Coeliac disease is caused by an abnormal immune system reaction to the protein gluten, which is found in foods such as bread, pasta, cereals and biscuits. If you have celiac disease, eating gluten triggers an immune response in your small intestine. Over time, this reaction damages your small intestine’s lining and prevents it from absorbing some nutrients (malabsorption)
Some of the factors associated with an increased risk of developing this disease are outlined below.
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Family history
Celiac disease is a genetic disease that runs in families. If you have a parent or sibling with coeliac disease your risk of developing the condition is about 10 times higher than someone without a family history. Coeliac disease is strongly associated with the presence of certain genes called HLA DQ2 and HLA DQ8. Either one or both genes are present in almost every person with coeliac disease.
These genes are very common in people in Australia. Around 56% of the population carries either one or both genes. This suggests there is a further trigger needed for coeliac disease to develop.
Environmental factors
Environmental factors may trigger coeliac disease at any age in people who carry the genes for the disease. Factors thought to play a role include:
- a previous gastrointestinal infection (such as a rotavirus infection), or
- a person’s diet during early childhood.
Other health conditions
Health conditions associated with an increased risk of developing coeliac disease include:
- type 1 diabetes
- ulcerative colitis
- neurological disorders such as epilepsy
- thyroid disease
- Down syndrome
- Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
- Addison’s disease
- Down syndrome
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Turner syndrome (a condition in which a female is missing an X chromosome)
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Autoimmune hepatitis
- Sjogren’s syndrome
- Idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy
- IgA nephropathy
- Lupus
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Chronic pancreatitis
- Psoriasis
- Scleroderma
- Williams syndrome
- Primary biliary cirrhosis
- Lactose intolerance
- Intestinal lymphoma
- Intestinal cancer
It’s worth noting that, coeliac disease can be triggered by other factors, such as viral infections, pregnancy, childbirth, and certain medications.
Additionally, it’s important to work with a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause of coeliac disease and develop an appropriate treatment plan, which is a strict gluten-free diet.
Student Loans in South Africa: How to Apply and What to Expect
For many young South Africans, accessing higher education is a dream that often comes with a financial challenge. Fortunately, several student loan optionsstrong> are available in South Africa to help fund university, college, or TVET studies. Whether you’re looking for a government loan like NSFAS or a private student loan from a bank, understanding the process is essential for success.
What Are Student Loans?
Student loans are a form of financial aid provided to eligible students to help cover tuition fees, books, accommodation, and other study-related expenses. In South Africa, these loans can come from government institutions like NSFAS or private banks such as Nedbank, Standard Bank, FNB, and Absa. Most loans offer repayment flexibility and low-interest options until you graduate.
Types of Student Loans in South Africa
- NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme): A government-funded loan/grant program for students from low-income households. Covers tuition, housing, transport, and meals.
- Bank Student Loans: Offered by most major banks. These are credit-based and require a guardian or parent as a co-signer.
- Private Loan Providers: Companies like Fundi offer educational loans covering various costs such as school fees, gadgets, and textbooks.
Requirements to Qualify for a Student Loan
Each provider has its own criteria, but most South African student loans require the following:
- Proof of South African citizenship or permanent residency
- Proof of registration or acceptance at a recognised tertiary institution
- Parent or guardian with a stable income to co-sign (for private loans)
- Completed application form with supporting documents (ID, proof of income, academic records)
How to Apply for a Student Loan
To apply for a student loan in South Africa, follow these steps:
- Identify your loan provider: Choose between NSFAS, a bank, or a private lender.
- Gather necessary documents: ID copies, academic transcripts, acceptance letters, and income statements.
- Complete the application form online or at a branch.
- Await approval: Some banks offer instant decisions, while NSFAS can take a few weeks.
- Receive disbursement: Funds are typically paid directly to the institution or your account, depending on the lender.
Loan Amounts and Repayment
The loan amount you can receive depends on your chosen lender and financial need:
- NSFAS: Covers full tuition, residence, books, and a personal allowance. The loan becomes a bursary if you pass all your courses.
- Banks: Can provide up to R120,000 or more annually, depending on tuition costs and credit history.
Repayment usually starts after graduation or once you start earning an income. Bank loans may require interest-only payments during your studies. NSFAS repayment only begins when you earn above a specific income threshold.
FAQs on Student Loans in South Africa
1. Can I apply for a student loan without a parent or guardian?
For government loans like NSFAS, yes. But most banks require a financially responsible co-signer, especially for students without an income.
2. Is NSFAS a loan or a bursary?
NSFAS starts as a loan, but it converts to a bursary if you meet academic performance requirements. This means you may not have to pay it back.
3. What is the interest rate on student loans?
Private banks offer competitive rates between 5% and 12%, depending on the applicant's credit profile. NSFAS charges a much lower interest rate, usually linked to inflation.
4. What happens if I fail my courses?
If you’re funded by NSFAS and fail, your loan won’t convert into a bursary, and you’ll need to repay the full amount. Banks may continue charging interest, and your co-signer may be held liable.
5. Can I use a student loan to pay for accommodation and laptops?
Yes. Both NSFAS and many bank student loans cover costs beyond tuition, including housing, meals, textbooks, and electronic devices like laptops or tablets.
Final Thoughts
Student loans in South Africa offer a much-needed financial lifeline to thousands of students every year. Whether you're applying through **NSFAS** or a private bank, ensure you understand the **terms, interest rates, and repayment conditions** before signing any agreement. Make informed decisions today to secure your academic and financial future tomorrow.