Published: 14 April 2025

Fresh data from Discovery Life’s latest claims report reveals a disturbing shift in mortality trends among South Africans.

Suicide has now overtaken motor vehicle accidents as the leading cause of unnatural death among the insurer’s clients.

In its 2024 claims analysis, the company reported paying out R11.5 billion in total claims, with an impressive payout rate exceeding 99%. Less than 1% of claims were declined due to issues such as non-disclosure or fraud.

Of the total amount, R6.85 billion went to individual life insurance claims, R2.4 billion to shared-value payments, and R2.3 billion to Group Risk claims. Interestingly, a significant proportion—over 60%—was paid to living clients in the form of benefits and rewards, far exceeding the industry norm of 20 30%.

Despite these strong service figures, Discovery Life raised concerns about the growing impact of unnatural causes of death. 

This trend is particularly evident in older age groups. Among clients aged over 50, suicide-related claims surged by 62% in 2024 compared to the previous five-year average. In the 41–60 age bracket, suicide accounted for 45% of all unnatural death claims.

Of further concern, 63% of individuals who died by suicide and were members of the Discovery Health Medical Scheme had previously been diagnosed with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder.

Quoted in BusTech, Discovery Life’s Chief Medical Officer described the pattern as deeply troubling, noting that many of these deaths could have been prevented with adequate access to mental healthcare and support.


This article was compiled with information obtained from various sources including:

10 Apr 2025 | BusTech | Discovery sounds the alarm on growing health crisis in South Africa

10 April 2025 | Moneyweb | Discovery sees spike in claims due to suicide for over 50-year-olds



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