PICTURE: PEXELS/ PERSON SMOKING
A single gummy, vape or social smoke might not seem like a big deal, but failing to disclose it to your life insurer could impact your insurance cover.
Whether it’s the occasional vape, a cannabis gummy before bed, or social smoking on weekends, many underestimate the impact these habits can have on insurance coverage.
According to Dr Friedel Kerchhoff, Medical Officer at Sanlam, this growing trend of non-disclosure can result in devastating consequences for policyholders and their families.
“People often think of insurance as something you ‘set and forget’ – but it hinges on the principle of full disclosure,” says Dr Kerchhoff. “If you use tobacco, vape, or consume CBD or THC products, that information isn’t optional. It’s material to how your risk is assessed and priced. Whether you’re using them once a year or once a week, failing to tell your insurer could compromise your claim.”
CBD, THC, and Why You Need to Disclose Them
South Africa’s gummy market, including CBD gummies, was worth USD 48.8 million in 2023 and is expected to reach USD 122.4 million by 2030. The broader CBD market, which also includes tinctures and capsules, is expected to more than double over the same period.
More people in South Africa are using cannabis-based products as part of their wellness routines, from CBD gummies to help with sleep or anxiety, to THC edibles used recreationally. CBD (Cannabidiol) doesn’t make you feel “high” and is often used for health reasons. THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) is the part of cannabis that causes a high. Even though these products are legal and easy to get, they still count as cannabis use – and that’s something your insurer needs to know.
“Even low-dose CBD edibles can affect how we assess your risk,” says Dr Friedel Kerchhoff, Medical Officer at Sanlam. “It’s not about how often you use them – it’s about being upfront that you do.” South African insurance law says you must share any information that might affect your insurer’s decision, even if you only use these products now and then. If you don’t disclose this and a claim is made, it could cause delays, lead to a higher premium, or even result in the claim being declined.
What’s at Stake
- Kerchhoff says that misrepresenting or omitting your smoking or cannabis use can lead to:
- Higher risk categorisation once discovered.
- Delayed or denied claims, especially during the contestability period.
- Premium hikes or policy cancellation.
- Legal disputes that place additional stress on grieving families.
Cannabis and vaping use, including products marketed as “wellness” or “natural”, may prompt additional medical tests and more restrictive policy terms. Even if you only use these substances occasionally, it’s better to err on the side of caution. “When in doubt – disclose,” says Dr Kerchhoff. “It’s about having the confidence that your family is protected when it matters most.”
World No Tobacco Day: A Time to Rethink Risk
This World No Tobacco Day, Sanlam is spotlighting not only the health risks of smoking, cannabis and vaping, but the lesser-known financial vulnerabilities they create when not disclosing these habits when taking out life insurance. It’s a reminder that honesty up front is the best safeguard later.
“If you’re serious about protecting your loved ones, the most important thing you can do is be honest,” concludes Dr Kerchhoff. “It may cost a little more now, but it could save everything in the long run.”
Also see: World No Tobacco Day: Why saying no to smoking still matters
