Author: Saba Kash

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…

Understanding Hair Training “Hair training” is all about extending the time between hair washes to improve hair health and reduce oil production. This trendy concept has gained significant popularity on social media, with influencers and beauty gurus swearing by it.  The idea is simple: by washing your hair less frequently, your scalp supposedly adjusts and produces less oil over time. But is hair training a real solution or just a myth? Let’s dive into the evidence behind hair training and explore some proven methods for achieving gorgeous, healthy hair. The Concept of Hair Training: Myths and Realities Hair training, the…

Breakthrough Trial Suggests GLP-1 Drugs Could Slow Alzheimer’s Progression Researchers have discovered that GLP-1 drugs, like liraglutide, may slow cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s patients. These early findings hint at an exciting new use for medications originally developed for diabetes and weight loss. Historical Context of Alzheimer’s Research Alzheimer’s disease, first identified in 1906 by Dr. Alois Alzheimer, has long puzzled scientists and clinicians. For decades, research has focused on understanding the disease’s underlying mechanisms, particularly the roles of amyloid plaques and tau tangles in brain degeneration. Despite significant advances, effective treatments have remained elusive.  The current standard of care includes…

Significant Uptake in Healthier SG Programme Promotes Preventive Health The Healthier SG initiative is making waves, with nearly one million people signing up in its inaugural year. This innovative preventive healthcare programme is changing the way Singaporeans manage their health, promoting a proactive and personalised approach to well-being. Transformative Health Coaching and Personalised Care with Healthier SG Healthier SG, launched in July 2023, is designed to offer personalised care plans tailored to individual health needs. The programme emphasises preventive healthcare, providing annual check-ups and comprehensive health screenings at no cost to participants.  Additionally, Healthier SG offers health coaching services, where…

Increasing Cases of Elderly Abandonment in Malaysia Elderly abandonment in Malaysia is becoming a significant concern. With the ageing population projected to rise from 2.5 million in 2023 to 4.5 million by 2030, the instances of elderly individuals being neglected by their families are increasing. This disturbing trend is observed both in private nursing homes and government-run hospitals. Statistics Highlight the Growing Problem Recent data highlights the escalating issue of elderly abandonment in Malaysia. In Hospital Kuala Lumpur, cases of abandoned elderly patients rose by 50% over three years, from 239 cases in 2020 to 358 in 2023.  Nationwide, over…

Over 60 Affected by Gastroenteritis at ByteDance Office Food Poisoning Incident At least 60 people fell ill following a significant food poisoning incident of gastroenteritis at the ByteDance office in Singapore on July 30. The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) and Ministry of Health (MOH) are investigating the suspected gastroenteritis cases at ByteDance’s office at One Raffles Quay. Emergency Response and Medical Attention The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) received multiple calls for assistance at approximately 3.15 pm. Seventeen ambulances were dispatched to the scene, with multiple individuals being treated by paramedics in the South Tower lobby.  The affected individuals experienced…