Your privacy matters to us

1. Introduction

HealthySouthAfrica.com (“we”, “our”, “us”) is committed to protecting your privacy. This policy describes how we handle personal information when you visit our website, subscribe to our newsletter, or interact with our content.

We comply with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) of South Africa and other applicable data protection laws. By using our site, you consent to the practices described in this policy.

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2. Information we collect

We only collect information that helps us improve your experience. This includes:

• Information you give us: When you subscribe to our newsletter, email us, or leave a comment, we may collect your name, email address, and any message content.
• Automatic technical data: Like most websites, we collect your IP address, browser type, device information, and pages visited — via cookies and similar technologies.
• Health-related interests: If you interact with our IBS articles or surveys, we may note your general areas of interest. We never ask for detailed medical records or sensitive health data unless you explicitly provide it.

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3. How we use your information

We use your information for the following purposes:

• To respond to your emails and feedback.
• To send you newsletters or updates — only if you have subscribed.
• To analyse site traffic and improve our articles and user experience.
• To ensure the security and proper functioning of our website.
• To comply with legal obligations.

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4. Cookies & tracking technologies

We use cookies (small text files stored on your device) to remember your preferences, understand how you interact with our site, and measure the effectiveness of our content.

You can control cookies through your browser settings. Disabling cookies may affect some features of the site.

We use the following types of cookies:

• Essential cookies: Required for the site to function properly.
• Analytics cookies: Help us understand which articles are most helpful.
• Preference cookies: Remember your settings (e.g., dark mode).

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5. Sharing your data

We do not sell, rent, or trade your personal information. We may share data with:

• Service providers: Trusted third parties who help us operate our website (e.g., hosting, email delivery). They are contractually bound to keep your data confidential.
• Legal requirements: If required by law, court order, or to protect our rights.

Any third-party service providers we use are POPIA-compliant or operate under equivalent standards.

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6. Data security

We implement appropriate technical and organisational measures to protect your personal information against unauthorised access, loss, or misuse. These include encryption, firewalls, and regular security reviews.

However, no method of transmission over the internet is 100% secure. While we strive to protect your data, we cannot guarantee absolute security.

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7. Your rights

Under POPIA, you have the right to:

• Access the personal information we hold about you.
• Request correction or deletion of your data.
• Object to processing of your data.
• Withdraw consent at any time (e.g., unsubscribe from emails).
• Lodge a complaint with the Information Regulator of South Africa.

To exercise any of these rights, please contact us.

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8. Children’s privacy

Our content is intended for adults. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 18. If you believe a child has provided us with personal data, please contact us so we can delete it.

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9. Changes to this policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Any changes will be posted on this page with a revised “Last updated” date. We encourage you to review this page periodically.

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10. Contact us

If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or how we handle your data, please reach out to us:

• [email protected]
• Johannesburg, South Africa