Managing Hypertension: A Guide for Health-Conscious Singaporeans

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common condition affecting millions of people worldwide. In Singapore, hypertension is estimated to be around 37% in 2022 as per the National Population Health Survey. Unmanaged hypertension may lead to a variety of complications/diseases such as heart disease, stroke and renal impairment. Maintaining healthy blood pressure levels is therefore vital for overall well-being.

Causes and Risk Factors of Hypertension:

The actual cause of hypertension is unknown. However, there may be several factors that may increase your risk of developing the condition. These include:

• Age: Your risk of hypertension increases as you get older.
• Family history: If you have a family history of hypertension, you are more likely to develop the condition yourself.
• Race: Hypertension is more common in certain races, such as African Americans and Asians.
• Obesity: Being overweight may also be a major risk factor for hypertension.
• Physical inactivity: Physically inactive individuals are more likely to develop hypertension.
• Smoking: Smoking can increase your risk of hypertension.
• Too much alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol can raise your blood pressure.
• Certain medical conditions: Several medical conditions, such as kidney disease and diabetes, may increase the risk of hypertension.

Potential Complications of Hypertension

If hypertension is not managed correctly, it can lead to several serious health problems, including:

• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Heart failure
• Kidney disease
• Vision problems
• Dementia

Understanding Hypertension

Hypertension is a silent killer, often showing no apparent symptoms until too late. This condition occurs when the blood is pumped around the body at higher pressure, causing potential damage to blood vessels and increasing the risk of kidney failure, coronary heart disease, and stroke until it is too late. But the good news is that you can take control of your hypertension through lifestyle changes, including a heart-healthy diet.

The Power of a Balanced Diet

A balanced diet is the foundation of managing hypertension effectively. Making the right food choices can prevent hypertension and keep your blood pressure in check. Let’s delve into some essential dietary guidelines:

1. Moderate Your Sodium Intake: Sodium, a mineral crucial for normal bodily functions, can increase blood pressure when consumed excessively, particularly in sodium-sensitive individuals. To reduce sodium intake, follow these practical tips:

• When Cooking at Home: Minimise salt, sauces, stock cubes, and seasoning powders. Instead, enhance flavours by using natural herbs and spices like onion, ginger, garlic, chilli, parsley, spring onions, cinnamon, and cloves.
• Eating Out: Request your food to be prepared with less salt and sauces, and avoid drinking soup stocks and sauces, as they often contain high sodium levels.
• Shopping Smart: Choose fresh food whenever possible and read Nutrition Information Panel on food labels to select products with lower sodium content. Look for the Healthier Choice Symbol on products as they contain less sodium.

2. Increase Intake of Fibre-Rich Foods: Foods rich in fibre, magnesium, and potassium have been shown to lower blood pressure. To incorporate more of these heart-healthy nutrients into your diet:

• Opt for whole grains, fruits, and vegetables: Replace refined grains with wholemeal or multigrain options, and choose fruits and vegetables over salty snacks.

3. Limit Fat Intake: Excessive dietary fat can cause weight gain and increase the chances of getting hypertension. Make healthier fat choices with these tips:

• Healthy Cooking Methods: Use less oil when cooking, and choose steaming, boiling, and grilling over deep-frying.
• Lean Protein: Select lean meat or poultry without skin, and limit consumption of deep-fried foods.
• Fat-Free Options: Choose fat-free or lower-fat dairy products like milk and yoghurt, and check food labels for healthier fat options.

4. Limit Alcohol Consumption: Frequent alcohol consumption can elevate blood pressure and adversely affect heart health. If you decide to drink, moderate your intake to no more than one standard daily drink.

5. Lose weight, if Needed: Losing weight, even modestly, can significantly reduce blood pressure. Regular exercise and eating a well-balanced diet may help you maintain a healthy weight and manage hypertension better.

Taking control of hypertension through dietary adjustments is a proactive step towards improving your heart health. Following these dietary guidelines can reduce your risk of developing high blood pressure and even complement medical treatments if you’re already diagnosed with hypertension.

Remember:  Small changes in your diet can significantly improve your overall well-being. Embrace a heart-healthy lifestyle and reap the benefits of a healthier heart and body.

Medication and Monitoring

Sometimes, lifestyle modifications may not be enough to control your hypertension. If so, your doctor may prescribe medication to help lower your blood pressure. It is important to take your medication as prescribed and to monitor your blood pressure regularly.

Hypertension is a serious condition, but you can manage it effectively. By making lifestyle modifications and taking medication as prescribed, you can lower your blood pressure and risk of developing severe health problems.

