Threats to our national security may come in many forms, including from the digital domain. The more digitally connected and technologically advanced the world becomes, the greater our vulnerability to cyberattacks, online scams, fake news, and so on. These threats can disrupt our personal safety and way of life, as well as undermine our social cohesion and strike at the confidence and psychological resilience of our people.

This is why we can’t ignore Digital Defence – one of the six “pillars” of Singapore’s Total Defence strategy, which involves the participation of every Singaporean in the collective effort of building a strong, secure and cohesive nation.

The number of scams in Singapore has been growing. According to the Singapore Police Force, victims lost a record high of over $385.6 million in the first six months of 2024 – an increase of 16.3% compared to the same period in 2023. The most common scams included e-commerce scams, phishing scams, investment scams, government official impersonation scams, and loan scams.  

As AI (artificial intelligence) technology becomes more pervasive, we also have to be concerned about AI-generated “deepfakes”, which can trick us into parting with our money or sharing personal or sensitive information with scammers, and which may even threaten our national security.

We asked a cyber-security expert to share some tips for guarding against common digital threats.

1. Be wary of AI deepfakes

“Deepfakes created by AI are a serious concern because they can create highly realistic audio and video content that convincingly mimics real people,” says Nikhil Bhardwaj, Project Manager and Sales Consultant at Cybersafe Pte Ltd. 

Some common manipulation techniques include: 

• Impersonation for fraud: Deepfakes can be used to impersonate trusted figures such as bank officials, company executives, or even family members. This can lead to fraudulent transactions or misinformation campaigns.
• Undermining trust: When video or audio evidence can be fabricated, it becomes increasingly difficult to trust digital communications. This erosion of trust is a major issue for businesses, governments, and personal interactions alike.
• Difficulty in detection: As deepfake technology advances, distinguishing between authentic and manipulated content becomes challenging – even for experts. This increases the risk of successful scams, as victims may be misled by convincing “proof” generated by cybercriminals.

“In short, deepfakes open up new avenues for sophisticated scams that require both advanced detection techniques and public awareness,” Nikhil adds.

AI-generated deepfakes can be hard to detect, but according to the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore, there are some ways to tell if the multimedia you’re looking at is real or not: 

• Assess the message: Check its source, context and aim. For instance, is the source trustworthy? Does the content read or behave as expected? And does the message ask you to do something urgently, unsafe, or unusual? 
• Analyse audio-visual elements: Look for inconsistencies or discrepancies in facial features, expression and eye movement, skin texture and tone, background, and audio-video quality. 
• Authenticate the content: Deepfake detection tools for the general consumer are only just emerging. In the meantime, you can look out for tags or watermarks which indicate if the content you’re looking at is AI-generated.

2. Shop safely online

Shopping online is a favourite pastime for many of us, but don’t fall victim to scammers and fraudsters. 

For example, Nikhil says that when you’re browsing an online store, the first indicator of security is the URL – make sure it begins with “https://” (the “s” stands for secure) and that you see the padlock icon in your browser’s address bar. 

He says that other red flags include:

• Outdated design and poor functionality: If the site looks unpolished or is riddled with pop-ups and excessive ads, it might not have been maintained with modern security practices.
• Unnecessary information requests: Be cautious if the website asks for more personal or financial information than is typical for the transaction.  

3. Protect against these scams when banking online

With most of us doing our banking online, it’s important to distinguish between phishing and spamming. Nikhil explains: 

• Phishing: This is a tactic where attackers send fraudulent emails or messages, or even create fake websites that appear to be from trusted institutions – such as your bank – in order to trick you into revealing sensitive data such as login credentials or financial information.
• Spamming: Spamming involves the mass distribution of unsolicited emails or messages, which often serve as a vehicle for phishing attempts or the dissemination of malicious links and attachments.

“In the context of online banking, these methods can be used to impersonate your financial institution. An email might look like it’s coming from your bank, urging you to update your details or verify a transaction – only to direct you to a counterfeit site designed to harvest your credentials,” he adds.

