The rising singer from Lekompho, Female June, shared a personal story about a sudden health condition that forced her to put her rapidly developing music career on hold.
Female June, whose real name is Mmanoko Francina Seabela, lives in Ga Matlala, near Polokwane, in the Limpopo region. At 33 years old, she described herself as a shy and respectful child who preferred singing to other games. Music became her means of self-expression and her main passion.
She recalls finding quiet corners to sing, imitating stars and composing verses in her mind. It was in those moments that she realized her voice was a calling. Among her musical inspirations are Shandesh, Candy Tsa Mandebele, Kharishma, Fiesta Black, and Makhadzi. Her mother provided her with special support, becoming a pillar in her pursuit of dreams.
June's career began in 2020 when she started recording songs with local producer STANZA and uploading them to SoundCloud. The breakthrough occurred earlier this year after a local supporter, Lekau Maffa, learned about opportunities for new artists during an interview on Thobela FM. During this interview, The Billionaires were mentioned, who advised aspiring musicians to send their music to Charlie Communications.
After connecting with Charlie Communications, June transitioned from an independent dreamer to a professional artist. The label released her debut single 'Chomi Tsaka' on streaming platforms in June. The song quickly gained popularity in Limpopo, playing on radio stations around Polokwane and in taxis. June noted that the release coincided with her birthday month, making it even more special. She considers Lekompho the genre meant for her work, as it aligns with her soul and allows her to tell emotional stories.
As her career was gaining momentum, everything changed. June was preparing to record a new single scheduled for September when she woke up with severe pain and swelling in one of her legs. She recounted feeling inflammation and uncertainty in her lower body on the day of the upcoming EP recording, and her leg was painful and swollen, preventing her from standing.
This incident happened completely unexpectedly. She immediately sought medical attention, but doctors have not yet been able to determine the cause of the swelling. This uncertainty has been one of the hardest parts of the experience. The artist admitted that stepping away from music was emotionally difficult, especially since she was supposed to go to the studio that day to record new material slated for release in September.
Her main priority now is recovery. She is focusing on her health, making decisions gradually, and hoping for a full recovery. June emphasized that the immense support from fans helped her maintain hope during this difficult period. However, she also revealed that the illness created a financial burden, making it difficult to cover medical expenses. She stated that she previously planned to provide for her family through music, but now cannot even cover her own medical needs, and any help would be greatly appreciated. Since a diagnosis has not yet been made, she is asking for any financial or practical support from well-wishers to cover these medical costs. Despite this setback, June remains optimistic about a swift return to her beloved profession. Her song catalog includes 'Chomi Tsaka', 'Ba Porofeta', 'Bjala Ke a Bonwa', 'Pase Nkemele', 'Aowa Ke Maaka' featuring Sparker, as well as 'Donation' and 'Etlang' featuring Kytonic.
Italian researchers conducted a retrospective observational study and concluded that positron emission tomography combined with computed tomography (PET/CT) is a highly accurate tool for diagnosing fever of unknown origin, aiding in making informed clinical decisions. These findings were published in The Journal of Nuclear Medicine.
Fever of unknown origin is characterized by a persistent elevation of body temperature as the sole observed symptom, where standard examination methods, such as blood and urine tests, X-rays, or ultrasound, fail to establish an exact diagnosis. The causes of this condition are extremely diverse and can include oncological diseases, systemic inflammatory processes, or various infections, making diagnosis a complex task because there is no single protocol for these cases.
The PET/CT method is based on the difference in increased metabolism in foci of inflammation and tumors. A nutrient substance, most often glucose, is administered and labeled with a radioactive atom. Upon decay, this isotope emits positrons, which accumulate predominantly in pathological areas. The tomograph records this positron radiation and integrates the obtained information with CT data to accurately determine the source location. Although this method is often used in oncology, in this study it was applied to diagnose fever of unknown origin.
Domenico Albano from the University of Brescia and his team analyzed data from 929 patients aged 18 to 88 years (mean age—60.4 years, including 548 men). All these patients underwent PET/CT using 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose across 12 Italian medical centers. The final diagnosis for each patient was established after a comprehensive analysis of laboratory and imaging data, as well as histological or pathological autopsy reports, and after observation for at least six months. Diagnoses were classified into four groups: infections, non-infectious inflammatory diseases, oncological diseases, and cases where the cause remained unknown.
