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Pre-emptive pharmacogenomics (PPGx) involves testing an individual's genes beforehand to identify genetic variations that raise the risk of negative reactions to specific medications. This proactive testing can expedite drug selection in emergencies by identifying suitable medications based on a patient's genetic profile. A pilot study funded by Precision Health Research Singapore (PRECISE) and led by the NUS Medical Organization, including the NUS Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, aims to incorporate pre-emptive pharmacogenomics (PPGx) into routine clinical practise.

Deforestation, driven by agricultural expansion spreads diseases from animals to humans. Destroying biodiversity-rich forests enables diseases to easily transfer from wildlife to humans. To mitigate health risks, urgent global cooperation and proactive measures are needed to address deforestation and its link to disease transmission. Hear from Associate Professor Kimberly Fornace as she sheds light on the critical importance of these efforts in safeguarding human health and preventing further outbreaks.

As dengue cases continue to rise, projections indicate that the Aedes mosquito may potentially impact 60% of the global population by 2080. Implementing a multifaceted approach, including better living standards, urban planning, and mosquito control, is crucial to mitigate dengue risks and its public health impact. Hear from Professor Ooi Eng Eong, as he discuss the critical role of practical public health measures and comprehensive interventions in dengue control, while also considering climate factors in future city planning.

The Asia Centre for Health Security (ACHS) was launched on the 17 April at an inaugural dinner that was attended by Guest of Honour, Adjunct Professor Derrick Heng, Deputy Director-General of Health (Public Health), and representatives from government agencies, academic institutions and delegates from the Southeast Asia Strategic Biosecurity Dialogue organised by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

In 2023, the number of seniors aged 65 and above living alone increased significantly to 78,135, up from 58,000 in 2018. Among those who are married, some may have children who have migrated abroad or live separately from their parents. Additionally, many seniors express their desire to live independently. With these trends, the question arises: who will take care of seniors, and where will they go?

The World Economic Forum reported that #climatechange is likely to cause an additional 14.5 million fatalities and $12.5 trillion in economic losses worldwide by 2050. Climate change can directly and indirectly impact public health, exacerbating half of #infectiousdiseases and affecting both air and water quality. Hear from Assistant Professor Yann Felix Boucher as he delves into the innovative use of data and technology to drive climate change research and discusses the impact of climate change on vulnerable countries.

On 28 March 2024, the Centre for Environment and Occupational Health (CEOH) collaborated with Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) to host a Practice Exam Workshop at the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak. Led by Professor David Koh and Professor Anselm Su, the workshop provided comprehensive preparation for the Membership of the Faculty of Occupational Medicine Objective Structured Practical Examination (MFOM OSPE). It featured case scenarios, patient interactions, report writing exercises, and personalized feedback from experienced professionals. The workshop served as an invaluable resource for candidates taking the MFOM exams, empowering them with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed.

The COVID-19 pandemic showed the detrimental consequences of the lack of understanding of public health measures. Throughout the pandemic, governmental measures such as lockdowns, social distancing, and mask requirements were met with scepticism, doubt and unwillingness to comply. Yet, it was also an opportunity to observe the correlation between the prevalence of public health education and compliance with public health measures. Hence birthed the creation of a card game as an easy and fun way to educate the public about the effectiveness of public health measures in tackling the pandemic and the importance of global cooperation. Hear from Associate Professor Yann Felix Boucher and Dr Anna Szucs as they share more about the Lockdown! Card game in a webinar hosted by the American Society for Microbiology.

On 5 Apr 2024, 27 experts from various Singapore ministries, agencies and hospitals came together to share insights from the latest research on the impacts of vaping and to discuss ways to address the vaping issue in Singapore.

The Centre for Occupational & Environmental Health (CEOH), led by Associate Professor Ng Wee Tong, welcomed a delegation of 22 occupational health nurses from the Department of Public Health Nursing, Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, on 9 April 2024. Their visit was part of a comprehensive study trip aimed at enhancing their knowledge and skills in occupational health. During the trip, they also visited Tan Tock Seng Hospital and Natsteel. It's through meaningful exchanges like these that we foster global #collaboration and advance the field of occupational health. Here's to many more fruitful exchanges in the future!

The global health landscape is evolving, presenting challenges such as climate change, deteriorating macroeconomic conditions, and the need for sustainable health financing. Gavi and its partner countries are facing the need for significant policy shifts to address these challenges and ensure equitable and sustainable immunization. Hear from Professor Alec Morton and other esteemed experts as they outline a proposal for a New Compact between Gavi and partner countries, in line with the core approach of prioritising country ownership and financing of the highest priority vaccines while health aid is provided at the margin.

Amidst the persistent threat of third-hand smoke permeating households, it's crucial to address the hidden health risks lurking within our living spaces. Annually, 1.3 million deaths worldwide underscore the severity of this issue. Although smokers attempt to reduce exposure by smoking in designated areas or opening windows, these measures are inadequate against the detrimental effects of smoke residue. Hear from Assistant Professor Yvette Van Der Eijk, as she delves into the implications of third-hand smoke exposure and unveils strategies for creating smoke-free homes in Singapore.