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Only 6 in 10 Singapore residents are optimistic about staying healthy till old age

Lack of confidence stems from increase in prevalence of chronic diseases; incentives and proactive approach are crucial in building a healthier Singapore

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach – 23 May 2023 – Singaporeans are living longer lives, and yet, only 6 in 10 (59 per cent) are confident they will be healthy enough to live well to age 80 or beyond, according to a report commissioned by Prudential Singapore (“Prudential”) and written by Economist Impact.

The Singapore report titled “Battling chronic disease in Singapore: Reducing risk and building awareness” is based on an analysis of 300 Singapore residents. It explores how Singapore residents’ aspirations and their concepts of success may be changing amid longer life spans and ever-evolving challenges to health and wellbeing. Singapore also ranked the third lowest in confidence to live well according to a regional edition of the report, which surveyed 5,000 people across 13 Asian markets.[1]

The lack of confidence in living well till old age stems from the high levels of chronic health conditions in the Singapore population, where 32 per cent have been diagnosed with hypertension (high blood pressure) and 37 per cent with hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol).[2] Diabetes is also one of the most common chronic diseases that is of concern.

However, there is a silver lining as the survey found that Singapore residents are re-evaluating their priorities and placing more importance on physical fitness. When asked to rank what’s most important to them today compared to 5 years ago, respondents ranked physical fitness as third most important today compared to eighth place five years ago.

Mr Dennis Tan, CEO of Prudential Singapore, said that it is vital to take a preventive and proactive approach to health and wellness.

“We are responsible for our own health and wellness especially as we live longer years. Singapore has an aging population, and the incidence rate of chronic diseases will also increase with age. If we start leading a healthy lifestyle as early as possible, we can lay a strong foundation to enjoy our life to the fullest and into our golden years. Staying healthy also means that we will reduce the need for medical treatment in the long run.”

Incentives useful in promoting healthy behaviours

While Singapore residents placed greater emphasis on physical health, incentives are also useful in promoting healthy lifestyles and bringing down chronic disease levels. Respondents indicated that government incentives (51 per cent) and incentives offered by insurance providers (40 per cent) are key factors in motivating them to change their behaviour.

Among the 13 countries surveyed, Singapore residents appear to be the most receptive to incentives by the government, employers and others, to take a more proactive approach to improving their health. More than 6 in 10 (65 per cent) of respondents from Singapore agree that government policies and support are helpful in enabling them to improve their physical health, higher than the regional average (55 per cent).

The report also showed that Singapore residents are leveraging technology to help track their health. Over 75 per cent of respondents – higher than the 72 per cent regional average – reported using mobile apps to monitor and/or improve their physical health and fitness. Experts interviewed for the report shared that national programmes such as the National Steps Challenge have a part to play in encouraging this behaviour. As part of the Challenge, citizens use a wearable fitness tracker and mobile health app to record their physical activity levels and earn rewards for increasing their physical activity.[3]

Taking a proactive approach to health screenings and health management

Early screenings, detection and treatment can result in better outcomes for chronic diseases. However, according to Dr Clive Tan, assistant professor, Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, many people are reluctant to get screened due to a fear of receiving bad news, and that “too often people think the onset of a disease is a death sentence.” [4] Dr Tan was one of the experts interviewed for the report.

He also shared that most health screenings today are transactional. The purpose of screening is not only to inform people about the disease risks that they face, but to also help them make the behavioural changes needed to address their risk factors.

Dr Low Lip Ping, chairman emeritus of the Singapore Heart Foundation, noted as part of his contribution to the report that “Primary care physicians will need to become more proactive in their communities in explaining the implications of, for example, hypertension and high cholesterol, and precisely what patients need to do to manage those risks.”[5]

Supporting a healthier Singapore

Prudential offers a variety of initiatives to help customers and the community take better care of their health for long-term wellness. For example, the Chronic Care Management Programme (CCMP) was launched in 2022 to support Prudential’s PRUPanel Connect[6] customers with early detection and follow up care for chronic conditions.[7] Singapore residents can also tap on the Pulse by Prudential (Pulse) app to check their symptoms, conduct assessments and speak with a doctor to understand their health better.

Through the company’s title sponsorship of the Tour de France Prudential Singapore Criterium, it aims to inspire more Singapore residents to keep active and healthy through cycling, an accessible and sustainable sport that young and old can enjoy.

About the report

“Battling chronic disease in Singapore: Reducing risk and building awareness” is a report commissioned by Prudential and written by Economist Impact, which explores how Singapore residents’ aspirations and their concepts of success may be changing amid longer life spans and ever-evolving challenges to health and wellbeing. The analysis is based on a survey of 300 residents in Singapore, conducted in September and October 2022. A panel of subject-matter experts was also interviewed for this study. For more information on the Singapore report, please refer to the report here.

The Singapore findings are part of a region-wide report “Re-thinking well-being in Asia: How outlooks on life are changing” which surveyed 5,000 people across 13 Asian markets. For more information on the region-wide report, please refer to this press release here.


