Author: Gerald Ng

Thrush, medically known as Candidiasis, is a common infection caused by the overgrowth of a yeast-like fungus called Candida. This fungus is naturally present on our skin, mouth, and digestive system but can cause trouble when it grows uncontrolled.

While the period of gestation is one of anticipation and joy, it also carries potential risks to the developing fetus. A myriad of factors can influence fetal health, leading to various conditions that could affect the baby’s growth and development.  Here are some medical conditions, explained in greater detail, directly impact the fetus during pregnancy.

Mandopop diva Coco Lee was born into an ordeal that continued to be a part of her life until her last breath. She has been plagued with medical issues throughout her life. Medical misalignment during birth led to her left leg being dislocated, leaving her with a permanent limp. Despite warnings from doctors, Coco refused to let her medical condition deter her passion for performing and dancing.

Singapore is moving towards a healthcare strategy that focuses on providing preventive solutions in a bid to combat an ageing population. 

In a remarkable testament to the power of strategic healthcare planning, a 76-year-old Singaporean today enjoys a health status similar to an average 65-year-old globally, bested only by Japan. This remarkable achievement comes from three decades of meticulous planning and investments in healthcare, with a blueprint laid out in the White Paper on Affordable Healthcare in 1993.

In an unprecedented move, Moderna, a biotech firm based in Massachusetts, USA, has struck a landmark deal with Chinese officials to research, develop and manufacture messenger RNA (mRNA) medicines in China. 

Polio, also known as poliomyelitis, is a highly infectious viral disease that primarily affects young children. Once a widespread and feared illness, polio has been largely eliminated in most parts of the world, thanks to extensive vaccination efforts. This article will explore the history, causes, symptoms, and treatments for polio, as well as the ongoing global efforts to eradicate the disease.

Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD), commonly known as monkey fever, is a tick-borne viral disease primarily found in South Asia, particularly in parts of India. 

Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC) in Abu Dhabi, one of the UAE’s key hospitals, has ceased the use of Desflurane, a widely employed anaesthetic but also a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. This bold move aligns with the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi’s healthcare sustainability goals and represents a significant stride in the healthcare sector’s contribution towards environmental conservation. Desflurane, commonly used during surgeries to induce anaesthesia, has been identified as an environmental culprit. It contributes substantially to greenhouse gases, trapping heat and aggravating global warming.

In recent years, advancements in technology have made a significant impact on the field of sports medicine, offering innovative solutions for the treatment of sports injuries. These groundbreaking technologies are transforming the way athletes and medical professionals approach injury prevention, diagnosis, and recovery. 

Medical Channel Asia presents the weekly Asian medical news bulletin, bringing you essential healthcare news from across the region. This week’s Medical Health Bulletin will discuss preventive healthcare in Singapore, Tuberculosis in the Philippines and HFMD in Vietnam.