Here are Nikhil’s tips to protect yourself:

• Verify the source: Always double-check the sender’s email address or contact details. If in doubt, contact the institution directly using known, trusted channels.
• Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): This adds an extra layer of security even if your password is compromised.
• Keep software up-to-date: Updated anti-malware and spam filtering tools can help catch suspicious activity before it reaches you.
• Be sceptical: Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources, and always check for the “https://” prefix and padlock symbol before entering any personal information.

4. Reinforce security measures on your devices

Protecting your devices is about layering defences, says Nikhil. This can help minimise your exposure to online threats, fraud and scams. 

Here’s what you can do: 

• Keep software updated: Regularly update your operating systems, applications, and antivirus software to patch vulnerabilities.
• Use strong, unique passwords and MFA: Use strong, unique passwords for every account and enable MFA wherever possible.
• Use firewalls and VPNs: Activate built-in firewalls and use reputable VPN services – especially when accessing public Wi-Fi – to safeguard your Internet connection.
• Backup regularly and use encryption: Backup your important data regularly and consider encrypting sensitive files.
• Be cautious with downloads: Only install apps and software from reputable sources to avoid inadvertently introducing malware.

5. Be mindful of what you share on social media

“Social media is an excellent tool for connection, but oversharing can be a gateway for cybercriminals,” Nikhil points out. 

Avoid sharing the following, he says: 

• Personal details: This includes sensitive information such as your home address, phone number, and even your full date of birth. These can be exploited for identity theft.
• Travel plans: Publicly posting vacation plans or travel itineraries can alert potential burglars that your home is unoccupied.
• Financial information: Details about your income, investments, or even hints about your financial status should be kept private.
• Real-time location data: Photos and posts that reveal your current location (especially if geo-tagging is enabled) can put you at risk.
• Work-related confidential information: Oversharing details about your workplace or projects can inadvertently provide a roadmap for targeted attacks.

“By managing your privacy settings and being selective about what you share, you can better protect your personal and financial safety,” Nikhil adds.

6. Keep your non-digitally savvy loved ones safe from online scams

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People who are less familiar with digital environments, including many seniors, can be particularly vulnerable to online scams, Nikhil says. 

Here are some scams they may fall prey to: 

• Phishing emails and scam calls: They might receive emails or phone calls that impersonate government agencies, banks, or even family members, urging them to share sensitive information or transfer funds.
• Tech support scams: Fraudsters often pose as technical support agents, convincing individuals that their devices are infected and persuading them to install malicious software or provide remote access.
• Romance and charity scams: Exploiting emotions, scammers might create elaborate stories on social media or dating sites to build trust and eventually ask for money.
• Fake websites and online ads: Unsophisticated users might not notice subtle discrepancies in website URLs or design, leading them to fraudulent sites that mimic legitimate businesses.

Nikhil shares some ways to mitigate these risks:

• Education and awareness: Regularly educate vulnerable loved ones on common scam tactics. Local community centres or libraries sometimes offer sessions on digital literacy and online safety.
• Simplified security tools: Encourage the use of simplified security applications that can help filter out spam and malicious content.
• Trusted contacts: Advise vulnerable loved ones to verify unsolicited requests by contacting a trusted friend, family member, or the relevant institution directly.

Want more articles like this, and other lifestyle content right in your inbox? Download the new SAFRA mobile app and opt in for the eNSman Newsletter – you don’t need to be a SAFRA member to subscribe – and never miss another story!

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Total Defence involves every Singaporean playing a part, individually and collectively, to build a strong, secure and cohesive nation – because when we are strong, we are able to deal with any crisis.

There are six “pillars” of Total Defence, one of which is Economic Defence. This pillar is about strengthening the competitiveness and attractiveness of our economy, ensuring that it not only continues to be successful but also stays resilient, so that it can recover quickly should we face economic uncertainty in the future (such as if there is a global downturn or economic crisis that could shake investor confidence in Singapore).

