Sundaymail Editor
SINCE the beginning of the year, the Premier Service Medical Aid Society (PSMAS) has taken its Premier Lifestyle programme to several parts of the country, offering free wellness screenings to members. The services include checks for blood pressure, blood glucose and body mass index (BMI) and screenings for breast, cervical and prostate cancers, among other diseases.
The turnout has been inspiring, but the real story lies in the lives impacted. These experiences emphasise a universal truth: Preventive health screenings are more than just a service — they are a lifeline.
Below are extracts from interviews with some of the beneficiaries:
“I assumed I was fine until the screening results told me otherwise,” said Yeukai Nzuma, a PSMAS member from Harare, who stressed how the screenings served as a wake-up call.
“It made me aware of invisible health issues I never knew existed.”
Like many, she discovered elevated blood sugar and BMI levels, prompting immediate lifestyle changes.
Lazarus Sithole, screened for prostate cancer, emphasised the importance of the outreach in educating him about long-term health maintenance.
“Early detection means treatment before the disease spreads,” he said.
These stories are not isolated.
Screenings uncover hidden risks, empowering members to act before conditions escalate. As Gilmore Taderera from Marondera noted, “You cannot manage what you are not aware of.”
Why screenings matter
Non-communicable diseases such as hypertension, diabetes and cancer often develop silently. By the time symptoms appear, treatment becomes costlier and less effective.
Consider this:
The World Health Organisation states that 99 percent of cervical cancer deaths are preventable with early detection.
80 percent of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes, can be avoided through lifestyle adjustments.
PSMAS screenings bridge this critical gap. Members have gained insights into BMI, dietary needs and exercise plans. Bonface Ntonga of Makoni in Chitungwiza shared: “I am now informed about choices that could save my life.”
PSMAS: Your partner in proactive health
PSMAS’ commitment to health shines through its holistic approach. In addition to physical checks, mental health and heart assessments — a rarity in standard care — were also included.
Tamika Zivuvu from Chivhu praised the programme, saying: “The range of screenings shows PSMAS’ dedication to our well-being. The services were excellent and enlightening.”
For many, these events were transformative. One participant attended after seeing a Facebook post that was motivated by the increasing number of cancer-related deaths.”Early detection saved me. It can save others too,” said the participant.
A call to action: Don’t wait for symptoms
To current PSMAS members, it is important to:
Act now. Schedule your next screening and do not assume you are “fine”.
Spread the word. Encourage family members and friends to prioritise regular check-ups.
To those without medical aid, there is need to join PSMAS today. Access life-saving screenings and become part of a community committed to your health.
As one member said, “Prolong your life — get screened.”
For feedback or clarification regarding the information shared, email [email protected]
Visit the PSMAS website or download the PSMAS 24/7 mobile app from Google Play or the App Store to find a provider near you or WhatsApp 0783183530 for assistance.
Bongani Ndlovu
Online Reporter