Author: Saba Kash

Singapore is set to extend parental leave to 30 weeks by 2026, offering more support for working parents.  This initiative aims to provide greater support to working parents, helping them balance their careers with the demands of raising a family. The expanded leave includes not only increased paternity leave but also a new Shared Parental Leave (SPL) scheme, designed to offer more flexibility and time for parents during the crucial early stages of their child’s life. PM Wong Announces Expansion of Parental Leave in Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong revealed the details of the expanded parental leave in Singapore during…

A new ALS brain implant has restored speech for a patient, demonstrating exceptional accuracy and rapid communication capabilities. A patient with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) has regained the ability to speak thanks to a newly developed ALS brain implant. This brain-computer interface (BCI), designed by researchers at UC Davis Health, converts brain signals into speech with remarkable precision, achieving up to 97.5% accuracy. “Our BCI technology helped a man with paralysis to communicate with friends, families, and caregivers,” said Dr. David Brandman, co-principal investigator of the study. The implant was surgically placed in a 45-year-old man who had lost his…

The Case of Imane Khelif in How Fairness is Determined in Sports:  Imane Khelif’s triumph at the Paris 2024 Olympics should have been a moment of unalloyed glory. A testament to years of rigorous training, discipline, and determination. Instead, a storm of controversy overshadowed her victory in the women’s boxing division, not due to her performance but because of questions about her very right to compete. Officials subjected Khelif and Taiwan’s Lin Yu-Ting to arbitrary and deeply flawed testing, which cast a shadow over their achievements and ignited a global debate about fairness in sports. This controversy goes beyond just…

The connection between nutrition and female fertility is becoming increasingly clear.  Research reveals that what women eat can directly affect their ability to conceive, highlighting the critical link between nutrition and female fertility. Proper nutrition plays a fundamental role in maintaining a healthy reproductive system, supporting hormone balance, and improving the chances of a successful pregnancy. While certain diets and nutrients have been found to improve fertility, poor dietary choices may undermine these efforts, making it more difficult to conceive.  The Mediterranean Diet and Female Fertility One of the most compelling links between nutrition and female fertility is found in…

GLP-1 receptor agonists, popular for weight loss and blood glucose control, can lead to significant nutrient deficiencies.  Understanding these nutrient deficiencies on GLP-1 and considering appropriate supplements is essential for maintaining health during long-term treatment. Vitamin B12 Deficiency in GLP-1 Users Vitamin B12 deficiency is a significant concern for individuals using GLP-1 receptor agonists like liraglutide and semaglutide. These medications slow gastric emptying and reduce stomach acid secretion, both of which are crucial for absorbing vitamin B12.  Normally, vitamin B12 is released from food in the stomach, where it binds to a protein called the intrinsic factor, which is essential…

The HPV vaccine in Singapore is a key measure in safeguarding your child’s health.  The vaccine is primarily offered to female students through the school-based programme, but healthcare providers recommend it for all females aged 9 to 26, including those who are homeschooled or studying overseas. This vaccine offers vital protection against cervical cancer, closely linked to human papillomavirus (HPV) infections. Vaccinating your child early shields them from the risks associated with this serious disease. Here’s what every parent needs to know about why this vaccine is so important. Understanding HPV and Its Risks HPV is a widespread virus that…

Understanding Doxycycline for Rosacea Treatment Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that causes persistent redness, bumps, and visible veins, often affecting self-esteem and quality of life. While various treatments are available, including topical creams and lifestyle adjustments, finding the most effective approach can be challenging. For those dealing with more severe or stubborn symptoms, doxycycline is often introduced as an oral treatment option. Unlike many antibiotics, doxycycline is valued not just for its ability to combat bacteria but for its strong anti-inflammatory properties. This makes it particularly effective in managing the redness and bumps associated with rosacea, offering hope to…

Two Singapore nurse leaders have recently been promoted to senior executive roles, marking a significant achievement in the country’s healthcare landscape. Adjunct Associate Professor Yong Keng Kwang and Ms Margaret Lee have ascended to C-suite positions at leading public hospitals, highlighting the evolving role of Singapore nurse leaders in senior executive roles. Traditionally, nurses have not been seen in top executive roles within Singapore’s healthcare institutions. However, these appointments signal a shift in how Singapore nurse leaders are perceived and valued, with growing recognition of their contributions beyond bedside care and nursing management. Pioneering Roles in Singapore’s Healthcare System Singapore…

Understanding the Cortisol Face Phenomenon Cortisol face is a term gaining attention online, describing facial puffiness, bloating, and fat redistribution linked to high cortisol levels. While not officially recognised as a medical condition, there are scientific explanations behind these changes. We explore the physiological and psychological impacts of cortisol, examines whether cortisol face is a legitimate concern, and discusses the risks of constantly chasing the latest health trends. How Cortisol Causes Fat Redistribution Cortisol, a stress hormone, plays a significant role in how fat is distributed in the body. Elevated cortisol levels lead to fat storage, particularly in the face,…

Surge in Dengue Cases in Singapore in 2024 Dengue cases in Singapore in 2024 have surged past 10,000, exceeding the total infections for 2023. This year, the National Environment Agency (NEA) recorded 10,421 cases by the end of July. The rise in dengue cases in Singapore in 2024 is a significant public health concern, with weekly numbers remaining consistently high. Weekly and Cumulative Dengue Cases in Singapore in 2024 The week ending 27 July 2024 saw 311 cases, a significant increase of 75 cases compared to the previous week.  The cumulative total for the first 30 epidemiological weeks of 2024…