On 9 November 2024, the Punggol Room at HDB Hub in Toa Payoh buzzed with excitement as women from all walks of life gathered for our highly anticipated Women’s Health Seminar. This event brought together leading specialists to share invaluable insights into key areas of women’s health. With three engaging sessions covering pre-pregnancy tips, gynaecological breakthroughs, and breast cancer prevention, attendees are left empowered with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their health.
1. Pre-Pregnancy Health Tips by Dr James Lee
The seminar kicked off with Dr James Lee from Astra Women’s Specialists, who spoke about the importance of pre-pregnancy health. Dr Lee highlighted that pregnancy is a journey filled with both challenges and rewards. His talk emphasised:
- The power of preparation: Pre-conception health screening and adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce risks and improve pregnancy outcomes.
- Setting realistic expectations: Understanding the birthing process helps to manage challenges and ensures a positive experience.
- Medical progress: Maternal and infant mortality rates have dropped due to advances in healthcare, though there’s still room for improvement.
Dr Lee’s session left attendees with practical takeaways and a renewed sense of purpose as they plan for motherhood.
2. Gynaecological Breakthroughs by Dr Kanika Chaudhuri
Next, Dr Kanika Chaudhuri, also from Astra Women’s Specialists, explored how medical advancements in gynaecology have transformed women’s quality of life. She delved into:
- Cervical cancer prevention: The introduction of Pap smears and HPV vaccinations has dramatically reduced cases.
- Imaging advancements: Ultrasounds, MRIs, and CT scans now allow for precise diagnosis and personalised treatments.
- Minimally invasive procedures: Techniques like hysteroscopy and laparoscopy have revolutionised surgical care.
- Fertility advancements: Innovations in IUI and IVF have given hope to countless couples struggling with subfertility.
Dr Kanika’s talk celebrated these breakthroughs and their profound impact on women’s health.
3. Breast Cancer Awareness by Dr Anthony Tang
After a short break, Dr Anthony Tang from The Breast Clinic took the stage to address breast cancer, one of the most pressing concerns for women in Singapore. His session, titled Breast Cancer Today: Prevention, Detection & Care, underscored:
- The importance of early detection: Regular mammograms and self-examinations are crucial for spotting breast cancer in its early stages.
- Treatment advancements: New surgical techniques now offer less invasive options, improving recovery and quality of life.
- Empowerment through awareness: Understanding breast cancer and seeking expert help early can save lives.
Dr Tang also shared sobering statistics about breast cancer in Singapore, highlighting its prevalence but also the improving survival rates with timely intervention.
A Memorable Seminar with Lasting Impact
“Navigating the A to Z’s of Women’s Health” was a resounding success, drawing attention to critical health topics and sparking meaningful conversations. Attendees left with a deeper understanding of their health and actionable steps to enhance their well-being.
Stay tuned for more events like this that empower women to take charge of their health journeys!
