Author: Gerald Ng

The National University of Singapore (NUS) has established the Global Centre for Asian Women’s Health (GloW).  The inauguration was held on 10 November 2023 as part of GloW’s first Singapore Women’s Health Conference. The event was graced by Ms Indranee Rajah, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office. This initiative underscores the unique health challenges Asian women face, particularly during pregnancy and childbirth. Study Highlights Pregnancy Risks NUS Medicine’s recent studies indicate significant risks associated with excessive weight gain during pregnancy, including increased chances of premature death. Alarming Statistics Uncovered Research based on the Collaborative Perinatal Project (CPP) suggests a 9%…

Hematuria is when there is blood in your urine. It ranges from a faint colour change to a distinct red, demanding immediate attention. Hematuria is more of a signal than a condition itself—like a red flag waved by your body. It’s the presence of red blood cells in your urine, categorised as either gross hematuria, which is visible, or microscopic hematuria, only detectable under a microscope. Both types, even when stemming from harmless causes, are signs that warrant medical attention.

In a groundbreaking move, the Asia-Pacific region has introduced its first set of guidelines dedicated to managing X-Linked Hypophosphatemia (XLH), a rare genetic disorder affecting bone growth.  The consensus, spearheaded by an expert panel and endorsed by numerous societies, offers hope for better care. A core expert panel recently formulated the first evidence-based recommendations to optimise and standardise XLH care across the APAC region.  The panel comprised 15 pediatric and adult endocrinologists from nine Asia-Pacific (APAC) countries. The Journal of Bone and Mineral Research has published these recommendations. Learn More About X-Linked Hypophosphatemia (XLH)? X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) is a rare,…

In a notable development for the healthcare sector, Hilleman Laboratories has inaugurated a US$20 million vaccine production facility in Singapore.  This facility, located at Depot Road, is poised to play a crucial role in manufacturing and developing vaccines and biologics.

Vietnam’s Ministry of Health reports a total of 56 monkeypox cases as of October 31, with one death linked to immunosuppression. Ho Chi Minh City has the majority with 46 cases, and other cases are spread across several provinces. The median age of patients is 32. Most are male and many are co-infected with HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases.

A pancreatic tumour is an abnormal growth within the pancreas. This abnormal growth can be broadly classified into cystic tumour and solid tumour. Pancreatic cystic tumour, which contains mucin (sticky material), has the potential to turn into cancer. 

A hydrocele is a collection of fluid inside the scrotum of a male. This fluid surrounds the testis and is contained within a lining called tunica vaginalis.

The gallbladder, a small, pear-shaped organ beneath the liver, plays a crucial role in our digestive system. However, its health is often overlooked until discomfort and illness strike. In the second part of this series, we look at the diagnosis, treatment and prevention measures of gallbladder conditions with Dr Lee Ser Yee. Dr. Lee Ser Yee specialises in Hepatopancreatobiliary surgery (HPB), Liver transplantation, and minimally invasive Surgery (MIS). His area of expertise lies in minimally surgery to treat liver, gallbladder and pancreas diseases.

Up to 50% of women aged between 50 and 79 face the discomfort of Pelvic Organ Proplapse (POP), yet almost half remain silent due to the stigma surrounding such intimate conditions. 

Medical Channel Asia presents the weekly Asian medical news bulletin, bringing you essential healthcare news from across the region. This week’s bulletin covers expired vaccines in Malaysia, illegal drugs in Singapore and monkeypox in Indonesia.