Remembering Eugene Lim: A Tribute to a Marathoner and Cancer Advocate
Eugene Lim, a passionate marathon runner and sports lover, passed away at the age of 45 on April 10, just three days after marrying his long-time partner, Sofie Chandra, while hospitalized.
South Korea to Ban Stockpiling Medical Syringes and Needles
SEOUL — South Korea will implement a ban on the stockpiling of medical syringes and needles to prevent disruptions in hospital supplies, starting Tuesday (April 14), as announced by the finance ministry.
The Inspiring Journey of Blood Donation Advocates
How many times have you donated blood?
The Inspiring Journey of Lee Hun: A One-Handed Pianist's Triumph Over Adversity
SEOUL — After suffering a major stroke that left South Korean pianist Lee Hun paralyzed on his right side in 2012, his initial concern was whether he would ever walk again.
Rising Colorectal Cancer Deaths in Younger Adults Linked to Education Levels
NEW YORK — A new study reveals that the alarming increase in colorectal cancer deaths among younger adults is primarily affecting those with lower education levels, suggesting that socio-economic factors may be contributing to this trend.
Zumba, K-pop, yoga: Almost 4,000 take part in first 4 sessions of inaugural Active Fest
As the year comes to a close, many in Singapore have gotten active in a new sport and fitness festival.
'Runaway' groom: Meet the man who opted for a marathon 'bachelor party'
When we hear the term "bachelor party", most of us think of late nights filled with drinks and games.
She had her daughter through IVF, ensuring the baby would not inherit her genetic condition
SINGAPORE – She was only 12 when she was diagnosed with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), an inherited condition that causes hundreds or thousands of polyps to form in the colon and rectum.
No limbs, no problem: This adaptive athlete is taking part in marathons around the world
Chris Koch was born without limbs, but this did not stop him from rolling up to multiple marathons around the globe on a longboard and completing them.
Former NBA player Jason Collins undergoing treatment in Singapore for aggressive brain tumour
Former National Basketball Association (NBA) centre Jason Collins is undergoing experimental chemotherapy treatment in Singapore to treat a deadly form of brain cancer.
Why every mum in Singapore should schedule a mammogram
As parents, our days are full with school runs, meals, work, and family time. Very often we overlook our own health.
Want to train with Physical: Asia's Amotti? He'll be back in Singapore in January
Can't get enough of Netflix show Physical: Asia's breakout star Amotti?
Sexual enhancement candy and weight-loss coffee found to contain controlled substances
The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) is warning the public against two products being sold on e-commerce platforms that contain controlled substances.
'I couldn't slow things down': Singaporean shares her burnout experience during festive season
The festive season is the most wonderful time of the year for many in Singapore, but quite the opposite for some.
Prostate Cancer in Focus: What a Wider Range of Options Means for Men
Roughly one in eight men is expected to face a prostate cancer diagnosis during his lifetime, most often later in life. While the statistic alone can sound alarming, experts say it no longer tells the full story. Advances in detection, monitoring and personalised care mean that for many men, a diagnosis does not automatically signal an urgent or invasive path forward.Today, survival outcomes are stronger than ever. In many developed healthcare systems, including Singapore’s, most men diagnosed w
Snakehead Fish, Sesame Oil Chicken and Turmeric Milk: What Confinement Diets Mean for New Mothers
For many women, pregnancy can feel like a long-distance run that only seems to end at childbirth. Yet the moment the baby arrives, another demanding chapter begins. Motherhood brings new physical demands, emotional shifts and a level of fatigue few experiences can match.Seen this way, postpartum confinement is not an outdated custom but a short, intentional pause between two intense journeys. In Singapore’s multicultural society, families have long relied on food traditions passed down through g
Taking Melatonin Nightly: What Sleep Experts Say About Safety, Dosage and Long-Term Use
If you’ve tried a melatonin supplement before — or are considering one — you may have the same questions many others are asking: Can it be used nightly? How long is too long? And if it’s often described as “non-habit forming,” are there still downsides to be aware of?Interest in melatonin has grown steadily in recent years. According to local pharmacy trends in Singapore, enquiries about melatonin now account for a noticeably larger share of supplement-related questions than in the past. This re
Everyday Chemicals May Disrupt Gut Health, New Study Warns — What Singapore Residents Should Know
A growing body of research continues to highlight the importance of maintaining a healthy gut, yet a new analysis from the United Kingdom suggests that certain everyday chemicals may quietly be undermining this vital system. While gut wellness has become a popular topic in recent years, scientists say there may be more unseen influences affecting our digestive environment than previously understood.
