Author: Saba Kash

Boosting Research for Defence Against Diseases Spread from Animals to Humans With climate change, deforestation, and cross-border animal trade increasing the risk of zoonotic diseases, Singapore is boosting research to understand the links between human, animal, and environmental health. The National Parks Board (NParks) will call for research proposals in 2024 under its new Biosurveillance Research Programme to detect and prevent future outbreaks. Increasing Risk of Zoonotic Diseases Zoonotic diseases, those transmitted from animals to humans, pose a growing threat due to climate change and habitat destruction. Factors such as urbanisation, increased human-animal interactions, and global trade of animals exacerbate…

Tan Tock Seng Hospital Strives To Make Work-Life Balance A Reality For Nurses With Unique Flexible Shift Scheduling From three routine shifts, TTSH now offers six additional variable shifts for nurses. The nature of nursing work often involves irregular hours, long shifts, and unexpected demands which hinder hospitals’ ability to attract and retain nurses. Routine work schedules can be challenging, especially as society trends towards flexible working arrangements like working from home. Yet, this structure of routine work shifts has enabled the hospital to provide round-the-clock patient care. In October 2023, Tan Tock Seng Hospital piloted its Liquid Nursing initiative…

In a decisive move to uphold food safety standards, Singapore’s SFA has cancelled the Sakura Buffet licence following significant health and safety breaches. Due to ongoing food safety violations, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has enacted the Sakura Buffet licence cancellation. This is effective from 10 May 2024. This decision follows a series of consumer complaints and regulatory inspections that highlighted critical lapses in food hygiene and safety standards. Detailed Examination of Sakura Buffet’s Violations From late March 2024, the SFA began to receive multiple reports concerning the safety of home-delivered meals catered by Sakura Buffet. Customers reported several alarming…

In response to concerns over excessive issuance, Singapore’s Ministry of Health is revising guidelines to introduce stricter medical certificate rules, impacting both in-person and teleconsultations. The Ministry of Health (MOH) in Singapore has initiated steps to tighten medical certificate rules by proposing amendments to the Healthcare Services Act. This move comes after significant feedback regarding the liberal issuance of medical certificates following both teleconsultations and in-person services. These changes aim to ensure that medical certificates are issued based on thorough clinical assessments and genuine medical needs. MOH’s Observations and Actions Various employers and government agencies have raised alarming feedback. Cases…

Revolutionary Vaccine for UTI Offers Hope for Long-Term Relief from Recurrent Infections Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common yet distressing condition affecting millions worldwide, especially women. These infections are characterised by a persistent urge to urinate, pain during urination, and can lead to more severe symptoms if untreated.  Typically managed with antibiotics, UTIs often result in resistance and recurring problems. However, the introduction of a new vaccine for UTI, known as MV140, is offering a promising alternative, aiming to provide durable protection against these recurrent infections. Understanding the Impact of MV140 The MV140 vaccine for UTI has demonstrated significant…

Beat the Heat with Your Diet For Hot Weather: Key Nutritional Strategies for Enhanced Heat Tolerance As global temperatures climb, the need for practical strategies to manage heat-related health issues becomes increasingly urgent. Modifying one’s diet for hot weather, a seemingly simple approach, holds significant potential in combating the physiological impacts of heat stress.  Research suggests that certain nutrients can mitigate these effects, enhancing the body’s ability to cope with increased temperatures. This article explores how dietary supplements and specific nutrients can be strategically used to improve heat tolerance, potentially decreasing the risk of conditions like exertional heatstroke. Curcumin: A…

Exploring the Surprising Health Benefits of Grandparents Babysitting A recent study from the Berlin Aging Study has shed light on an intriguing aspect of eldercare. Focusing on older adults aged 70 and above in former West Berlin, the study meticulously tracked 516 participants until 2009, revealing that grandparents who babysit might not only enjoy their time but could also extend it. This comprehensive investigation highlights the potential life-extending benefits of caregiving by grandparents. How Babysitting Grandkids Could Add Years to Your Life The findings from the Berlin Aging Study provide compelling evidence that babysitting grandchildren is more than just a…

Discover effective ways to stay cool without air conditioning, reducing energy use and enhancing comfort. Read more

From enhancing cardiovascular health to aiding metabolic processes, Pu Erh tea presents a promising natural remedy backed by scientific studies.  Pu Erh tea, originating from the Yunnan province of China, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. This fermented tea is traditionally made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, specifically the large-leaf varietal native to the region.  The unique fermentation process can last from months to years. This distinguishes Pu Erh tea with a deep, earthy flavour that evolves over time. Historically, its medicinal properties and robustness made it an ideal commodity for trading on the…

Singapore’s tropical sunshine offers plenty of natural vitamin D, yet many locals might still benefit from D3 supplements.  Here’s why this paradox exists and what you need to know. The Sunshine Vitamin in the Garden City Singapore, known for its equatorial location, enjoys abundant sunlight year-round, which naturally facilitates the synthesis of vitamin D. However, despite the ample sunshine, the urban lifestyle and prevalent use of sunscreen among Singaporeans can significantly reduce their exposure to beneficial ultraviolet rays.  Understanding Vitamin D: Diet, Genetics, and Lifestyle In Singapore, the levels of vitamin D—a crucial nutrient for bone health—vary widely among residents,…