There are many ways to put Economic Defence into action, and we can start at home – because when Singaporean families are financially strong and resilient, we help bolster the country’s economic strength and resilience, too. 

Here are six ideas to protect your family’s wealth and help your loved ones survive any financial storm. 

1. Save and invest wisely

We all know that saving more and spending less can help us manage our finances and contribute to wealth-building. Ow Tai Zhi, the co-founder and chief investment officer for AutoWealth, recommends being disciplined about these habits. 

“Keep a close eye on your spending and always set a clear spending limit. A good budgeting framework is the 50/30/20 rule – allocate 50% of your income to needs, 30% to wants, and the last 20% to savings and investments. ‘Needs’ are things that you cannot do without, like housing, whereas ‘wants’ are those you can get by without, such as staying in a condo with a pool. If you want to achieve financial independence and retire early, you should adjust this ratio and aim to save one dollar for every dollar you spend.”

You should also keep investing throughout your life and not just stop once your investment has matured, he adds.

“There are people who will invest and stop investing, and others who’ll invest and keep investing. Saving and investing regularly is a disciplined way of building wealth over the long term by eliminating the hassle and emotional fear of trying to time the market. It helps to smooth out market fluctuations by averaging out your cost of investment, leading to better returns.”

New to investing? Here’s what you need to know.

2. Set aside money for a rainy day

You can’t always guarantee that you’ll be able to provide for your family. That’s why it’s important to protect your family’s finances as early as you can, especially if you’re the main or sole breadwinner. 

For those “rainy days”, for instance, Tai Zhi recommends starting an emergency fund. Stashing away a substantial amount of money can safeguard your family against unforeseen situations – such as if you get injured and can no longer work. It also doubles as a war-chest, allowing you to capitalise on market discounts from time to time to enhance your investment returns. 

“It’s a good idea to put aside an amount equivalent to six’ months of expenditures,” he says. 

“This will give you enough time to come up with alternative ways to earn extra money and also serve as a buffer in unforeseen situations, like if you fall ill for a prolonged period or find yourself unemployed for some time.”

3. Create a will

Always prepare for the unexpected, Tai Zhi notes. Establishing legal arrangements, such as a will, Advance Medical Directive (AMD), and Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA), will ensure that your estate is distributed according to your wishes and that your loved ones will be looked after. 

Don’t delay putting your will together. Wills aren’t just for older people who are close to retirement. You can create one even if you’re just starting out in your career.

“Establish a will as early as possible and make it as clear, elaborate and practical as possible, particularly if you have dependents like young or vulnerable children or elderly parents, or if you’re your family’s sole breadwinner,” Tai Zhi advises. 

Find out more about making a will and legacy planning here.

4. Pay off your debts

Accruing debts can affect your ability to become financially independent and retire early, says Tai Zhi. 

“In June 2013, the Monetary Authority of Singapore introduced a Total Debt Servicing Ratio (TDSR) to limit loans granted by financial institutions to 60% of an individual’s monthly income. This measure, which was later revised to a more stringent 55%, aims to encourage financial prudence.”

But Tai Zhi recommends taking an even more prudent approach towards incurring and paying off debts. 

“The first material loan you incur should always be a mortgage loan to provide a roof over your head. This is a need. When your financial situation permits, you can then take up a loan for your wants, be it a fancy home renovation or that flashy car you’ve had your eye on. Then, adapt the 50/30/20 budgeting rule – limit your debt payments to within 50% of your income, keep needs and wants within the 30% threshold, and strive to keep to the 20% savings and investment goal.”

Tai Zhi advises against taking out a credit card loan as it’s not prudent and bears very high interest rates. 

5. Invest in an insurance plan

Nothing is certain in life – severe illness, disability, job loss, and loss of life can occur at any time. A good insurance plan gives you peace of mind that your family will be financially secure should something happen to you and you can no longer look after them. It will also safeguard your family’s finances, so that your loved ones won’t have to dip into your savings to get through the tough times. 

There are several types of insurance available, like health, critical illness, hospitalisation and personal accident, to name a few. It’s a good idea to speak to an insurance specialist to decide what plan or policy works best for you and your family.

