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Health For Mzansi

Losing a TV legend: Derek Watts dies of lung cancer

Mzansi is still in shock following the death of well-known TV anchor and presenter Derek Watts, who passed away after a battle with cancer. 'He was a profoundly decent and kind man. We will miss him,' said Carte Blanche's executive producer, John Webb

by Candice Khumalo
23rd August 2023
in Trending
Reading Time: 4 mins read
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Losing a TV legend: Derek Watts dies of lung cancer

TV legend Derek Watts passed away on Tuesday, 22 August 2023, following a battle with lung cancer. Photo: Supplied/Health For Mzansi

Derek Watts, well-known among South Africans for his role as anchor and presenter on Carte Blanche, passed away on Tuesday morning, 22 August, after a battle with cancer. 

Following the news of the iconic broadcaster’s death at Milpark Hospital in Johannesburg on his 75th birthday, tributes have been pouring in all over social media.

After being formally diagnosed with skin cancer in 2022, which then spread to his lungs, Carte Blanche announced in June this year that Watts would take a break from the camera and his duties to focus on his health.

In a clip shared on social media earlier this year, he shared that he was rushed to the ICU after a suspected stroke. He collapsed while with his family in Hoedspruit, Limpopo, and initially thought he’d had a stroke or heart attack, but he was diagnosed with a severe case of sepsis.

Dedicated and kind

Extending their condolences to the family, M-Net issued a statement: “We remember him as a dedicated investigative journalist and a long-standing presenter of Carte Blanche. His unwavering commitment to his work and his determination in the face of challenges was truly remarkable.”

Losing a TV legend: Derek Watts dies of lung cancer

Carte Blanche’s executive producer, John Webb, also issued a short statement saying, “We’re all deeply saddened by the passing of our colleague and patriarch. Having been with Carte Blanche from the beginning, Derek became synonymous with the show, and we acknowledge that it’s largely because of him that we have become who we are. Derek was a consummate professional and a dyed-in-the-wool television journalist. But, more importantly, he was a profoundly decent and kind man. We will miss him.”

Viewers, colleagues, and supporters of the veteran journalist whose face has been known in our living rooms for over 30 years continue to pay tribute to Watts on social media and express their shock and sadness.

Early diagnosis is key

According to the Cancer Association of South Africa, lung cancer ranks as the number one cause of cancer deaths in South Africa. It is also among the top three cancers in men and ranks seventh in women.

They also emphasise that early diagnosis is key, so it is important that people learn to recognise the signs and symptoms of this common but serious disease.

The Mayo Clinic underlines that people who smoke have the greatest risk of lung cancer, though lung cancer can also occur in people who have never smoked. The risk of lung cancer increases with the length of time and number of cigarettes you’ve smoked.

“Lung cancer typically doesn’t cause signs and symptoms in its earliest stages. Signs and symptoms of lung cancer typically occur when the disease is advanced.” 

Signs and symptoms of lung cancer may include:

  • A new cough that doesn’t go away
  • Coughing up blood, even a small amount
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest pain
  • Hoarseness
  • Losing weight without trying
  • Bone pain
  • Headache

Although there’s no sure way to prevent lung cancer, the Mayo Clinic recommends ways one can reduce their risk, such as not smoking or stopping smoking, avoiding second-hand smoke, testing their home for radon, avoiding carcinogens at work, choosing a healthy diet with a variety of fruits and vegetables, and exercising regularly.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8bylDbqMnVs

ALSO READ: Cheap cigarettes: Yes, they are even more harmful

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Tags: Cancersepsis
Candice Khumalo

Candice Khumalo

Hailing from a small town called Utrecht in KZN, Candice Khumalo’s love for health comes from a burning desire to bridge the gap between medical knowledge and accessible information for the everyday person. Her early steps into the world of health journalism has been full of excitement and remains to be, as she continues to write her stories, one healthy word at a time.

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HIV and initiation: Supporting boys through cultural rites Security fails as gangs target Eastern Cape clinics Dr Makanya blends spiritual healing with art therapy Canola oil: A heart-healthy choice for your kitchen No more pain! Tackle the torment of toothaches How smoking causes harmful bacteria in your mouth Discover delicious, healthy dishes that will make your heart sing Rediscover the joy of creamy pap with chicken livers