Experts Reveal the Smartest Ways to Boost Your Metabolism and Keep It High All Day
Many people wonder why some individuals seem to burn energy effortlessly while others struggle, even with disciplined eating and regular exercise. The difference often comes down to metabolism — the complex internal system responsible for turning food into energy, supporting cell repair, and maintaining hormonal balance. The encouraging news is that your metabolism isn’t fixed. According to specialists, it can be improved at any stage of life with the right habits.Two medical experts — New York–
Extended Breastfeeding May Lower Mothers’ Risk of Heart Disease and Stroke, Study Shows
Breastfeeding is widely recognised for its benefits to infants, providing essential nutrition and immunity. However, a recent study indicates that longer lactation may also offer significant cardiovascular benefits for mothers, reducing the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD) and stroke before the age of 70.The Study and Its ApproachResearchers examined data from the Copenhagen Perinatal Cohort, which included 6,857 mothers who gave birth between 1959 and 1961. The women were followed for over
Paternal Postpartum Depression: Understanding and Addressing a Father's Mental Health
Postpartum depression (PPD) is often associated with mothers, but did you know that it can also affect fathers?
Local Zika Cases Confirmed in Singapore
On June 19, the National Environment Agency (NEA) and the Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA) announced that two local Zika cases have been confirmed at Woodlands Street 11 and Street 32.
Preparing for Your First Hyrox Event: Dos and Don'ts
Are you planning to participate in your first Hyrox event or considering it in the near future?
Global Immunization Progress and Challenges in 2024
In 2024, new data from the World Health Organization (WHO) revealed that a million more children completed the crucial three-dose vaccination against diseases like diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough compared to the previous year.
Health Screening in Singapore (2026): How Much It Really Costs & Where to Go
We all know how crucial health screenings are—spotting potential health issues early can save you from high medical bills and serious complications down the line. But when it comes to the cost of these screenings in Singapore, things aren’t always straightforward.
Obesity Is Rising in Singapore — And It's About More Than Just Overeating
Obesity is becoming an increasingly pressing health issue in Singapore. Recent findings from the National Population Health Survey show a rising trend in obesity among adults aged 18 to 74. Adding to the concern, the World Obesity Federation has ranked Singapore third among Asian countries for adult obesity rates.
China Shares Extensive COVID-19 Research Data with Global Community, Says Foreign Ministry
BEIJING — China has been at the forefront of sharing critical COVID-19 data and research findings with the international community, according to a statement from the Chinese foreign ministry on Tuesday (Dec 31). The announcement comes in response to renewed calls from the World Health Organisation (WHO) for greater transparency and access to information regarding the origins of the virus.
China Expands Mental Health Services to Tackle Rising Cases Among Youth
HONG KONG — In response to growing mental health challenges, particularly among children and teenagers, China's National Health Commission (NHC) has unveiled a new initiative to strengthen mental health services nationwide from 2026 to 2027.
China Unveils National Strategy to Combat Rising Dementia Crisis Amid Aging Population Boom
HONG KONG — In a bold move to address one of its most pressing healthcare challenges, China has rolled out an ambitious nationwide initiative targeting dementia – now officially recognized as a critical public health issue threatening millions of families across the nation.
US Records First Fatal Human Case of H5N1 Bird Flu in Louisiana
Health officials in Louisiana confirmed the nation's first human fatality linked to H5N1 avian influenza on Monday (Jan 6), raising concerns about the virus's potential severity despite assurances of low public risk.
Singapore Investigates 8 Telemedicine Providers Over Clinical and Advertising Violations
SINGAPORE – Authorities are cracking down on telemedicine providers failing to meet healthcare standards, with eight companies currently under scrutiny for clinical care lapses or misleading service promotions, revealed Senior Minister of State for Health Janil Puthucheary during a January 7 parliamentary session.
Global Health Experts Urge Stronger Action Against Bird Flu After First US Fatality
PARIS — The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) issued an urgent warning on Wednesday (Jan 8), calling for intensified efforts to curb the spread of bird flu among animals following the first reported human death from the virus in the United States. Experts emphasize that proactive measures are crucial to prevent further human infections.
Germany on High Alert After Rare Foot-and-Mouth Disease Outbreak in Water Buffalo
HAMBURG — German officials breathed a cautious sigh of relief this week as extensive testing revealed no additional cases of foot-and-mouth disease following last week's alarming discovery - the country's first outbreak in decades among a herd of water buffalo near Berlin.
