Author: Gerald Ng

cropped Circle

Gerald Ng is a previous editor for Medical Channel Asia. Writing has always been his first love and he has more than a decade of journalism experience after falling in love with reading the newspapers daily growing up in Singapore. His works and interviews have appeared in various media publications including Yahoo!, Straits Times and Channel NewsAsia.

In a concerning development for public health, Japan has confirmed its first case of human-to-human transmission of Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (SFTS), a potentially lethal tick-borne viral hemorrhagic fever. The National Institute of Infectious Diseases announced that a young doctor, aged in his 20s, contracted the virus following the treatment of a patient who succumbed to the disease in April 2023.

Read More

In conclusion, Herbosa’s advocacy epitomises a concerted effort to ensure accessibility and equity in healthcare access for all Filipinos. The DOH strives to catalyse a paradigm shift towards preventive care and bolster health outcomes nationwide. This is exhibited by advocating for the integration of essential preventive screenings into PhilHealth’s benefit packages and simplifying access for vulnerable populations such as PWDs. Guaranteeing that preventive screenings are readily accessible and financially feasible for all segments of society remains paramount to alleviating disease burden and propelling public health advancements in the Philippines. Herbosa’s initiatives underscore an unwavering commitment to realising universal health coverage and advancing health equity for every Filipino, irrespective of circumstance or background.

Read More

Amidst rising concerns regarding the increased usage of disposable vapes, the Department of Health (DOH) has thrown its support behind Finance Secretary Ralph Recto’s proposal. Sec. Ralph’s proposal talks about prohibiting single-use electronic smoking devices. In a statement, the DOH emphasised the critical necessity for a comprehensive ban on all vape products. They also cited its detrimental impact on both public health and the environment. Health Risks and Environmental Impact Disposable vapes and vapour products, according to the DOH, pose substantial health risks. This includes the potential for e-cigarette or vapour product-associated lung injury (EVALI), nicotine addiction, and a spectrum…

Read More

The loss of Akira Toriyama serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the sudden impact that medical conditions like acute subdural haematoma can have. As fans around the world remember his unparalleled contribution to the manga and anime industry, it’s also an opportunity to raise awareness about this serious health issue, underscoring the importance of vigilance in head injury prevention and the urgency of seeking medical attention when needed.

Read More

This research exemplifies Duke-NUS’s collaborative spirit, combining expertise across disciplines to push the boundaries of medical science. Professor Patrick Tan, Senior Vice-Dean for Research at Duke-NUS, said: “This is a sterling example of how different research programmes within the School come together to tap their various expertise to advance medical knowledge and improve patients’ lives. The team’s valuable insights may one day translate into a new treatment option to control tumour growth or even offer a cure for cancer.”

Read More

With mega music stars like Coldplay, Taylor Swift, Bruno Mars and Ed Sheeran holding concerts in Southeast Asia, there is one medical condition to note.  In the aftermath of an electrifying concert, many individuals find themselves grappling with an unexpected guest: post-concert depression (PCD).  This phenomenon, often overlooked, can cast a shadow over the joy and exhilaration experienced during live music events, leaving fans feeling empty, sad, and disconnected once the lights go out and the music fades. Dr Lim Boon Leng, a psychiatrist at the Centre for Psychological Wellness, provides his clinical insights.  The Highs and Lows of Live…

Read More