Are you looking for an affordable, reliable health screening facility in Singapore? Your health is your most valuable asset, and early detection of diseases is vital to maintaining a vibrant and fulfilling life. We understand the importance of preventive care at MHC, so we offer a range of meticulously designed Health Screening packages. These packages are tailored to suit your individual needs and provide essential insights into your health, enabling timely intervention to prevent the development of serious conditions in the future.

Why Choose Health Screening at MHC?

1. Early Detection for Better Prevention: Regular health screenings are proactive measures that empower you to take charge of your well-being. By identifying potential health issues early, you have a higher chance of preventing hypertension from progressing into more severe conditions. Our Health Screening packages are designed to pinpoint the slightest signs of health risks, enabling you to address them promptly and effectively.
2. Tailored to Your Needs: We recognise that each person’s health profile is unique. Our Executive Health Screening packages are thoughtfully curated to address diverse health concerns and risk factors. Whether you’re an individual seeking basic screenings or a company looking for corporate health packages, we have packages that suit your requirements.
3. Location: At MHC, we prioritise the well-being of your employees and strive to provide exceptional care at all our convenient facility locations in Singapore.

Contact us today through our Whatsapp or our Corporate HQ for any questions or enquiries on how you can manage or prevent hypertension.

Preventing Hepatitis: A Comprehensive Guide for Health-Conscious Singaporeans

Hepatitis is a condition characterised by liver inflammation and can be caused by various factors, including viral infections, bacteria, and toxins. Acute Hepatitis is primarily driven by Hepatitis A, B, C, and E viruses, although other non-liver-specific viruses can also trigger it. As for chronic Hepatitis, the most common culprits are the Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C viruses. According to SingHealth, Hepatitis B is the leading cause of chronic viral Hepatitis in Singapore.

Hepatitis Symptoms

Hepatitis A symptoms usually develop within 15 to 50 days after exposure to the virus. They can include:

• Fatigue
• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Dark urine
• Light-coloured stools
• Joint pain
• Abdominal pain
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

Hepatitis B symptoms can develop anywhere from a few weeks to several months after exposure to the virus. They can be similar to the symptoms of hepatitis A, but they can also be more severe. Some people with hepatitis B may not have any symptoms at all.

Hepatitis C symptoms can develop for weeks, months, or even years. Many people with hepatitis C never develop any symptoms. When symptoms occur, they can be similar to the symptoms of hepatitis A or B.

Hepatitis D symptoms are the same as the symptoms of hepatitis B. However, hepatitis D can only occur in people infected with hepatitis B.

Hepatitis E symptoms are fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, pale stools, and jaundice.

Hepatitis Transmission

Hepatitis A is spread through the faecal-oral route which can be transmitted through stool contact with an infected person. This often happens from contaminated food or water or close personal contact, such as sexual contact or sharing needles.

Hepatitis B is spread by getting contact with infected blood or body fluids. This can happen through sharing needles, through sexual contact, from mother to child during childbirth, or through medical procedures involving using contaminated needles or equipment.

Hepatitis C is often spread through contact with infected blood. However, it is less easily transmitted than hepatitis B. At times, it is spread through sexual contact but is less common.

Hepatitis D can only occur in people already infected with hepatitis B. It is spread through the same routes as hepatitis B, including sharing needles, sexual contact, and from mother to child during childbirth.

Preventing Hepatitis

Hepatitis A Prevention

• Get vaccinated against hepatitis A.
• Practice good hygiene, including regular handwashing with soap and water.
• Avoid consuming contaminated food or water.
• Practice safe and protected sex and avoid sharing personal items like toothbrushes and razors.

Hepatitis B Prevention

• Get vaccinated against hepatitis B.
• Use barrier methods (condoms) during sexual activity.
• Avoid sharing needles or personal items that may come into contact with blood or body fluids.
• If pregnant, ensure prenatal screening and take appropriate measures to prevent transmission to the baby.

Hepatitis C Prevention

There is no vaccine for hepatitis C, so focus on prevention measures for hepatitis B and safe sex practices to reduce transmission risks.

Hepatitis D Prevention

As hepatitis D can only occur in individuals already infected with hepatitis B, preventing hepatitis B transmission is the primary preventive measure.

Hepatitis E Prevention

Avoid consuming contaminated water and practice good hygiene when handling food.

Diagnosing Hepatitis

Some diagnostic tests can detect Hepatitis. The type of test used will depend on the type of Hepatitis that is suspected:

Hepatitis A

The most common test for hepatitis A is an antibody test. This test measures the antibodies to the Hepatitis A virus in your blood. Antibodies are proteins your body produces as a response to an infection. If you have antibodies to hepatitis A, you have been infected with the virus at some point.

