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Childhood routine jabs pick up after COVID backslide: UN

Routine childhood vaccination rates are improving globally after a decline during the COVID-19 pandemic, but significant gaps remain, with millions of children still missing out on vaccines, particularly in low-income countries, according to the United Nations. While progress has been made, efforts to bridge the disparities in immunization coverage are necessary to protect children from preventable diseases.

World Health Organization officially classifies artificial sweetener “aspartame” as a carcinogen

The World Health Organization (WHO), through its International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), has officially classified aspartame, a widely used artificial sweetener, as a potential carcinogen. This suggests that it could pose a risk for causing cancer in humans. However, the acceptable daily intake limit for aspartame remains at 40 milligrams per kilogram of body weight. This standard has been reaffirmed by the Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA), a scientific advisory body jointly administered by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations.

Young SMA patient’s ongoing campaign aims to raise S$375,000 for vital treatment since March 2023

Despite positive progress in the crowdfunding for baby Lucas, another 24-year-old Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type 2 patient is seeking community help to raise S$375,000 for treatment. The high cost of Risdiplam, an oral medication vital for stabilizing SMA progression, poses a significant obstacle for patients like Ms. Toh in accessing life-saving treatment.

Aspartame sweeteners ‘possibly carcinogenic’, says WHO

The WHO classifies aspartame as “possibly carcinogenic” but advises moderation rather than complete avoidance. Drink water as an alternative.

Health Sciences Authority cracks down on hazardous health products misleadingly marketed as natural

The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) is urgently warning against four health products sold online, following reports of severe side effects. Analysis revealed they contained potent, and in some cases, banned ingredients.

Desperate parents launch S$2.4 million crowdfunding campaign to save baby Lucas from rare genetic disorder

Lucas, a 2-month old baby diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type 1, a rare genetic disorder that requires Zolgensma treatment priced at S$ 2.4 million, which is not subsidised by the government, nor is SMA treatment covered by the Rare Disease Fund. His parents, unable to afford it, appeal for crowdfunding. SMA progressively weakens muscles, robbing him of basic abilities. They seek the compassionate community’s support to give Lucas a fighting chance at life.

Anthrax tragedy in Yogjakarta kills one, 85 infected

Local authorities in Indonesia’s Yogyakarta province reported on Tuesday that one person had been confirmed dead from anthrax while 85 others had been found to be infected after having consumed tainted meat.

Renowned Hong Kong-American singer Coco Lee passed away at 48

Hong Kong-American singer Coco Lee tragically took her own life at the age of 48 after battling depression for years. Known for her powerful songs and dedication to advancing Chinese singers in the international music scene, Coco leaves behind a lasting legacy.

Indonesia faces shortage of specialized doctors, hindering healthcare services

Indonesia’s healthcare services suffer from a shortage of specialized doctors, hindering access to care and uneven distribution across provinces, as stated by Oos Fatimah, the Director of Health Workforce Supply at the Indonesian Ministry of Health.

Singapore polyclinics will reserve slots for urgent walk-in patients and elderly amid online booking challenges

Senior Minister of State for Health, Dr. Janil Puthucheary, assures Members of Parliament that Polyclinics will allocate slots for walk-in patients with urgent medical needs and elderly patients with mobility issues as several MPs addressed the Minister with supplementary questions during the parliamentary session on Tuesday (4 July), highlighting feedback from residents, particularly seniors, who encountered challenges while attempting to book appointments online.