US HIV/AIDS Aid Program Faces Uncertainty After Abortion Policy Violation in Mozambique
WASHINGTON — A major US-funded global health initiative is under scrutiny following revelations that healthcare workers in Mozambique violated program guidelines by performing abortions, sparking concerns about the future of the multibillion-dollar effort credited with saving millions of lives worldwide.
Healthier SG: A Family's Journey to Better Health Through Preventive Care
In Singapore, where health is truly our greatest wealth, the national Healthier SG initiative is transforming how families approach preventive healthcare. As we mature, the tables turn - we now find ourselves guiding our parents through their health journey, just as they once cared for us in childhood.
Singapore Health Screenings: Costs, Options & Where to Get the Best Deals
Every Singaporean understands the life-saving importance of health screenings. Detecting serious conditions early can mean the difference between manageable treatment and devastating consequences. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right screening package without breaking the bank? We've done the research to bring you everything you need to know.
Singapore's Hidden Threat: Ticks Lurking in Green Spaces Pose Health Risks
SINGAPORE — Beneath the lush greenery of Singapore's parks and nature trails, an often-overlooked danger silently awaits unsuspecting visitors. Tiny but potentially harmful ticks are thriving in these urban oases, posing health risks to hikers, cyclists and pet owners who frequent these areas.
Maharashtra Faces Guillain-Barre Syndrome Outbreak: One Fatality Reported Amid Rising Cases
MUMBAI — Health officials in Maharashtra are on high alert after a concerning surge in Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) cases, with at least one death reported and multiple patients requiring critical care. The rare neurological disorder, known for causing muscle weakness and paralysis, has sparked urgent investigations across the state.
China Prioritizes Physical Education in Schools to Combat Rising Childhood Obesity
HONG KONG — In a bold move to address growing concerns over childhood obesity, China is elevating physical education (PE) from a secondary subject to a core component of the school curriculum. The initiative aims to foster a more balanced approach to education, integrating fitness with academics for well-rounded student development.
Take Charge of Your Health: A Simple Guide to Your First Healthier SG Consultation
Feeling uncertain about improving your health but not sure where to start? You're not alone. Many people hesitate before taking that first step toward better well-being, but the journey begins with a single consultation.
Taiwanese Star Barbie Hsu's Tragic Death at 48: How the Flu Turned Fatal
The entertainment world was left reeling this Monday (Feb 3) with the shocking news of Taiwanese actress-host Barbie Hsu's sudden passing. At just 48 years old, the beloved celebrity and mother of two succumbed to a severe case of pneumonia - an inflammation of lung tissue that reportedly developed from complications following influenza contracted during a recent holiday in Japan.
Father-Daughter Duo's Inspiring Health Transformation: How Small Steps Led to Big Changes
Starting a healthier lifestyle often feels overwhelming, but as one father-daughter team discovered, the journey becomes much easier with the right support system and simple first steps. Their heartwarming story proves that positive change is within everyone's reach.
WHO Sounds Alarm: Europe's Shocking Lack of Awareness on Alcohol-Cancer Link
GENEVA — The World Health Organisation (WHO) has uncovered startling new data revealing a dangerous gap in public knowledge across Europe regarding alcohol's direct connection to cancer. In a bold move, the health authority is urging governments to implement mandatory tobacco-style warning labels on alcoholic beverages—particularly in the world’s heaviest-drinking region.
Fluoride in Singapore: Should You Be Concerned About Its Effects?
A recent US study published in January has reignited debates about fluoride usage, particularly in water, after suggesting a possible link between higher fluoride exposure and lower IQ scores in children. The findings, featured in the Journal of the American Medical Association Pediatrics, have drawn criticism from some scientists who question the study's methodology while reaffirming fluoride's well-documented dental benefits.
South Africa's HIV Vaccine Breakthrough Stalled as US Funding Freeze Halts Critical Research
JOHANNESBURG — In a high-tech Johannesburg laboratory, Nozipho Mlotshwa and her team were on the verge of a potential breakthrough in the decades-long quest for an HIV vaccine. Their latest formulation had just triggered promising immune responses in animal trials when an abrupt order from Washington froze all progress.
Scientists Discover Bat Virus with Similar Traits to Covid-19, But Risk of Human Spread Remains Low
Chinese researchers have identified a bat coronavirus that shares a key trait with the virus behind Covid-19—it uses the same ACE2 receptor to invade human cells. While this raises concerns about potential future transmission, experts caution against alarm, as the virus currently shows limited ability to infect humans.