6. Teach your kids about money

Children are never too young to develop good financial habits. Encourage your kids to start saving their allowance, teach them the difference between a “want” and a “need”, show them how to budget, discuss ways to earn money, and educate them on the importance of setting financial goals and establishing an emergency fund.  

Teaching financial savviness to your little ones gives them the tools, skills and knowledge that they need to be resilient when confronted with economic challenges when they’re older. 

Here’s how to teach your kids to be money-smart.

Want more articles like this, and other lifestyle content right in your inbox? Download the new SAFRA mobile app and opt in for the eNSman Newsletter – you don’t need to be a SAFRA member to subscribe – and never miss another story!

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Are you still making resolutions to grow your money or enhance your financial situation in 2025? It’s not just about saving more and spending less. Sure, these are important for having extra money to spend on personal and family pursuits and to avoid falling into debt, but they’re not always enough if you’re looking to improve your overall financial well-being in the long run. 

From setting clear financial goals to creating an emergency fund, here are eight expert tips to help you get on the road to financial stability and freedom. 

1. Understand what it means to be financially “fit”

According to Ow Tai Zhi, the co-founder and chief investment officer for robo-advisory platform AutoWealth, being financially fit means having adequate money set aside for unforeseen emergencies, catering adequately for your family’s insurance and protection needs, and not being indebted to anyone. When you are financially fit, you’re in a better position to build wealth over the long term and gain financial independence. 

2. Define your financial goals

“It’s good to have resolutions, but resolutions can become unachievable, too boring or too uninspiring after a while,” says Tai Zhi. 

Instead, set well-defined financial goals. They should be easy to follow so that you don’t give up on them. Here, Tai Zhi shares a few pointers for creating these goals: 

• The goal should be quantifiable and have a clear timeline – for example, setting aside or adding a certain amount of money to your investment portfolio by the end of the year.
• The goal should be inspiring or contribute towards something inspiring, like adding to your investment portfolio so that you can be financially independent at 50 years old. 

“And who doesn’t want to be financially independent and enjoy life at 50?” Tai Zhi asks.

• Beyond good goal-setting, tracking your progress at regular intervals is equally important. Tracking not only helps you to celebrate interim milestones, it also keeps you accountable and enables adjustments so that you don’t fall short.

3. Open an emergency fund for unforeseen expenses

“An emergency fund not only prepares you for unforeseen situations; it also doubles as a war chest to help you capitalise on market discounts from time to time to enhance investment returns,” Tai Zhi explains. 

“It’s good to set aside an amount equivalent to six months’ of expenditures. These funds will keep you afloat during an emergency, such as if you fall ill and have to stop working for a while.”

Here’s how to plan ahead and protect your family’s assets and wealth.

4. Manage financial stress

Financial stress is real for many people, especially with the rising cost of living. Tai Zhi says that awareness is the first step to overcoming this stress. 

“Identifying the source of your financial stress allows you to create a plan to address your concerns. So, organise and take stock of your finances and make a list of the financial struggles that concern you the most,” he advises. 

“Tackle each financial problem slowly, one at a time. You may need to find additional sources of income and defer non-urgent, non-critical discretionary spending. 

“Along the way, do not neglect your health. This means following a healthy diet, getting adequate sleep and exercising regularly to help you manage your stress.

“Setting aside an emergency fund can also help ease your stress about unforeseen expenses. And consider purchasing insurance to protect yourself and your loved ones against unexpected emergencies. These financial safety nets will give you a sense of security and peace-of-mind.”

5. Differentiate between wants and needs

Knowing what you want and what you need makes it easier to stick to your financial goals. 

Tai Zhi says that needs are things you can’t do without – like housing, for instance – whereas wants are those you can get by without, like staying in a condo with a pool. 

A good budgeting framework is the 50/30/20 rule: Setting aside 50% of your income for needs, 30% for wants and the remaining 20% for savings and investments. 

