A woman’s death not only cripples her family, but affects her whole community.
This is the belief of Gqeberha specialist Prof Mfundo Mabenge, leading him to pursue extensive research on the human papillomavirus vaccine and cervical cancer.
The Dora Nginza Hospital chief specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology has also done research on cervical cancer in women with HIV and the outcomes of women with vulvar cancer, a type of cancer found on the outer surface of female genitals.
However, Mabenge says, saving women’s lives is a public health issue.
“The death of a woman in a family does not just cripple that family, it also affects the entire community and the future of children,” he said.
Mabenge recently received an academic fellowship award from the Discovery Foundation to complete his doctorate at the University of the Witwatersrand.
For his doctorate, he will explore adverse pregnancy outcomes at Dora Nginza, and evaluate the contributing factors to these outcomes and assess potential strategies to reduce risks.
Thereafter, he wants to complete a master’s degree in theology.
“I often deal with dying patients and their family members,” he said.
“These studies, together with a graduate certificate in ministry, will help me provide some spiritual guidance to those in my care, should they need it.”
Mabenge feels strongly about the promotion of women’s health issues in the Eastern Cape, where he believes there is a tremendous need for gynaecological oncology services, especially in the rural areas where it is difficult for women to access healthcare services.
He does regular outreach work and screenings in the area.
At Dora Nginza, Mabenge trains specialists in obstetrics and advanced midwifery.
“I feel it is very important to train and empower others to carry on the work when I am no longer there,” he said.
Born and raised in New Brighton, Mabenge is the youngest of 10 siblings.
His parents emphasised the value of education.
“My mother never had the opportunity to attend school and my father completed [grade 5].
“My mother sold vegetables and old clothes that she had collected.
“My parents knew the value of education and that it was the only way out of poverty.
“They made sure we stayed in school and, today, seven of my siblings are also graduates.
“My mother even found a way to pay for my first year as a BSc student at the University of the Western Cape, after which I managed to get a bursary,” Mabenge said.
He majored in biochemistry and physiology and then went to Medunsa to study medicine.
He completed his MBChB degree in 1995 with a distinction in paediatrics and general surgery.
He then specialised in obstetrics and gynaecology and completed a master of medicine degree at the University of Pretoria in 2007.
He also boasts an MA in health and welfare management, as well as a master’s degree in labour law.
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