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Singapore’s Minister for Health, Ong Ye Kung, has outlined a multifaceted approach to address critical health issues by investing in research and promoting healthier lifestyles. The healthcare system’s clinical care excellence is just the beginning of its mission to combat health challenges effectively.
Over the past seven years, the Ministry of Health’s National Medical Research Council (NMRC) has allocated approximately S$180 million for cardiovascular-related research. Among these initiatives is Project RESET, led by Professor Roger Foo and his team at the Cardiovascular-Metabolic Disease Translational Research Programme. This ambitious project aims to uncover the subtle signs of heart disease, a notorious silent killer.
Heart disease often progresses quietly, unbeknownst to individuals, owing to factors like poor diet, inactivity, and genetic predisposition. Project RESET strives to identify cardio-liver-metabolic biomarkers in asymptomatic individuals with heart disease, potentially unmasking this silent threat.
Over 10,000 Singaporeans will participate, contributing a wealth of data encompassing genetics, clinical records, and lifestyle information. Researchers will then employ Artificial Intelligence (AI) to analyse this trove of data, seeking early warnings that can revolutionise heart disease management.
This forward-thinking approach doesn’t stop at research but extends to lifestyle choices. Minister Ong emphasises that embracing healthier lifestyles can significantly reduce the risk of chronic diseases, underlining the importance of prevention over cure.
Recent surveys by the Ministry of Health have unveiled concerning statistics about the lifestyles of Singaporeans. Although there have been some gains in reducing diabetes cases due to heightened awareness of sugar intake, the fight against lifestyle-related health issues is ongoing. Alarming data reveals that an average of six individuals are diagnosed with kidney failure daily, emphasising the pressing need to address these health concerns.
Additionally, approximately one-third of Singaporeans currently suffer from high blood cholesterol, a statistic that has stubbornly persisted over time. The most alarming revelation is the prevalence of hypertension, which has nearly doubled since 2010. Hypertension and high cholesterol significantly contribute to heart disease and stroke, largely stemming from dietary habits and lifestyle choices.
Hence, leveraging AI in healthcare research is of paramount importance due to its potential to usher in a new era of improved patient care and outcomes. AI’s ability to detect diseases at their earliest stages can lead to more effective treatments and better chances of recovery as well and it enables personalised medicine, tailoring treatment plans to individual patients based on their unique genetic and clinical profiles, minimising side effects, and optimising therapeutic efficacy.
Likewise, AI-driven drug discovery accelerates the development of new medications, significantly shortening the time and cost associated with bringing innovative drugs to market. This not only benefits patients by providing access to novel treatments but also fosters continuous advancements in medical science. Also, AI aids in the efficient management of healthcare resources, streamlining administrative tasks, optimising patient scheduling, and reducing overall costs, which can make quality healthcare more accessible and affordable for a broader segment of the population.
AI’s role in healthcare extends beyond diagnostics and treatment to encompass predictive analytics, remote monitoring, research acceleration, and data-driven decision-making. As healthcare systems globally grapple with the challenges of an ageing population and increasing healthcare demands, the integration of AI stands as a crucial step toward a future where healthcare is more efficient, effective, and patient-centric.
Minister Ong’s comprehensive approach underscores the importance of research and lifestyle changes in the pursuit of better health outcomes. As Singapore leverages AI for early disease detection and embraces healthier choices, it paves the way for a brighter, healthier future for all its residents.
