Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS)

Faculty of Health Sciences News

News Access to surgical care limited in peri-urban areas A new study by UCT researchers found that access to high-quality surgical care remains restricted for residents of peri-urban areas, even though they live near a healthcare facility. 10 Feb 2026 - 5 min read

News

Access to surgical care limited in peri-urban areas

A new study by UCT researchers found that access to high-quality surgical care remains restricted for residents of peri-urban areas, even though they live near a healthcare facility. 10 Feb 2026 - 5 min read

On-campus sport and recreation activities benefit students with disabilities

Sport and recreational activities foster social inclusion and nurture a sense of belonging among students with disabilities.

10 Feb 2026 - 5 min read

Demystifying drug discovery

A UCT Summer School excursion unpacked the fascinating journey from molecule to medicine, blending storytelling, science and behind-the-scenes lab exploration.

09 Feb 2026 - 2 min read

Study reveals gaps in gender-affirming healthcare

Study findings show a large proportion of transgender and gender-diverse people in South Africa are unable to access adequate medical gender-affirming care.

05 Feb 2026 - 5 min read

The mechanics of ageing

During the annual Dr Stuart Saunders Memorial Lecture, Emer Prof Wieland Gevers explored how and why humans age.

30 Jan 2026 - 5 min read

Childhood exposure to violence carries long-term neurodevelopmental risks Research found that exposing children to violence leads to anxiety, heightened stress levels and aggressive and impulsive behaviour. 29 Jan 2026

In an age of incivility, humanity must lead UCT hosted the sixth annual Bongani Mayosi Memorial Lecture to honour and celebrate the late Prof Bongani Mayosi’s legacy. 28 Jan 2026

UCT prof joins call to strengthen Africa-led research, development Prof Jo-Ann Passmore has joined other Calestous Juma Science Leadership Fellows to author a research paper that highlights practical, Africa-led actions to strengthen health research and development ecosystems. 28 Jan 2026

Cultivating compassion in healthcare Dr Heidi Matisonn delivered a Summer School lecture on the importance of adopting compassion in the healthcare sector. 28 Jan 2026

TB harnesses part of immune defence system to cause infection Scientists from UCT have contributed to an international study that shed new light on why humans and animals are so susceptible to contracting tuberculosis. 26 Jan 2026

UCT’s HPALS – among top 10 sport science schools globally UCT’s Health through Physical Activity, Lifestyle and Sport (HPALS) has ranked 10th place on the Shanghai Sport Science Schools and Departments list. 13 Jan 2026

UCT scientist honoured for advancing equitable cancer research Renowned cancer scientist Prof Sharon Prince has been honoured with the 2025 A.G. Oettlé Memorial Award for her pioneering research, leadership and dedication to developing affordable cancer therapies in South Africa. 23 Dec 2025

Western Cape children face dual nutrition crisis UCT’s Emer Prof Marjanne Senekal has conducted research which found that young children face a double burden of malnutrition, with stunting and obesity occurring at worrying levels. 19 Dec 2025

Emergency Medicine lecturer Wesley Craig jumps in to save a life Emergency Medicine lecturer Wesley Craig applied his training in emergency care to rescue a patient who had gone into cardiac arrest at his gym. He recounts his experience and emphasises the importance of acting in spite of fear. 18 Dec 2025

Teaching the uncomfortable truths of women’s health Dr Chiv Gordon, head of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, is one of the recipients of the coveted Distinguished Teacher’s Award in 2025. 15 Dec 2025

A fond farewell to prof of the people Ahead of his retirement, UCT’s Faculty of Health Sciences held a farewell event in honour of Professor Leslie London on Tuesday, 9 December. 15 Dec 2025

Professor Dan Stein (1962–2025) The University of Cape Town (UCT) community and peers are deeply saddened by the passing of Professor Dan Stein. 12 Dec 2025

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