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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.
The latest National Population Health Survey (2021/2022) reveals a concerning uptick in obesity among adults aged 18-74. Even more startling? Singapore now ranks third in Asia for adult obesity rates according to the World Obesity Federation.
The Perfect Storm: What's Driving Singapore's Weight Gain?
Experts point to multiple factors creating what they call an "obesogenic environment":
Food landscape: "Ultra-processed foods are everywhere - cheap, convenient, and packed with empty calories," explains Wong Hui Mei, principal dietitian at Gleneagles Hospital.
Tropical climate: Dr. Koh Huilin from Woodlands Health notes our humid weather discourages outdoor exercise despite excellent park connectors.
Work culture: Long hours leave little time for self-care, while stress leads to poor sleep and increased cravings.
The Hidden Factors You Might Not Know About
"It's not just about willpower," emphasizes Dr. Anuradha Negi from Raffles Diabetes Centre. Several surprising elements contribute:
The Medical Connection
- Endocrine disorders like PCOS or thyroid issues
When durian prices crash, Malaysia throws parties
KUALA LUMPUR — Just two years ago, Musang King durian was a luxury at around RM60 (S$19) a kilogram.
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.
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Can What You Eat Really Improve Your Oral Health? What Experts Say
It’s that familiar moment again: your twice-yearly dental check. You step into the clinic, wait patiently, and settle into the chair. A polite request to open your mouth is followed by an uncomfortable pause. Then comes the news — another cavity.You stare at the mirror, then at the enlarged image on the screen, wondering how this happened. You brush daily. You use an electric toothbrush. You limit sweets. You even floss a few times a week. So why do problems still show up?This is where many peop
Airfares from Singapore to Malaysia soar up to 6 times during CNY period; train tickets sold out
Getting his hands on flight tickets to return to his home town in Ipoh, Malaysia, during Chinese New Year is a feat that Mr Tan Yik Xuan has to pull off every year.
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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.
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.
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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.
Beyond Baby Blues: The Hidden Struggles of Postpartum Depression and Workplace Challenges
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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