Polio Eradication at Risk as US Funding Cuts Threaten Global Health Efforts
LONDON — The global fight to eliminate polio faces significant setbacks due to drastic funding cuts from the United States, which could delay eradication efforts and leave more children vulnerable to paralysis, warns a top World Health Organization (WHO) official.
Rise of Unqualified Online "Counsellors" Sparks Mental Health Concerns in Singapore
Mental health professionals in Singapore are raising alarms over the growing trend of untrained individuals offering counselling services on digital platforms. Experts warn this phenomenon poses serious risks, including potential misdiagnosis, harmful advice, and violations of client confidentiality.
Global Air Quality Crisis: Only 7 Nations Meet WHO Standards as US Monitoring Cuts Loom
SINGAPORE — In a startling revelation about the state of our planet's air, just seven countries worldwide met the World Health Organisation's (WHO) stringent air quality benchmarks last year. This alarming data comes as environmental researchers sound the alarm about worsening pollution tracking capabilities following the shutdown of crucial US-led global monitoring initiatives.
South Korea Reports First Foot-and-Mouth Disease Outbreak in Cattle Farm After Nearly Two Years
SEOUL — South Korea's agriculture ministry announced on Friday (March 14) that a confirmed case of foot-and-mouth disease has been detected in a cattle farm, marking the country's first outbreak in nearly two years.
Healthy Ramadan & Hari Raya: Expert Tips to Stay Energized and Avoid Overindulgence
Fasting from sunrise to sunset during Ramadan can test one's endurance, making it crucial to maintain energy levels while resisting the temptation of overeating. As the holy month transitions into the joyous celebrations of Hari Raya Puasa (Aidilfitri), balancing festive feasts with mindful eating becomes essential for well-being.
World Oral Health Day: The Surprising Connection Between Gum Disease and Heart Health
March 20 marks World Oral Health Day - the perfect opportunity to explore how your dental hygiene impacts far more than just your smile. Emerging research reveals startling connections between oral health and overall wellbeing that might surprise you.
7 Budget-Friendly Dental Clinics in Singapore for Quality Care Without Breaking the Bank
We all know the golden rule: visit the dentist every six months for a checkup. But let's be honest—finding an affordable dentist in Singapore can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. The good news? You don't always need to stick rigidly to that six-month schedule. If you're diligent about oral hygiene, stretching visits to once every 18 months or even two years is possible. Still, regular checkups are crucial to catch issues like cavities early before they turn into costly problems.
MaNaDr Strengthens Teleconsultation Protocols After Licence Revocation
Following criticism over excessively brief teleconsultations, telehealth provider MaNaDr has announced stricter measures to enhance service quality and rebuild patient trust.
Breaking the Silence: Singapore Women's Struggle with Undiagnosed Sexual Health Issues
SINGAPORE – When 30-year-old Aisyah (name changed for privacy) found herself unable to consummate her marriage in 2022, she and her husband immediately recognized this wasn't just newlywed jitters.
WHO Nears Historic Pandemic Treaty Deal After Marathon Negotiations
GENEVA - After three years of intense negotiations, member states of the World Health Organization (WHO) are on the verge of finalizing a groundbreaking treaty to strengthen global pandemic preparedness, according to sources close to the talks. The discussions, which continued through Friday night into Saturday morning (April 12), have been temporarily paused until Tuesday as officials work to resolve remaining sticking points.
Beyond Baby Blues: The Hidden Struggles of Postpartum Depression and Workplace Challenges
The journey of motherhood is often painted with images of radiant joy and unconditional love. Yet for many women, this transformative chapter comes with unexpected emotional turbulence that goes far deeper than temporary "baby blues."
FDA Experts Unanimously Back JN.1-Targeted COVID Vaccines for 2026-2026 Season
In a decisive move to stay ahead of the evolving pandemic, US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advisory panel members voted unanimously on Thursday (May 22) to recommend next-generation COVID-19 vaccines specifically designed to combat emerging JN.1 variant strains for the 2026-2026 immunization campaign.
Singapore's Obesity Crisis: Why It's Rising and How to Fight Back
Singapore is facing a growing health challenge – obesity rates are climbing at an alarming rate, with serious implications for public health.
Wildfire Smoke Linked to Higher Death Risk in Lung Cancer Patients, Study Reveals
A groundbreaking California study presented at a major medical conference on May 31 suggests that wildfire smoke could significantly increase mortality risks for lung cancer patients, with non-smokers being particularly vulnerable. However, certain cancer treatments might help counteract these effects.
