Diabetes in Singapore is on the rise, and younger Singaporeans are becoming diabetic at a younger age. Research studies conducted by the NUS Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health have found that 34% of the young adults aged 24 to 35 would be susceptible to diabetes by the age of 65.
“Usually, the peak of diabetes occurs from around 50 to 60 years of age,” says Professor Chia Kee Seng, Dean of the NUS Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health. Although most patients still tend to be generally older, there is an increasing number of patients below 40 or below 30 years of age.
“What caught our attention is that the young people today are eating excessively, thinking that they are healthy, without exercising much.” adds Prof Chia, “Because of them, the numbers may soar in future.”
Media Coverage:
- ‘Ethiroli’, Vasantham Channel, 18 May 2016