Author: Saba Kash

New studies reveal shocking truths: no amount of alcohol is safe, with links to cancer, liver disease, and heart problems. Recent research consistently shows that no amount of alcohol consumption is entirely safe for health. Studies have explored various risks associated with alcohol use, including cancer, liver disease, and cardiovascular issues. The World Heart Federation (WHF) recently updated its stance, highlighting alcohol’s significant role in the rising prevalence of cardiovascular diseases and other health issues. Alcohol and Cancer Risks Recent studies have shown that no amount of alcohol is safe when it comes to cancer risk. Even light drinking, defined…

Discover how telemedicine is improving access, reducing costs, and enhancing the quality of care for patients and doctors. The benefits of telemedicine extend to both patients and doctors, significantly enhancing healthcare efficiency and accessibility. This article explores the multifaceted advantages of telemedicine, including improved access, cost-effectiveness, and enhanced quality of care, along with increased patient satisfaction and professional development for doctors. Improved Access to Healthcare Telemedicine significantly improves access to healthcare services, particularly for patients in remote or rural areas who face challenges reaching medical facilities. It enables patients to consult specialists without the need for long-distance travel, bridging geographical…

Smartphone Use in Singapore: Key Findings from IMH Study A recent Health and Lifestyle Survey conducted by the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) has revealed significant findings regarding smartphone use in Singapore. The study highlights that 30.2% of the population, or approximately one in three individuals, exhibit problematic smartphone use (PSU). This behaviour is strongly linked to various mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, and insomnia. High Prevalence of Problematic Smartphone Use The IMH study found that problematic smartphone use in Singapore is prevalent among residents aged 15 to 65 years. Researchers used the Smartphone Addiction Scale-Short Version (SAS-SV) to…

How to Choose a Doctor for Your Needs Finding a doctor who meets your specific needs can be challenging. Knowing how to choose a doctor is essential for receiving the best possible care. Whether you need a general practitioner for routine check-ups or a specialist for a specific condition, these five tips will help you make an informed decision. By understanding your healthcare needs, checking credentials and experience, reading reviews, evaluating communication and comfort, and considering accessibility and convenience, you can ensure that you choose a doctor who is well-suited to provide the care you require. Making an informed choice…

Effective Treatment for TMJ Disorders Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections into the masseter muscle are a promising solution for those suffering from Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders. This treatment can significantly reduce muscle tension, alleviate pain, and enhance jaw function, offering relief and improved quality of life for many patients. Understanding TMJ Disorders TMJ disorders affect the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, causing significant discomfort and dysfunction. Symptoms include jaw pain, difficulty chewing, and clicking or locking of the jaw. TMJ disorders can also lead to headaches, earaches, and facial pain. These symptoms often arise from muscle overuse, trauma, arthritis, or bruxism…

Understanding Healthcare Quality from a Patient’s Perspective Imagine stepping into a healthcare facility, unsure of what to expect. Evaluating healthcare services as a patient starts the moment they walk through the door. They  notice the cleanliness of the waiting area, the friendliness of the staff, and the efficiency of the check-in process.  Each interaction, from the receptionist’s smile to the doctor’s attentiveness, shapes the patient experience. It’s not just about the medical treatment received, but how they’re treated throughout the visit. In this article, we’ll delve into what truly matters when evaluating healthcare services as a patient. The Importance of…

Banned Substance Detected in V-SHOU Premium Coffee The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has detected a banned substance, Sibutramine, in “V-SHOU Premium Coffee”. As a result, V-Shou coffee is banned. Consumers are advised not to purchase or consume the product. Weight Loss Claims and Product Listings Sellers market “V-SHOU Premium Coffee” as a weight loss product on various local e-commerce platforms. It claims to promote weight loss, accelerate fat burning, enhance metabolism, provide quicker slimming results, soothe the digestive system, and control appetite. Due to these claims and the detection of Sibutramine, SFA banned V-Shou coffee. SFA worked with various online…

Mark Chay Prioritises Health and Family Following Leukaemia Diagnosis Mark Chay, the current president of Singapore Aquatics (SAQ), has been diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukaemia. The 42-year-old will not seek re-election when his two-year term ends in August. In an exclusive interview with The Straits Times, Chay discussed his reasons for stepping down, emphasising his health and the need to focus on organising the 2025 World Aquatics Championships. Prioritising Health and Organisational Commitments Chay stated that his primary concern is to focus on his health and family. “The first consideration for my decision is to focus on organising the 2025…

For healthcare providers, understanding the importance of reviews in choosing a healthcare provider is crucial. This article delves into how reviews influence patient decisions, offering valuable insights from various studies on their significant role in the selection process. Complex Decision-Making Process Patients consider a multitude of factors when selecting healthcare providers. Key elements include medical licences, board certifications, insurance acceptance, and the overall reputation of the provider. Among these factors, online reviews have emerged as a significant yet complex component in the decision-making process. While clinical credentials and insurance compatibility are often the foremost considerations, the importance of reviews in…

Bali Belly: What You Need to Know Before Travelling “Bali Belly” is a colloquial term for traveller’s diarrhoea experienced by visitors to Bali. This condition is primarily caused by ingesting contaminated food or water, leading to gastrointestinal distress. What Causes Bali Belly? Bacterial Infections Bali Belly is often caused by bacterial infections, with Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Shigella species being the primary culprits. These bacteria thrive in environments with poor sanitation and are commonly found in contaminated food and water. When tourists consume contaminated items, the bacteria enter the digestive system, causing symptoms like diarrhoea, nausea, and abdominal cramps.…