South Africans are living longer and surviving serious illnesses at higher rates, according to Discovery Health’s HealthTrend2026 report, but growing levels of chronic and multiple conditions are driving higher healthcare demand and concentrated medical spending.
South Africans are living longer and experiencing improved survival rates for serious illnesses, according to Discovery Health data, but the gains are accompanied by a growing burden of long-term and complex medical conditions.
Discovery Health says mortality among members of the Discovery Health Medical Scheme has declined by 5.6% over the past decade, reflecting earlier diagnosis, improved treatment pathways and expanded access to healthcare services.
The findings are outlined in the HealthTrend2026 report, which is based on more than 60 million life-years of clinical, lifestyle and behavioural data from over 2.7 million members.
Despite improved longevity, the report shows that more than half of members with chronic conditions are now living with multiple illnesses, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer and mental health conditions. The number of members managing three or more chronic conditions has also more than doubled.