Hepatitis B

Many different tests can be used to diagnose hepatitis B. These tests include:

• Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg): This test measures the levels of HBsAg in the blood. HBsAg is a protein that is produced by the hepatitis B virus. If you have HBsAg in your blood, you are currently infected with the virus.
• Hepatitis B core antibody (HBcAb): This test measures the levels of HBcAb in the blood. HBcAb is an antibody that the body produces in response to the hepatitis B core protein. If you have HBcAb in your blood, you have been infected with the virus at some point.
• Hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg): This test measures the levels of HBeAg in the blood. HBeAg is a protein that is produced by the hepatitis B virus. If you have HBeAg in your blood, it means that you are currently infected with the virus and that the virus is actively replicating.
• Hepatitis B DNA: This test measures the levels of hepatitis B DNA in the blood. Hepatitis B DNA is the genetic material of the hepatitis B virus. If you have hepatitis B DNA in your blood, you are currently infected with the virus.

Hepatitis C

The most common test for hepatitis C is an antibody test. This test measures the antibodies to the hepatitis C virus. Antibodies are proteins your body produces as a response to an infection. If you have antibodies to hepatitis C, you have been infected with the virus at some point.

Hepatitis D

The only way to diagnose hepatitis D is to test for both hepatitis B and hepatitis D. If you have hepatitis B, you can be tested for hepatitis D by measuring the levels of hepatitis D antigen (HDAg) in the blood. HDAg is a protein that is produced by the hepatitis D virus. If you have HDAg in your blood, it means that you are currently infected with both hepatitis B and hepatitis D.

Hepatitis E

The most common test for hepatitis E is an antibody test. This test measures the antibodies to the hepatitis E virus in the blood. Antibodies are proteins your body produces as a response to an infection. If you have antibodies to hepatitis E, you have been infected with the virus at some point.

Medical Tests for Hepatitis

Liver Function Tests

• These tests measure liver enzymes and proteins in the blood to assess liver health and function.

Hepatitis Serology Tests

• Serology tests detect antibodies specific to each hepatitis virus and help diagnose the type of hepatitis infection.

Liver Biopsy

• A liver biopsy involves removing a small tissue sample from the liver for examination under a microscope to assess liver damage and inflammation.

Vaccinations for Hepatitis

Hepatitis A vaccine

Hepatitis A is a two-dose vaccine- the first dose is given as an injection, and the second dose is given 6-12 months later. The vaccine is about 95% effective in preventing hepatitis A.

Hepatitis B vaccine

The hepatitis B vaccine is a three-dose vaccine. The first dose is given as an injection, and the second and third doses are delivered 1-2 months and six months later. The vaccine is about 95% effective in preventing hepatitis B.

It is recommended to get vaccinated for all children at the following ages:

• 12 months of age
• 18 months of age
• 4-6 years of age

The hepatitis A and B vaccines are also recommendable for adults who are at increased risk of infection, such as:

• People who travel to countries where hepatitis A or B is common
• People who work in healthcare or other settings where they may be exposed to blood or body fluids
• People who have sex with multiple partners
• People who use illegal drugs

If you are concerned about your risk of hepatitis A or B, talk to your doctor. They can recommend the appropriate vaccines for you.

Hepatitis C, D, and E

There is no vaccine available for hepatitis C, D, or E. However, there are treatments available for hepatitis C. If you are concerned about your risk of hepatitis C, our General Practitioners are available for consult. We can recommend appropriate testing and treatment options for you.

Where to Get Tested for Hepatitis in Singapore

MHC offers vaccinations for Hepatitis A and B in our clinics. You may book an appointment at Amara Medical Centre or Novena clinic. Alternatively, you may also contact our clinics for the latest update on the available vaccinations. Hepatitis is preventable through vaccination, safe practices, and good hygiene. Early detection through medical testing is crucial for effective treatment and preventing severe complications. Singaporeans should take proactive measures to safeguard their health by vaccinating, practising safe behaviours, and seeking medical attention promptly. By doing so, they can significantly reduce the risk of Hepatitis and maintain a healthy and fulfilling life.

For Corporate Healthcare programme enquiries, please contact our Corporate HQ for questions and enquiries about corporate healthcare programs, including Vaccinations, Executive Health Screenings, GP Services, or Weight management programmes

Combating Fatty Liver: Healthy Habits for Health-Conscious Singaporeans

The liver is vital as your body’s primary cleaning and processing hub.

One of the liver’s essential functions is detoxification, which eliminates toxins from the bloodstream from sources like contaminated food, alcohol, and medications. Moreover, a healthy liver regulates blood sugar (glucose) levels and filters out bilirubin from the bloodstream. Bilirubin is a by-product resulting from the normal breakdown of red blood
cells.

