Author: Saba Kash

Traditional Thai massage (TTM) is an ancient practice known for its therapeutic benefits. It is an ancient therapeutic practice that has been used in various medical conditions, including post-surgery rehabilitation. The incorporation of TTM into rehabilitation programs has shown promising results in improving patient outcomes. This response explores the role of TTM in post-surgery rehabilitation based on data from multiple studies.

Uncovering the Surprising Benefits of Papaya Leaf Juice for Dengue Treatment Can a simple juice from papaya leaves help combat dengue fever? Emerging evidence suggests that papaya leaf juice could be a game-changer for dengue patients, significantly boosting platelet counts and enhancing recovery. This natural remedy, cherished in traditional medicine, is now gaining scientific backing for its potential to support dengue treatment. Understanding Dengue Fever and the Role of Platelets Dengue fever, transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, is a prevalent viral infection in tropical and subtropical regions. Symptoms range from mild flu-like conditions to severe manifestations such as dengue haemorrhagic…

The Singapore Food Agency has extended its recall of Xiyuguoyuan Xinjiang Paper Roasted Walnut products. Further to the media release on 24 May 2024, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has extended the recall to include additional batches of Xiyuguoyuan walnut products from China.  The recall was prompted by the detection of Cyclamate (as Cyclamic Acid) and Acesulfame-K exceeding permitted levels. SFA has directed the importer, Xin Hong Yang International Trading Pte Ltd, to recall the products. The recall is ongoing. Consumer Health Advisory Consumers who have consumed the implicated Xiyuguoyuan walnut products and have concerns about their health should seek…

The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed the first death from H5N2 bird flu in Mexico, marking the first known human case of this variant. A 59-year-old resident of the State of Mexico succumbed to H5N2 bird flu on April 24, marking the first death from H5N2 bird flu. The individual had been hospitalised in Mexico City and exhibited symptoms including fever, shortness of breath, diarrhoea, and nausea. Unknown Source of Exposure The source of exposure to the H5N2 virus remains unknown, though the WHO has reported H5N2 cases in poultry in Mexico. This particular strain of bird flu, known…

Breast tissue enlargement affects many male teens due to hormonal changes. Experts reveal its prevalence, symptoms, and treatment options. Gynaecomastia, the enlargement of breast tissue in boys and men, is a common condition affecting 50-60% of male adolescents. This condition, often a result of hormonal imbalances during puberty, typically resolves on its own. However, understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatments is essential for those affected. Prevalence and Causes Gynaecomastia affects approximately 17% of boys around the age of 13, according to Dr. Chin Xinyi, a senior endocrinologist at KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH). The condition impacts 50-60% of male…

Alarming Rise in Obesity in Malaysia Malaysia is renowned for its delicious cuisine, but this culinary richness may be contributing to a growing health concern. According to a recent tweet from the Malaysian Ministry of Health, 54.4% of Malaysian adults are either overweight or obese, highlighting the issue of obesity in Malaysia. The tweet highlighted, “Masyarakat Malaysia semakin gemuk! 1️⃣ daripada 2️⃣ dewasa Malaysia adalah berlebihan berat badan dan obes.” Increasing Obesity Statistics The 2023 National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) revealed a significant rise in overweight and obesity rates among Malaysian adults. In 2019, 50.1% of adults were reported…

Herbal Teas: A Staple in Asian Medicine Herbal teas, known for their heat-clearing and detoxification properties, have been a cornerstone of traditional Asian medicine for centuries. In regions like Chaoshan, China, teas made from plants such as serpent grass, Asian plantain, and gotu kola are widely used to treat ailments like coughs, colds, and dysentery.  Similarly, in India, Ayurvedic medicine frequently incorporates herbal teas made from tulsi (holy basil), ginger, and turmeric to balance the body’s doshas and enhance overall well-being. In Japan, matcha and sencha teas, rich in antioxidants, are consumed to boost metabolism and improve mental clarity. These…

Urban gardening improves the immune system: A placebo-controlled study reveals indoor gardening enhances skin microbiota diversity and immune function. Indoor Gardening Increases Microbial Diversity and Anti-Inflammatory Responses Urban indoor gardening has been shown to enhance immune regulation and diversify skin microbiota, according to a recent study published in Environmental International. The study involved a one-month indoor gardening intervention, demonstrating significant health benefits for participants using microbially rich growing mediums compared to a control group using peat-based mediums. “One month of urban indoor gardening boosted the diversity of bacteria on the skin and was associated with higher levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines…

Confinement practices for mothers who have just given birth are traditional postpartum customs involving dietary, physical, and social restrictions intended to promote recovery and well-being.  These practices are prevalent in various cultures, especially in Asian communities. The emphasis is on rest, a specific diet, and avoiding activities deemed harmful during the post-partum period. This article explores the health benefits of these traditional confinement practices in Southeast Asia (SEA). Traditional pregnancy confinement practices in Southeast Asia are deeply rooted in cultural beliefs and have been passed down through generations. In Malaysia, for instance, the confinement period, known as “pantang,” lasts for…

Significant Funding for Precision Oncology Singapore’s fight against cancer has received a significant boost with a $50 million grant awarded to two research teams at the National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS). The Ministry of Health, through the National Medical Research Council (NMRC) and MOH Holdings Pte Ltd, has allocated these funds under the NMRC Open Fund-Large Collaborative Grant (OF-LCG) programme. The funding aims to enhance understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of lymphoma and colorectal cancer, focusing on precision oncology to improve patient outcomes. Focus on Innovative Lymphoma Treatments One team, led by NCCS in collaboration with various institutions, will focus on…