Author: Saba Kash

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…

Heat rash, also known as prickly heat or miliaria, is prevalent in Singapore’s tropical climate.  High temperatures and humidity lead to blocked sweat ducts, causing inflammation and discomfort. Preventive measures and treatments can ensure comfort and maintain skin health despite the heat. Understanding Heat Rash in Singapore Heat rash in Singapore is a common issue due to consistently high temperatures and humidity levels. The condition manifests as small, itchy red bumps, often accompanied by a prickling or stinging sensation. It typically affects areas where sweat accumulates, such as the neck, chest, back, and skin folds. Tropical climates significantly increase the…

Singapore is witnessing a significant rise in COVID-19 infections, with the Ministry of Health (MOH) closely monitoring the situation.  The estimated number of COVID-19 cases in the week of 5 to 11 May 2024 surged to 25,900. This is nearly double the 13,700 cases reported the previous week. This alarming increase has raised concerns about the COVID-19 rising in Singapore. It has prompted renewed calls for public vigilance and vaccination. Rising Hospitalisations and ICU Cases Hospitalisations have also seen a noticeable uptick. The average daily COVID-19 hospitalisations rising to about 250 from 181 the week before. Intensive Care Unit (ICU)…

Bird’s nest soup has long been touted for its purported health benefits. But does this traditional delicacy live up to the hype? Bird’s nest soup, a renowned delicacy in traditional Chinese cuisine, uses nests made by swiftlets. These nests consist mainly of the bird’s saliva, which solidifies upon exposure to air. People have consumed bird’s nest soup for centuries, believing it offers numerous health benefits. But how much of this belief is myth, and how much is supported by scientific evidence? Key Benefits and Nutritional Value Bird’s nest soup contains an impressive array of macronutrients and micronutrients. It is particularly…