News

Congratulations to Associate Professor Mary Chong on her appointment as Programme Director of Master of Public Health (MPH) with effect from 1 Jan 2024.

Mary is a distinguished researcher specialising in Maternal and Child Nutrition. With a background as a clinical dietitian and a PhD from the University of Oxford, UK, she leads the nutrition domain of the Growing Up in Singapore Towards Healthy Outcomes (GUSTO) study, alongside contributing to pre-conception research like SPRESTO and NiPPeR. Mary’s innovative approach integrates web-based technologies to explore the intricate link between diet, lifestyle behaviours, and health outcomes in children and adults.

Alongside her research commitments, Mary actively contributes to shaping the future of public health professionals. She shares her expertise in maternal and child nutrition through teaching undergraduate and graduate courses, as well as coordinating 2 core courses for the Master of Public Health (MPH) programme – SPH5001 Foundations for Public Health and SPH5003 Health Behaviour and Communications. Furthermore, Mary has been instrumental in spearheading the ongoing review of the MPH programme, actively leading and ensuring progress. Simultaneously, she plays a significant role in the assessment and enhancement courses within the School.

Her dedication to both research and teaching demonstrates her firm commitment to translating her research findings into education and contributing to public health.

Want to tackle real-world health challenges, both locally and globally? Then Public Heath may just be the calling for you! Explore what Public Health is and discover how a Minor or a Second Major in Public Health can enhance your major degree and expand your professional career across diverse fields.

Want to make a lasting impact in the field of public health? Join us at the NUS Open House 2024 and explore the different programmes offered at the Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health.

When you hear ‘Public Health’ you might immediately think of diseases such as Covid-19. You might imagine people working on ways to prevent infections or detect new outbreaks.

The 13th edition of the Public Health Thought Leadership Dialogue (PHTLD) was held on 7 Feb 2024, featuring distinguished speaker Dr Anders Nordström, who is an advisor, advocate, activist of public health and former Swedish Ambassador for Global Health

We would like to extend our warmest Adjunct Associate Professor Adam Chee for receiving the HIMSS Senior Executive Award and for his election to HL7 International, marking him as the first and only Singaporean to achieve this distinction.

The HIMSS Changemaker Award (CXO/Senior Executive) is bestowed upon individuals who exhibit active leadership, demonstrating the ability to propel innovation by harnessing emerging, disruptive, and cutting-edge technology to drive transformational change. This leadership addresses healthcare pain points and leads to improved health outcomes.

Health Level Seven International (HL7) serves as a cornerstone in the world of healthcare, critically shaping the future of health information technology. The John

Artificial intelligence (AI) is generating both concerns and hopes regarding its influence on the future of work, spanning from hospitals to call centres. While it has successfully assumed certain responsibilities within the realm of healthcare, the job security of healthcare workers seems to remain unaffected for the foreseeable future.

In 2023, a significant milestone was reached with the conclusion of the COVID-19 era as a worldwide health emergency. As we turn our attention to 2024 and the future, what public health challenges are we expected to face?

Locally, Singapore will be confronted with issues linked to its aging population, mental health concerns, and ongoing endeavors to handle and plan for outbreaks of infectious diseases.

Globally, there are challenges in ensuring equitable access to #vaccines in underserved areas and managing antibiotic resistance amongst other issues.

Hear from A/P Natasha Howard as she shares her expert opinion on these pressing issues.

Photo credit: NUS News

On 8 January 2024, a conferment ceremony was held at the Lao Plaza Hotel for Professor Mayfong Mayxay, Vice President of the University of Health Sciences in Laos PDR. This special event was attended by Professor Teo Yik Ying together with over 50 representatives and leaders, with the aim of fostering future collaborations and strengthening partnerships between the School and institutions in Lao PDR.
Distinguished guests include Professor Bounkong Syhavong, Vice President of the Council of Health Professionals and Former Minister of Health; Dr. Khampasong Setthavanxay, Vice-President of the University of Health Sciences (Lao PDR); Madam Thoummaly Vongphachanh, President of the Cultural & Social Affairs Committee, National Assembly of Lao PDR; Dr. Latsamy Siengsounthone, Director-General of Lao Tropical and Public Health Institute; and Mr. Chew Zhen Hao, Deputy Chief of Mission and Counsellor, Embassy of Singapore to Lao PDR.

Is it appropriate to consider it as a criminal offense if your sexual partner fails to disclose their HIV-positive status?

The Infectious Diseases Act (IDA) currently mandates individuals living with #HIV to disclose their status to their sexual partners, enabling informed decisions and necessary precautions. This is a double edge sword as this legal requirement may discourage people from seeking HIV support and services, conflicting with public health goals.