According to the results, infections accounted for the final diagnosis in 36% of cases, non-infectious inflammatory diseases in 30%, oncological diseases in 11%, and 23% of diagnoses could not be established. Among the identified infections, pneumonia, spondylodiscitis, endocarditis, abscess, and vascular shunt inflammation were most common, along with bone and joint infections. In the group of non-infectious inflammations, large vessel vasculitis and spondyloarthropathies predominated, while among oncological diseases, lymphoma and lung cancer were recorded. False negative results were also noted: for infections, this included endocarditis and urinary tract infections; for non-infectious inflammations—vasculitis, encephalitis, and pericarditis; for oncological diseases—leukemia, gastrointestinal cancer, and apudoma.
The analysis showed that PET/CT results were truly positive in 56% of cases, truly negative in 19%, false positive in 3%, and false negative in 22%. The sensitivity of the method reached 72%, and specificity was 85%. Positive predictive value was 94%, and negative predictive value was 47%. The overall diagnostic value of the method was estimated at 75%. Prognostic factors for a positive result included elevated C-reactive protein levels, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, presence of fever during the procedure, and a short period of antibiotic use. In conclusion, PET/CT directly influenced patient management in 73% of cases, and in the remaining cases, it helped select either additional non-invasive tests or a watchful waiting strategy; only in 16 truly positive cases did the method not change the treatment tactics.
Aspen Pharmacare Holdings has entered into a licensing agreement to obtain rights to a drug that is currently in the formal approval stage. This drug potentially could become a long-acting, once-daily oral agent for the prevention of HIV-1.
According to information published on Friday, the agreement was reached with MSD, a subsidiary of the American company Merck & Co. This partnership grants Aspen the rights to develop, manufacture, and commercialize the drug MK-8527, known as alimatravir. This investigational, late-stage, long-acting, once-daily oral agent is intended for the prevention of HIV-1.
The Minister of Health of South Africa, Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi, stated in his announcement that South Africa faces one of the highest burdens of HIV in the world. He emphasized that any new agent that removes barriers to prevention is of great importance. He noted that the possibility of taking the drug once a month, especially with local production through the MSD and Aspen partnership, could improve adherence to treatment compared to daily intake, which is particularly relevant for young women and adolescent girls who are disproportionately affected by new infections.
Stephen Saad, CEO of Aspen Group, noted that this agreement is an important step in fulfilling the company's commitment to increasing the accessibility of new medicines in Africa and strengthening local pharmaceutical manufacturing capabilities. Saad added that through collaboration with MSD, the company has a chance to support the future supply of an innovative HIV prevention agent while simultaneously bolstering local pharmaceutical production and the resilience of the healthcare system across the continent.
Under the terms of the agreement, Aspen will receive a technical package from MSD, along with licensing rights covering 129 countries, including all African nations. Despite significant progress, South Africa continues to register one of the highest global numbers of new HIV cases. Aspen's rights extend to both the public and private healthcare sectors. Alimatravir is an investigational drug currently being evaluated in Phase III clinical trials for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) against HIV.
Saad reported that although the product is in the clinical trial stage and has not yet received regulatory approval, the results obtained so far are encouraging, and the group awaits the Phase III outcomes. He clarified that if approved, alimatravir could become the first once-monthly oral HIV prevention agent available, offering a new dosing approach for PrEP. A monthly pill can simplify access and reduce barriers to taking the medication, especially in regions with limited access to medical personnel.
Long-acting HIV prevention technologies are increasingly recognized as vital tools in reducing new infections and supporting global efforts to significantly curb HIV transmission in the coming decade. The current Phase III clinical trial program includes sites in many countries, with South Africa accounting for the largest portion of this study. While HIV treatment products have historically been concentrated in public programs, there is an expected growing need for preventive solutions in the private sector, opening opportunities to expand access to patients who could benefit from PrEP.
Saad noted that following favorable Phase III results, regulatory submissions will be made to ensure the prompt availability of this HIV prevention agent in licensed territories. Dr. Motsoaledi called this an important milestone in joint efforts to eradicate the HIV epidemic in South Africa and globally, especially after the government recently launched another breakthrough drug—Lenacapavir—used for both treating and preventing HIV-1. The Minister also stressed the country's commitment to expanding the arsenal of HIV prevention tools, focusing on convenience, acceptability, and effectiveness for diverse and vulnerable populations, including adolescents and young women. Furthermore, the minister added that local production strengthens health security, ensuring that South Africans will not be left waiting in the global supply queue if the product proves safe and effective.
Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau stated that this partnership demonstrates the value of strategic cooperation in developing South Africa's industrial capacity and addressing one of the most pressing public health challenges. Director of the African Centre for Disease Control, Dr. Jean Kasaya, noted that for decades Africa has participated in clinical trials and manufacturing, with much of the economic value being created outside the continent, and that this agreement signals a different future.