“If you want to achieve financial independence and retire early, you should adjust this ratio by cutting down on your wants and increasing your savings and investments,” Tai Zhi adds.

Can’t seem to save? Find out about the 8 bad money habits that could be hurting you financially.

6. Understand the risks involved in investing

No financial product can be 100% profitable all of the time. 

Tai Zhi says that you should only make an informed investment decision after you fully understand the investment product and the risks associated with it. 

“This will help you manage your expectations and ensure that the risks are tolerable to you. The last thing you want is to panic and cut your losses when an eventual rebound is right around the corner.”

7. Protect yourself with insurance

“Insurance is useful to protect against unforeseen emergencies,” says Tai Zhi. 

“Having this financial safety net provides a sense of security and peace of mind, not only for you but also your loved ones.”

8. Be a savvy saver, but remember to enjoy your journey to financial fitness

When it comes to saving money, it’s important to be consistent and disciplined. Tai Zhi advises you to save at least a dollar for every dollar you spend. You should also be focused – before making any purchases, set a clear spending limit to avoid going over your budget. 

You may also wish to find good alternatives to growing your savings. Tai Zhi says that cash management solutions like AutoWealth Flexi Cash or money market funds can help you earn an attractive yield of more than 3% per annum.

Of course, becoming financially fit shouldn’t leave you feeling like you have to wait until retirement to enjoy your money. 

“I recommend celebrating interim milestones along your journey to motivate yourself to keep going,” Tai Zhi explains. 

“For example, take your family out for a fancy dinner to celebrate your investment gains made in 2024. Also consider exciting challenges, such as not spending a cent on payday or drinking only water instead of buying soft drinks or bubble tea, which can add up to quite a bit over the week.”

Want more articles like this, and other lifestyle content right in your inbox? Download the new SAFRA mobile app and opt in for the eNSman Newsletter – you don’t need to be a SAFRA member to subscribe – and never miss another story!

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The festive shopping season is upon us, with sales for Singles’ Day, Black Friday and Cyber Monday in full swing. Everyone loves a good deal – but how do you know you’re getting value for money? From comparing prices and making use of loyalty programmes, to buying in bulk and choosing quality over quantity, we share six tips for bagging a bargain and making smarter shopping decisions. 

1. Buy the best-quality items you can afford

Just because something is cheap, it doesn’t mean it’s a good buy. When you come across something you need or want that’s low-priced, check its quality first. Is it well-made? Can you see yourself using it for a long time? It’s also a good idea to read reviews of the product and to ask the retailer or manufacturer if the item comes with a warranty. 

Examples of poor-quality items include clothing that’s badly stitched and made from cheap materials that fade or shrink after a couple of washes; toys that break easily; electrical items that have a poor battery life or slow performance or that are unreliable; and furniture that’s badly designed or constructed. If you end up having to discard these products shortly after you’ve bought them, then you’re wasting your money. 

Where possible, go for top-quality products that are well-designed and crafted from good materials, says Ow Tai Zhi, the co-founder and chief investment officer for robo-advisory platform AutoWealth. 

“In some cases, quality items can be a smarter financial choice. Think of them as an investment. They may cost you a bit more, but they’re likely to last longer and be more reliable, so they’re money well-spent.”

2. Only buy what you need at the sales

Sales can be a good opportunity to save money, but Tai Zhi warns against filling your cart just because those items have been marked down. Instead, ask yourself whether you really need them. If you do, then go ahead and stock up on them. Smart buys may include toiletries and personal care items, household products and pantry staples – things that you use and buy regularly. 

“We often trick ourselves into thinking we’re saving money when we purchase products that are on sale, but if you don’t need those items then you’re just throwing your money away,” Tai Zhi adds. 

Get more tips on how to shop smarter at sales.

3. Delay big purchases

There are few things worse than splurging on a big-ticket item like a fridge, smart TV, computer, bed or sofa, only to regret your decision a few days later. 

When it comes to making such major purchases, Tai Zhi advises you to think carefully first and to resist the urge to get the item as quickly as possible.   

