Lifestyle related conditions take a growing toll

‍Sanlam Risk and Savings paid out R6.62 billion in individual insurance claims in 2024 (up 9.24% from 2023), with a sharp increase in cancer claims, and cardiovascular claims showing an uptick compared to last year. The statistics point to shifting health challenges facing South Africans today – evidenced by increases in claims for illnesses like heart disease, certain cancers, musculoskeletal disorders, and mental health concerns.

Dr Marion Morkel, Chief Medical Officer at Sanlam, says the increase in claims for diseases which have a good prognosis when detected early puts the spotlight on the importance of regular screenings and checks. “The World Health Organisation recommends that annual health screenings and checks start in our 30s and we urge South Africans to prioritise these as part of their yearly routine.”

Key 2024 claims statistics:

• R6.62 billion paid across all claims, including R5.47 billion in death and funeral claims, R501.6 million in disability, loss of income and impairment claims, and R650.3 million in severe illness and injury claims.
• Over the past six years, the group has paid out more than R36 billion in claims, with 2024 being one of the highest annual claim totals aside from the Covid-19 peak in 2021.
• Cancer accounted for 54% of all severe illness claims, up 30% in the number of cancer claims from 2023.
• Prostate cancer claims in men doubled; breast cancer claims in women rose by 33%.
• Cardiovascular conditions made up 20% of death claims and 17% of disability claims.
• Sanlam paid more than 99% of all death claims – the highest claim being R36.2 million.

Dr Morkel says lifestyle diseases came through very strongly in the claims data, with cardiovascular and cancer being the top two causes of death and disability. “Cancer claims under the Severe Illness category rose by 30% year-on-year – prostate claims doubled in men and breast cancer claims rose 33% in women. These increases, while concerning, are partly the result of the knock-on effect of the Covid-19 pandemic with proactive screenings having been delayed for several years.”

This year’s data also shows a rise in stroke and musculoskeletal disorders among women, including women in the younger age groups (pre-50). Dr Morkel says that, while much of the data mirrors that of other countries, South Africa’s hypertension (high blood pressure) rate is among the highest in the world, an early indicator of heart disease and stroke. She stresses the need for early detection of cancer and heart disease, “Regular screenings and self-checks – especially for breast cancer – are essential. For heart health, know your numbers: blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose and BMI. And once you reach your mid-40s to early 50s, make regular check-ups a priority.”

Further 2024 insights:

• Disability claims skewed male, with 60% filed for men, compared to 40% for women.

• Sickness income claims had a higher representation of female clients (61% female vs 39% male), with 20% of total claims for women being pregnancy- and childbirth-

related.

• Severe illness claims were relatively gender-balanced (52% female, 48% male), reinforcing the universal health risks across both genders.

• Claims were the highest paid in a single year, except for the Covid-19 peak payouts in 2021.

Rhoderic Nel, Sanlam Risk and Savings Chief Executive said: “Currently about 24% of all living benefit claims are from clients younger than 35 years old, with increases being seen in income protection claims (up from 15% in 2022 to around 25% in 2024). It’s a sobering reminder that life-changing illness can strike at any age. Being financially prepared isn’t something to delay – it’s something to start now.” He said, “Every claim we pay is a promise kept. Behind each one is more than a name or

contract number, it’s a family, a story, a future changed. That’s why our claims’ philosophy is rooted in fairness and compassion. People need support quickly so we’re constantly striving to reduce the time it takes to settle claims.”

As risks evolve and pressures grow, Sanlam says its data underscores the importance of building financial resilience. “This isn’t just about payouts,” said Nel. “It’s about helping people stay on their feet when life takes an unexpected turn.”