Every year, hundreds of thousands of patients travel to India not for sights or beaches, but to receive medical care. What initially stemmed from the need of patients from neighboring countries for inexpensive treatment has transformed into a broader ecosystem of medical tourism.
Industry estimates, cited in the Economic Survey 2025–26 and by the government, project that India's medical tourism market will grow from approximately $8.7 billion in 2025 to $16.2 billion by 2030. During the same period, the global medical tourism market is forecast to grow from $115.6 billion in 2022 to $286.1 billion by 2030. Furthermore, India's wider healthcare market is expected to grow by 10–12 percent annually, reaching nearly 12 trillion rupees by the 2030 fiscal year, while private hospital chains plan to increase capacity from about 70,000 to over 108,000 beds.
According to the Medical Tourism Index 2020–21, India ranks 10th out of 46 global destinations for medical tourism.
Medical tourism is defined as patients traveling outside their own country to receive planned treatment. While the low cost of procedures remains a significant factor, patients also consider waiting times, access to specialists, quality of care, language support, and post-treatment follow-up when choosing a destination.
Demand in India covers a wide range of services: from cardiac surgery and joint replacement to cancer treatment, fertility, organ transplantation, dentistry, cosmetic surgery, and neurological interventions. Improvements in digital consultations and simplified access to treatment information have also made it easier for patients to compare hospitals and plan their treatment before traveling.
Under the Federal Budget for 2026–27, it has been proposed to develop five Regional Medical Centers in collaboration with government bodies and the private sector. These centers will integrate medical, educational, and research institutions, as well as AYUSH centers and specialized centers to promote medical tourism.
To facilitate such trips, India provides e-Medical and e-Medical Attendant visas, which are extended to citizens of 172 countries, as well as new e-AYUSH visa categories for those seeking traditional Indian systems of medicine. The government is also modernizing the Heal in India (Medical Value Travel) portal into a unified platform for finding hospitals, planning treatment, booking, payment, and postoperative care, and has offered airport concierge services to assist international patients upon arrival.
According to the government, as of 2026, India has 69,364 hospitals, including 43,486 private and 25,778 public institutions, along with about 1.2 million registered doctors and over 1,299 NABH-accredited hospitals. Many hospitals also hold Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation, with most located in Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, and Hyderabad.
For patients traveling, accessibility is often just part of the overall picture. In 2025, 507,244 foreign patients arrived in India for treatment, accounting for about 5.5 percent of the total number of foreign tourists that year, compared to approximately 112,000 in 2009. Bangladesh was the largest source of arrivals with 325,127 guests, followed by Iraq (30,989), Uzbekistan (13,699), Somalia (11,506), Turkmenistan (10,231), Oman (9,738), and Kenya (9,357).
Patients cite various arguments in favor of choosing India. American traveler Charlie Evans, who underwent treatment for seasonal flu and ear pain at a hospital in Rishikesh, noted his initial hesitation about seeking medical help in a foreign country. However, he reported being met by English-speaking staff, having virtually zero waiting time, and receiving treatment using equipment comparable to what he saw in the United States.
Evans stated that his consultation, medication, and treatment cost approximately $10–$20, compared to an estimated $150 for a similar visit in the US. He said, 'I received better treatment in Rishikesh—faster and cheaper than ever at home.' Beyond the lower cost, Evans emphasized the professionalism of the medical staff. He added that the doctor who treated him could easily practice in the US, and that healthcare in India seemed less profit-driven and more focused on patient care.
This experience reflects a broader trend where patients increasingly weigh convenience and quality against cost. American content creator Kristen Fisher, residing in India, also highly praised the country's healthcare system in her social media videos and interviews with Times Now. Although she believes the US offers a better overall hospital experience, she prefers India's healthcare system because it is 'simple, accessible, and fast' and offers 'quality treatment.' Fisher noted, 'I like that in Indian healthcare you pay before treatment. And after you leave the hospital, you never have to pay or worry about anything else.' She contrasted this with the US, where patients can receive bills 'months after' treatment.
She also commended the transparency of healthcare costs in India, stating, 'The cost is clearly defined before treatment. This allows people to look for a good deal according to their budget.' In a series of social media posts, Fisher also highlighted the accessibility of medical services in India, noting that patients can often see a doctor the same day without an appointment, unlike in the US where consultations can take weeks. She described Indian doctors as 'much less rushed and more attentive to your needs' and recounted treating a thumb injury at a Delhi hospital in just 45 minutes for 50 rupees.
