News

A growing crisis is unfolding as H5N1 avian influenza spreads from birds to dairy cattle and humans in the US. While human cases remain mild, experts warn of pandemic risks if the virus mutates. Although Singapore has made significant progress in pandemic preparedness through research, and reforms, global readiness remains a concern. This is due to stalled international cooperation and reduced funding for key health organisations. Are we truly better prepared for pandemics today compared to five years ago? Hear from Dean, Prof Teo Yik Ying, as he explores the state of pandemic preparedness both locally and globally.

With cannabis legalised in some countries, marijuana vaping has become more widespread among youths. The rising prevalence of drug-infused vapes raises serious concerns as youths are exposed to higher risks of addiction and overdose. Is vaping becoming a gateway towards harder drug substances? Hear from Asst Prof Yvette Van Der Eijk as she discusses the growing trend of drug-infused vapes among youths and delve into the need to implement stricter regulations on vaping.

Dr Vivek Murthy, the 19th and 21st Surgeon General of the United States, issued a federal advisory highlighting alcohol as a major preventable cause of cancer and called for warning labels on alcoholic beverages. While alcohol remains prevalent in social settings, even moderate drinking can be harmful with recent research highlights the significant risks associated with its consumption. Prolonged alcohol use can lead to brain atrophy and impaired neurotransmitter function, particularly affecting the frontal lobes, which are responsible for decision- making, impulse control and memory.   Hear from Asst Prof Saima Hilal and Adj Asst Prof Kyle Tan as they share their insights on the effects of alcohol consumption on our health.

Congratulations to Prof Tai E Shyong from NUS Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health for receiving the Research Excellence Award at the NUHS Tribute Awards Ceremony 2025. Held on 28 February 2025 at The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore, the ceremony celebrated outstanding individuals across the NUHS cluster who have made significant contributions to patient care, research, and education in our academic health system. The Research Excellence Award recognises clinicians, allied health professionals (AHPs), and nurses who drive change through research, pioneering initiatives that enhance healthcare quality and advance patient-centred services.

Officially launched on 11 Feb 2025, the Haydays with Horses pilot programme is a collaboration between Equal, Temasek Foundation, NTUC Health, Institute of Mental Health and the School. This initiative introduces miniature horses to nursing homes and active ageing centres in Singapore to interact with seniors through various activities that assists in improving their overall well-being. How can we evaluate the economic and health impact this therapeutic experience brings about for seniors? Hear from Assoc Prof Luo Nan as he delves into the programme's impact on well-being and cost-effectiveness, while supporting Equal in implementing effective approaches.

On 12 Feb 2025, we gathered to celebrate the joy of the Lunar New Year with our SSHSPH family! A highlight of the celebration was a traditional Lohei (Prosperity Toss), where everyone came together to toss for good health, success, and happiness in the year ahead. The event also featured the presentation of the Long Service Award 2025, honouring our dedicated colleagues for their years of commitment and contributions to public health. Thank you to everyone who joined us in making this event a memorable one! Wishing all a prosperous, healthy, and fulfilling year ahead!

Despite intensified enforcement and public awareness campaigns, the number of individuals fined for vaping in 2024 nearly doubled compared to the previous year, with a significant portion of these violations occurring among students. This alarming trend highlights the pervasive influence of social media, where vaping is often glamourized as trendy and harmless by influencers and Big Vape campaigns.

President Donald Trump’s decision to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO) raises significant concerns about global health security. Even a temporary withdrawal could be highly disruptive, potentially resulting in severe consequences should another pandemic emerge. Despite these challenges, the WHO remains an essential platform for global health cooperation. The US withdrawal not only creates

Recent concerns about fluoride in drinking water have surfaced after a study in the Journal of the American Medical Association Paediatrics suggested a potential link between higher fluoride levels and lower IQ scores in children. Despite these concerns, experts maintain that fluoride is crucial for preventing tooth decay, a significant contributor to long-term health problems. They argue that water fluoridation is essential for dental health, even with widespread toothpaste use. Given the growing concerns about fluoride safety, how can public health authorities balance the benefits of fluoridation against the potential risks? Hear from Dr Sharon Tan as she explains why regulated fluoride levels, along with good oral hygiene and reduced sugar intake, are crucial for maintaining dental health.

Established in 2019 as the 19th official NUS city chapter, the network has flourished with over 800 members and continues to grow in strength. The ceremonial turnover of leadership from the outgoing Executive Committee (ExCo) to the incoming 2025-2026 ExCo took place at the Sundowner Thanksgiving gathering in Taguig City. As the second Chairperson and the first female leader of the chapter, Dr Cloma-Rosales shared her vision and guiding principles to enhance the network’s impact and engagement over the next two years. Wishing her and the new ExCo a successful and inspiring term ahead!

In one of his first executive actions upon returning to office, President Donald Trump signed an order to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization. For many Asian countries, the US departure raises significant concerns. Nations like Singapore must now take proactive steps to lead regional health initiatives and ensure the well-being of their populations. While the loss of US funding is a setback, it also presents an opportunity for regional groupings, such as ASEAN, to contribute to the global health system. How can Singapore blaze the trail for regional health initiatives following the US withdrawal from the WHO? Hear from Dean, Teo Yik Ying, as he delves into the implications and opportunities of this move for creating a more equitable and resilient global health framework.

In today’s hyperconnected world, misinformation from leading figures and misleading health headlines are gaining momentum, often lacking credible scientific backing. Social media platforms amplify these health myths, making it easier for false information to spread and thrive. This misinformation can lead to public health misunderstandings and even harm. Alarmist headlines and pseudo-science are difficult to distinguish, and even well-educated individuals can struggle to discern fact from fiction, especially when health claims are presented persuasively. How can we combat the rise of health misinformation and help the public make informed health choices? Hear from Dean Prof Teo Yik Ying, as he encourages individuals to seek information from credible sources, consult experts, and critically evaluate claims before sharing them.