Author: Saba Kash

Exploring the Potential of Probiotics for IBS Relief Probiotics for IBS have been explored as a potential treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), a common chronic gastrointestinal disorder. IBS is characterised by symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits. This overview examines the current evidence regarding the efficacy of probiotics in alleviating IBS symptoms. Balancing Gut Bacteria Probiotics may help by balancing the bacteria in the gut, which is often out of balance in IBS patients. Several studies support this, indicating improvements in gut health and a reduction in IBS symptoms. Research shows that probiotics can positively affect…

Teva Pharmaceuticals has launched a generic version of Novo Nordisk’s Victoza, the first generic GLP-1 drug available in the United States.  This move aims to address the increasing demand for GLP-1 drugs used for treating type 2 diabetes and obesity. Rising Demand for GLP-1 Drugs The introduction of Teva’s generic Victoza comes at a time when the demand for GLP-1 drugs is surging. GLP-1 drugs like Eli Lilly’s Mounjaro, Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy, and Ozempic have gained popularity for their effectiveness in managing both diabetes and obesity. However, this increased demand has led to intermittent shortages over the past year, highlighting…

Innovative Gene Therapy for Glioblastoma by NUS Medicine National University of Singapore’s Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine (NUS Medicine) is set to trial a new gene therapy for glioblastoma in 2025. This gene therapy, promises hope for glioblastoma patients who typically have only two years to live post-diagnosis. What is Glioblastoma? Glioblastoma, also known as glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), is the most aggressive type of primary brain tumour. Originating from the glial cells in the brain, glioblastoma rapidly infiltrates surrounding brain tissue, making it exceptionally difficult to treat. This malignancy is characterised by its heterogeneous nature, with various genetic mutations…

Understanding Patient Behaviour in Health Crises Imagine your patient, feeling unwell and anxious, logs online to search for answers. They type symptoms into a search engine, hoping to find guidance and reassurance. During health crises, this scenario plays out countless times each day. Patients urgently seek information on their conditions, treatments, and potential outcomes. By understanding patient search behaviour and the top keywords they use, healthcare professionals can better target their audiences. Aligning your content with these search terms enhances your online presence, engages patients more effectively, and provides them with the critical information they need in their time of…

Singapore Approves Insect-Based Foods for Consumption and Animal Feed Singapore has approved the import of insect-based foods and products, marking a significant step towards sustainable eating. The new guidelines from the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) ensure safety and quality, paving the way for innovative culinary possibilities. Exciting Additions to the Menu These insects include familiar critters like house crickets, banded crickets, mealworms, and even locusts. Each species has been assessed to pose low regulatory concern, ensuring they meet safety standards.  The SFA has carefully evaluated these insects, paving the way for innovative culinary possibilities and sustainable food options. The approval…

Mass Norovirus Outbreak in Namwon City Linked to Kimchi About 1,000 people in South Korea are suffering from food poisoning linked to kimchi contaminated with norovirus. Rapid Increase in Cases Officials in Namwon City, located in south-western South Korea, reported 996 confirmed cases of norovirus on Friday morning. Local media indicated that the number had risen to 1,024 by early Saturday afternoon. This rapid increase in cases highlights the severity of the kimchi norovirus outbreak. Source of Contamination Authorities stated that the contaminated kimchi had been distributed through school meals in Namwon City. Consequently, students and staff from 24 schools…

The Importance of Social Media for Healthcare Professionals In today’s digital age, social media isn’t just for selfies and status updates—it’s revolutionising healthcare. Social media has become an essential tool for healthcare professionals, transforming the way they communicate, educate, and engage with patients and colleagues.  By leveraging these platforms, healthcare providers can enhance their practice, stay informed about the latest medical advancements, and contribute to public health education. Enhancing Patient Communication Imagine a patient receiving timely advice from their doctor through a Facebook post, a TikTok, or a tweet answering a health concern within minutes. Social media platforms have transformed…

How Gut Health Impacts PCOS Symptoms Emerging research reveals that gut health significantly affects Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) symptoms. Alterations in gut microbiota can influence insulin resistance, inflammation, and hormonal imbalances, which are key factors in PCOS. Understanding the connection between gut health and PCOS offers new avenues for managing this condition effectively. Altered Gut Microbiota Women with PCOS exhibit lower diversity and altered phylogenetic composition of gut microbiota compared to healthy controls. The gut microbiota is the community of microorganisms living in the digestive tract, playing a crucial role in overall health. In PCOS patients, the diversity of these…

Australia has introduced groundbreaking regulations on the sale of vapes, becoming the first country to restrict their sale to pharmacies.  The new laws, effective from 1 July 2024, aim to regulate the importation, sale, and advertising of vapes, including all vaping substances, accessories, and devices. Overview of Vape Regulation Changes in Australia Starting 1 January 2024, Australia tightened import controls on all vapes. Importers can only bring in vapes that meet the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) standards. These changes come with revised regulations for therapeutic vapes. From 1 March 2024, importers must notify the TGA of compliant vapes, ensuring non-compliant…

Proton beam therapy for cancer in Singapore is being heralded as an advanced radiation treatment.  Unlike conventional radiation, proton beam therapy for cancer in Singapore minimises damage to healthy cells. Dr Michael Wang, chair of radiation oncology at the National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS), highlighted that proton beam therapy for cancer in Singapore reduces radiation exposure to nearby healthy tissues and organs, potentially lowering the risk of secondary cancers. Introduction of Proton Beam Therapy in Singapore Since mid-2023, Singapore has offered proton beam therapy for cancer at three locations. Mount Elizabeth Novena, the Singapore Institute of Advanced Medicine Holdings (SAM)…