The cost advantage is evident even for routine procedures. Sedg, living in Utrecht, Netherlands, says she plans her dental visits around trips to India. She notes, 'A 30-minute teeth cleaning costs about €185 near my home. In Lucknow, I pay about 3000 rupees for the same treatment.' Aditya Oza, CEO of CureMeAbroad, which connects international patients with accredited hospitals, believes India is beginning to attract patients who previously chose destinations like Turkey and Thailand. He gave an example where two people who had previously traveled to Turkey for treatment chose India for their last procedure. 'Patients who have already been through it once and know what to look for are increasingly choosing India specifically. There is accreditation, specialist experience, and the cost gap is often the biggest among all destinations,' he said. 'What has changed is that patients now have a way to check all this beforehand instead of guessing.'
Hospital leaders believe that India's competitiveness will increasingly depend on the overall patient experience, not just on costs. Dr. Sonia Lal Gupta, co-managing director of Metro Group of Hospitals, stated that accreditation, transparent clinical outcomes, and accountability remain important distinguishing features. She added, 'What we have not yet fully built is the trust and experience associated with this care, and that is where the real opportunity lies.' She emphasized that support must extend beyond the hospital stay, covering everything from the initial inquiry and medical visa assistance to treatment, recovery, and follow-up consultations after patients return home.
Meanwhile, Dr. Charan Shivraj Patil, founder and chairman of SPARSH Group of Hospitals, reported that providers are investing in specialized services for international patients to make treatment smoother from the initial inquiry to recovery. This includes pre-arrival teleconsultations, medical visa assistance, transparent treatment plans with cost estimates, airport transfers, accommodation support, language translation, culturally appropriate food, and post-treatment follow-up. He concluded, 'As the expectations of international patients continue to evolve, the focus remains on delivering world-class clinical outcomes complemented by personalized, culturally sensitive, and compassionate care.'
Content maker Ruben Charles from the UK, based in Guwahati, was impressed by the convenience and professionalism of his medical experience in India after using a home medical service for blood tests. He noted that the healthcare worker assisting him was knowledgeable, spoke fluent English, and took time to explain the procedure in detail. Charles stated, 'The service was excellent. It was very, very fast. It came right to my home.' He believes that the combination of quality, affordability, and convenience makes India an attractive destination for medical tourism, especially for international patients who can afford private medical care.
On the other hand, Jai Prakash, founder of the medical tourism consultancy Health Voyage Global, noted that patients often turn to India after failing to receive a correct diagnosis. He stated, 'Many patients feel they can get the right diagnosis and treatment in India for a fraction of the cost they would pay elsewhere.' He added that Indian doctors work with advanced medical equipment and global treatment protocols, allowing them to offer high-quality care with shorter treatment durations and lower overall expenses.
Not all patients travel to India solely because of lower costs or better hospitals. For some, crossing borders also provides privacy. A resident of Delhi shared how his neighbor traveled to India from Nepal for infertility treatment because she faced social stigma and family pressure at home regarding fertility issues. Seeking help away from her community allowed her to undergo the procedure without intense scrutiny or judgment.
Despite the growing number of patients, hospitals note uneven access to healthcare across the country. Dr. Bharat S Modi, chairman of Welcare Hospital in Vadodara, noted that India attracts a steady stream of patients from neighboring countries such as Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan, as well as from Africa and parts of Central Asia. However, he believes the country has not yet realized its full potential in attracting patients from Europe, the US, and other developed markets.
Modi pointed out that international patients are drawn by India's competitive prices and medical experience, but much of the treatment remains concentrated in metropolitan areas, although second-tier centers can offer comparable quality at lower prices. Furthermore, he stressed that the medical visa application process remains a hurdle for foreign patients. He noted, 'Our experience has also shown that the government portal for issuing medical visas is unfriendly to the user,' adding that this 'disappoints a potential patient wishing to come to India for treatment.' He cited Marco Bellaro, an Italian living in Indonesia, who came to Vadodara for hip replacement surgery after finding a hospital online. Although Bellaro was initially concerned about hygiene standards and hospital infrastructure, Modi said these issues were resolved during consultations. The surgery was successful, but the medical visa process proved burdensome, confirming that simplifying visa procedures and strengthening global branding could help India attract more foreign patients.
Dr. Alok Hullar, CEO of RJ Corp Healthcare, also emphasized the need to simplify medical visa procedures, increase the number of internationally accredited hospitals, improve coordination between airports and hospitals, and expand multilingual support as key priorities.