“You want to make sure you’re spending your money wisely, so ask yourself if the item is really worth it and perhaps look around for a better deal. You may end up deciding that you don’t need or want it, or you may come across a lower price elsewhere.”

4. Compare deals from different sellers or retailers

No matter how much an item costs, it pays to shop around, says Tai Zhi. If you’re on the hunt for a specific product, find out how much it costs across various retailers and sellers. You never know – it may be much cheaper elsewhere. 

Additionally, if you notice that the product you want is cheaper at a particular store, ask if you can get a refund on the difference from a competing store that’s selling the same item. That way, you’ll know you’re getting the best deal possible. 

5. Use cashback, reward and loyalty programmes

“Sign up for credit card reward programmes or cashback offers to maximise the value on the purchases you’d make anyway,” Tai Zhi says. 

He explains that there are typically two categories of rewards:

Cashback: This gives you back a percentage of your spending (typically 1% to 5%). Higher cashback credit cards usually come with strict conditions.

Mileage rewards: Earn miles whenever you spend and redeem them the next time you travel. This is a good option for people who travel overseas frequently.  

Many retailers also have loyalty programmes that award you points when you shop. Depending on the programme, points that you’ve earned can later be converted to shopping vouchers or discounts. This is ideal if you shop regularly at that particular retailer.   

If you’re a SAFRA member, you can also save extra money by taking advantage of the various promotions online at safra.sg/promotions. Get great deals at restaurants, hotels, gyms, spas, malls, sportswear retailers, tech retailers, and more.  

Learn how you can make using your credit card more rewarding for the whole family.

6. Buy more, save more

Cut your spending with “buy more, save more” deals. Sometimes, retailers offer discounts if you purchase more than one of the same or a similar item. The more you buy, the bigger the discount. This is especially useful if you use that particular product regularly and have a reason to purchase it in bulk. 

Group-buy or collective-buy deals are another way to get a great bargain, as they help reduce costs for the retailer or manufacturer. Group buying involves several people banding together to place bulk orders for certain products. Group-buy deals are often available for groceries, electronics, home appliances, and furniture. 

Here are more shopping hacks to maximise your savings.

Want more articles like this, and other lifestyle content right in your inbox? Download the new SAFRA mobile app and opt in for the eNSman Newsletter – you don’t need to be a SAFRA member to subscribe – and never miss another story!

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World Diabetes Day is a global awareness campaign focusing on diabetes; it is commemorated every year on 14 November. 

This is an important healthcare event because the number of diabetes cases – particularly Type 2 diabetes – keeps rising every year. 

Diabetes is a disease that occurs when your blood glucose, also called blood sugar, is too high. In Singapore, the condition affects about 10.5% of residents, with higher rates observed in Malays and Indians, says Dr Melvyn Wong, Family Physician and Consultant, Raffles Medical. 

“The prevalence has been increasing and is projected to affect over a million residents by 2050,” he adds. 

To understand the risk factors and find out how to prevent and manage diabetes, read on.  

1. Unhealthy lifestyle habits may raise your risk of Type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic condition. Dr Wong says that it is often triggered by an unhealthy lifestyle – specifically a poor diet and a lack of physical activity – although genetics can increase one’s susceptibility. 

“Many people with Type 2 diabetes have a family history of the disease, but lifestyle factors remain a key influence in its development,” he adds. 

If you’re overweight or obese, you are also at a high risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. 

“Excess body fat, particularly around the abdomen, increases insulin resistance,” says Dr Wong. 

“This means that sugar cannot be efficiently absorbed by cells, thereby causing blood sugar levels to rise. Over time, this resistance can lead to Type 2 diabetes, which is why weight management is essential for prevention.”

2. Differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes

Dr Wong explains the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes: 

“Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition that usually starts in childhood, where the body produces little or no insulin. 

“Type 2 diabetes, which is much more common in Singapore, occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or produces insufficient amounts of insulin. Type 2 diabetes is strongly linked to lifestyle factors and accounts for the vast majority of diabetes cases in the country.”