Furthermore, the liver is responsible for processing food, extracting essential nutrients, and producing bile necessary for digesting fatty foods. It also acts as a storage centre for any surplus nutrients.

Fatty liver is a condition when there is excessive fat in your liver. It is a silent disease, meaning it often does not cause symptoms in the early stages. However, if left untreated, fatty liver disease may often lead to serious health concerns, such as liver cirrhosis and liver cancer.

Causes of Fatty Liver Disease 

Here are some causes of fatty liver disease:
– Obesity
– Overweight
– Type 2 diabetes
– High blood cholesterol
– High triglycerides
– Alcohol abuse
– Certain medications
– Some medical conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Symptoms of Fatty Liver Disease

In the early stages, fatty liver disease often does not cause any symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, some people may experience the following symptoms:
– Fatigue
– Weight loss
– Pain in the upper right abdomen
– Jaundice
– Nausea and vomiting
– Dark urine

Treatment for Fatty Liver Disease

Fatty liver treatment depends on the disease’s severity and underlying cause. In some cases, no treatment is necessary. However, if the condition is more advanced, treatment may include:
– Weight loss
– Exercise
– A healthy diet
– Medications to lower cholesterol and triglycerides
– Alcohol cessation

Healthy Habits for Health-Conscious Singaporeans

1. Eating a well-balanced Diet and Portion Control: A balanced diet is crucial in combating fatty liver. Aim to eat various vegetables, whole grains, fruits, lean protein, and healthy fat in your daily diet. Avoid too much consumption of sugary and processed foods, as they can contribute to fat accumulation in the liver. Additionally, practising portion control helps manage calorie intake and prevents overloading the liver with excessive fats and sugars.
2. Have regular Physical Activity: It is essential for maintaining a healthy liver. As recommended by health experts, doing at least 2 hours of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or at least 2 hours and a half of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise per week may be helpful. Activities like brisk walking, jogging, cycling, and swimming can significantly improve liver function and reduce the risk of fatty liver disease.
3. Limit Alcohol Consumption: Too much alcohol consumption is a leading cause of fatty liver disease. For those who consume alcohol, it is essential to do so in moderation. The recommended limits are one standard drink for women (per day) and up to two standard drinks for men (per day). Better yet, consider reducing alcohol intake or opting for non-alcoholic beverages altogether.
4. Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is vital for overall health, including liver function. Water helps flush out toxins from the body and aids digestion, preventing unnecessary stress on the liver. Aim to drink an adequate amount of water daily and reduce the intake of sugary beverages.
5. Avoid Smoking: Smoking harms your lungs and adversely affects liver health. Smoking increases oxidative stress, damaging the liver and impairing natural detoxification processes. If you are a smoker, seek support to quit and improve your liver’s overall well-being.
6. Manage Stress: Chronic stress can hurt liver health. Do stress-reducing activities such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, or time in nature. Proper stress management promotes a healthy liver and overall well-being.
7. Regular Health Check-ups: Regular health check-ups are essential for monitoring liver health and detecting potential issues early on. If you have a family history of liver disease or other risk factors, consider getting liver function tests and follow-up with your healthcare provider regularly.

Diagnosis of Fatty Liver Disease

Fatty liver disease is often diagnosed with blood tests, ultrasound, and liver biopsy.

• Blood tests: can measure liver enzymes, which are proteins released when the liver is damaged. You may have fatty liver disease if you have high levels of liver enzymes. Blood testing is the most common way to diagnose fatty liver disease, including ALT, AST, and GGT.

• • Ultrasound: is a non-invasive imaging test that can be used to view the liver. Ultrasound can measure the amount of fat in the liver and look for signs of liver damage. Ultrasound is a commonly used imaging test used to diagnose fatty liver disease.
  • Liver biopsy: a procedure where they take a small sample of liver tissue and examine it under a microscope. This procedure can be used to confirm the diagnosis of fatty liver disease and to assess the severity of the disease. It is the most accurate test for diagnosing fatty liver disease but is also the most invasive.

MHC offers weight management programmes that combine injectable or oral treatments with a complimentary workout session. The goal of managing and treating weight gain is not simply to lose weight but to improve overall health and lower the risks of other health complications. From the initial consultation to follow-ups, our program will continue to help patients control and manage weight, a great way to avoid liver disease.

To book an appointment for weight management programme, you may book at Amara Clinic or contact our clinics for your Personal Health Screenings. For Corporate Healthcare programme enquiries, please contact our Corporate HQ for questions and enquiries about corporate healthcare programs, including Executive Health Screenings, GP Services, or Weight management programmes. Staying healthy and active helps promote a healthy liver.

Staying healthy and active helps promote a healthy liver. Please chat with us through
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