3. Diabetes is not just about having high blood sugar

Instead, it’s part of a broader metabolic dysfunction, says Dr Wong. This can signal or accompany other conditions, such as obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, fatty liver disease, and cardiovascular issues – all linked to an unhealthy lifestyle. 

“By improving your diet, increasing physical activity, and going for regular screenings, you can maintain your metabolic health and prevent a range of chronic conditions,” he points out.

4. Certain health complications are associated with Type 2 diabetes

If not well managed, Dr Wong warns that Type 2 diabetes can lead to serious complications. These include: 

• Cardiovascular disease: This increases your risk of heart attack and stroke
• Neuropathy: Nerve damage that can cause pain or loss of sensation, often in the feet
• Kidney disease: This can progress to kidney failure
• Eye damage: Retinopathy may lead to vision loss
• Foot issues: Poor blood circulation can cause ulcers and may require amputation of your foot or feet

5. You can prevent and manage the disease

Adopting healthy lifestyle habits is key. Dr Wong recommends: 

• Eating a healthy diet comprising whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats
• Getting regular physical activity – approximately 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week
• Managing your weight, as being at a healthy weight reduces insulin resistance
• Undergoing regular screenings: Fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, and fasting insulin tests are able to catch early signs of diabetes
• If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes, taking medication like metformin or insulin can help you manage your blood sugar levels. 

6. Get tested and screened to assess your diabetes risk

Dr Wong explains what’s involved: 

Blood sugar and insulin tests:

• Fasting blood glucose test: Taken after an eight-hour fast, this test measures baseline blood sugar levels. A fasting level of 100 to 125 mg/dL suggests prediabetes, and a level of 126 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes. 
• Fasting insulin test: This test measures insulin levels after fasting and can provide insights into insulin resistance. Elevated fasting insulin can be an early sign of insulin resistance, which often precedes Type 2 diabetes.
• HbA1c test: This blood test provides an average of your blood sugar levels over the past two to three months. A level of 5.7 to 6.4 per cent suggests prediabetes, while 6.5 per cent or higher indicates diabetes.
• Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT): This test measures your blood sugar before and two hours after consuming a glucose solution. Levels above 200 mg/dL after two hours confirm diabetes.

Additional health checks:

• Blood pressure and cholesterol monitoring: Since high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol can worsen your diabetes risk, regular checks are essential. 
• Self-monitoring at home (for those diagnosed): Using a glucose metre helps you track daily blood sugar levels and guides lifestyle or medication adjustments.

Annual screenings for complications:

• Eye exams: Diabetes can lead to eye issues like diabetic retinopathy, so annual eye screenings are vital.
• Kidney function test: This simple urine test checks for early signs of kidney damage.
• Foot health checks: Regular foot exams can help detect ulcers and infections, especially in those diagnosed with diabetes.

“If you are at risk of developing diabetes or have a family history of the disease, take action today,” Dr Wong urges. 

“Schedule a screening that includes fasting insulin and glucose tests to better understand your risk and take control of your health. Early intervention can prevent or manage diabetes effectively, and this simple step can significantly impact your long-term wellness.”

Note: Please consult your healthcare professional if you have concerns about diabetes.

SAFRA members enjoy member rates on health screenings at Raffles Medical clinics. For more details, click here. 

For the full list of healthcare benefits, go to safra.sg/promotions/healthcare-products-and-services.  

The post 6 Things To Know About Diabetes On World Diabetes Day appeared first on eNSMAN.

Losing your hair at an especially young age can impact your self-esteem and self-confidence. It may leave you feeling ashamed or embarrassed and even cause anxiety and depression as you think about how it will affect your appearance and lifestyle. If you’ve always enjoyed a full head of hair, seeing plenty of stray hairs in your hairbrush, in your shower drain, or on your pillow upon waking up, or noticing the progressive thinning of your crown, can feel devastating.  

Instead of letting it get you down, take charge of your hair loss and hair thinning issues by learning what causes it and how to deal with it. 

First up: Losing a certain number of hairs every day is normal

It’s perfectly normal to shed as many as 50 to 150 strands of hair a day. The average person has between 100,000 and 150,000 hair follicles on their head, 90 per cent of which are producing hair at any given time. Each strand of hair grows for two to six years before resting for approximately three months. After this resting phase, the hair sheds and is replaced by new strands that grow from the same follicles. 

Hair loss, or alopecia, is not usually a big cause for concern, but it can be worrying when you start losing large amounts of hair (and particularly if you’re still in your 20s or 30s) or when new hair doesn’t grow back. Excessive hair loss is also known as balding. If you notice a loss of more than 100 hairs a day, then you may be experiencing balding. 

Male pattern hair loss is mainly driven by genetics

According to Dr Christopher Foo, Specialist in Dermatology and Consultant, Raffles Skin & Aesthetics, androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male pattern hair loss, is the most common cause of baldness in men. 

“This condition is due to genetics and is characterised by a distinct pattern, involving a receding hairline and hair loss at the crown,” he explains. 

“Most men experience the onset for this condition between the ages of 30 and 40, however, it may occur sooner for other men.”

Hair loss may be due to other factors besides genetics

Dr Foo says that there are non-genetic causes that may result in a condition known as telogen effluvium – where an increased shedding of hair occurs over a period of time. 

Some common causes include medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders or autoimmune diseases (like alopecia areata, where your immune cells attack and damage your hair follicles, resulting in a patchy loss of hair); scalp infections, such as a fungal infection or scalp inflammatory disorders; stress; obsessive pulling of hair (known as trichotillomania); the use of heat styling tools and chemical treatments; and a deficiency of nutrients like iron, protein, biotin, omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and certain vitamins. 

Adopt healthier lifestyle habits to minimise hair loss

While there may not be much you can do to prevent hair loss caused by genetics, you can certainly keep your scalp and hair healthy by adopting better lifestyle habits. 

These include exercising regularly to improve blood circulation to your scalp, and eating a balanced diet containing adequate protein and all the essential vitamins and minerals to ensure the health of your hair. 

Additionally, it’s important to be gentle when it comes to haircare practices and hair treatments. Avoid the excessive use of heat styling tools and harsh chemical treatments; wash, condition and style your hair using gentle products; and shampoo your hair often to keep your scalp healthy. 

You should also work on managing stress and aim to get sufficient quality sleep every night. 

If you spend a lot of time outdoors in the sun, wear a cap to prevent burning your scalp, which can potentially damage your hair follicles. 

Aside from taking care of your hair, put your best face forward with these skincare tips.

Not all hair loss treatments produce good results

Don’t be tempted to try every product claiming to prevent hair loss and give you back your crowning glory. Unfortunately, Dr Foo says that most of them are ineffective. 

“However, products containing minoxidil may be effective, as it is a proven medication to help retard hair loss due to androgenetic alopecia,” he notes. 

“It may even promote the thickening of hair in some individuals.”

How to tell if you should see a doctor

If your hair loss is so excessive that it’s starting to concern or scare you, if you’ve recently started taking certain medications and notice that you’re losing more hair than usual, or if your scalp is inflamed, irritated, itchy or scaling and hair loss in those areas appears to be patchy, then it might be a good idea to consult a doctor. 

You may also wish to seek medical help if your hair loss has started affecting you emotionally – for instance, it’s causing you immense stress and you feel anxious or depressed about it.  

Yes, it may be distressing having to confront hair loss while you’re in your 30s or 40s, but remind yourself that there are ways to deal with it. Besides seeking support or treatment from a medical professional or a trichologist (someone who specialises in treating hair and scalp problems), share your feelings with your loved ones to ease your emotional stress. More importantly, focus on what you can control, such as your overall health and other aspects of your physical appearance.

SAFRA members enjoy member rates on health screenings at Raffles Medical clinics. For more details, click here. 

For the full list of healthcare benefits, go to safra.sg/promotions/healthcare-products-and-services.  

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