[1] A regional report “Re-thinking well-being in Asia: How outlooks on life are changing” which surveyed 5,000 people across 13 Asian markets is also available. For more information, please refer to https://www.prudentialplc.com/~/media/Files/P/Prudential-V13/content-pdf/fulfilling-futures-report-asia.pdf

[2] Source: “White Paper on Healthier SG.” 2022. https://file.go.gov.sg/healthiersg-whitepaper-pdf.pdf

[3] More information can be found in the regional report “Re-thinking well-being in Asia: How outlooks on life are changing”. Please refer to https://www.prudentialplc.com/~/media/Files/P/Prudential-V13/content-pdf/fulfilling-futures-report-asia.pdf

[4] This quote can be found in the “Battling chronic disease in Singapore: Reducing risk and building awareness” report. For more information, please refer to https://www.prudentialplc.com/~/media/Files/P/Prudential-V13/content-pdf/fulfilling-futures-report-singapore.pdf

[5] This quote can be found in the “Battling chronic disease in Singapore: Reducing risk and building awareness” report. For more information, please refer to https://www.prudentialplc.com/~/media/Files/P/Prudential-V13/content-pdf/fulfilling-futures-report-singapore.pdf

[6] PRUPanel Connect is Prudential’s healthcare partnership programme. For more information, please visit https://www.prudential.com.sg/prupanel-connect

[7] For more information on the Prudential Singapore Chronic Care Management Programme and eligibility criteria, please visit https://www.prudential.com.sg/ppc-ccmp

Hashtag: #PrudentialSingapore

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Prudential Assurance Company Singapore (Pte) Ltd (Prudential Singapore)

Prudential Assurance Company Singapore (Pte) Ltd is one of the top life insurance companies in Singapore, serving the financial and protection needs of the country’s citizens for 92 years. The company has an AA- Financial Strength Rating from leading credit rating agency Standard & Poor’s, with S$49.4 billion funds under management as at 31 December 2022. It delivers a suite of well-rounded product offerings in Protection, Savings and Investment through multiple distribution channels including a network of more than 5,000 financial consultants.

BOL, Ministry of Finance Sign MOU to Enhance Cooperation

BOL, Ministry of Finance Sign MOU to Enhance Cooperation Mechanisms
Mr. Santiphap Phomvihane (left) and Mr. Bounleua Sinxayvoravong (right) at the bilateral meeting (Photo: Pasaxon)

The Bank of the Lao PDR (BOL) and the Ministry of Finance signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on Monday to improve cooperation between the two organizations.

Concern Rising in Myanmar That Supplies Needed for Recovery From Cyclone Mocha Are Coming Too Slowly

Concern Rising in Myanmar That Supplies Needed for Recovery From Cyclone Mocha Are Coming Too Slowly
An ethnic Rakhine man stands inside a damaged pagoda to help for repairing roof after Cyclone Mocha in Sittwe township, Rakhine State, Myanmar. ( Photo : AP )

BANGKOK (AP) — As residents of Myanmar’s Rakhine and Chin states worked Monday to repair the devastation from last week’s Cyclone Mocha, concern is rising about whether the urgent needs for shelter, food, drinking water and medical assistance can be met before the onset of seasonal monsoon rains.

Scientists say Human-Caused Warming Responsible for Current Heatwave in Asia

Heatwave All But Impossible without Human-Caused Climate Change
Cricket fans cover their heads with a long scarf to shield themselves from heat during an Indian Premier League (IPL) cricket match in Lucknow, India. (Photo: AP )

World Weather Attribution (WWA) has reported that the heatwave in Laos and Thailand would not have happened, if not for humans contributing to the rise of global temperatures.

CÉ LA VI Singapore Honours Pride Month with GLAM BASH and SLASSY

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach – 23 May 2023 – CÉ LA VI Singapore is poised to enliven the city’s nightlife this Pride Month. With the inaugural GLAM BASH and the return of their much-loved SLASSY, the venue presents a dynamic duo of events that champion and embrace the diversity of the LGBTQ+ community.

Embracing the Diversity of Pride

“CÉ LA VI is a steadfast advocate for diversity and inclusion,” shares Clement Toh . “Our events, GLAM BASH and SLASSY, are designed to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community in all its vibrant diversity, and underscore our commitment to creating an inclusive atmosphere for all.”

* GLAM BASH: On 10th June, CÉ LA VI Singapore kicks off Pride Month with GLAM BASH. Running from 10:00 PM to 04:00 AM, this event invites guests to a celebration of diversity and creativity under the city’s stars. The night will feature an exciting performance by the Dancing Mirror Man and a creative contest challenging guests to express their unique styles. The most dazzling and remarkable styles will be awarded prizes, celebrating individuality in an atmosphere of inclusivity and camaraderie.

* SLASSY: Returning on 24th June, CÉ LA VI Singapore revives the iconic SLASSY from 10:00 PM to 04:00 AM. This year’s ‘Soar High’ theme promotes the freedom to be oneself, challenging norms and encouraging authentic self-expression. Showcasing a diverse line-up of international and local drag queens, attendees can expect unforgettable performances that break boundaries and celebrate the vibrant LGBTQ+ community. Accompanied by the musical talents of DJs Shigeki, Amber and Emma, and Leonard T, SLASSY is set to be not just some party, but a journey of liberation and unity.

Event Highlights

Guests at both GLAM BASH and SLASSY can expect a blend of world-class performances, vibrant music, and an inclusive atmosphere that encapsulates the spirit of Pride Month. CÉ LA VI encourages attendees to dress up, express themselves, and enjoy an evening of exquisite entertainment and camaraderie.

Both events signify the importance of Pride Month, providing platforms that promote diversity and inclusion while adding to the larger conversation surrounding LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance.

For more detailed information about CÉ LA VI Singapore and their Pride Month celebrations, please visit https://www.celavi.com/en/singapore/whatson/.

Hashtag: #CeLaVi

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About CÉ LA VI Singapore

CÉ LA VI is our interpretation of the popular French saying, “This is Life”. Our mission is simple: the pursuit of pleasure, passion, and play in a spectacular setting. Born in Southeast Asia, CÉ LA VI pays homage to the region’s creative legacy and cultural landmarks, welcoming guests to an . Our global footprint and red umbrellas span across Singapore, Taipei, Tokyo, and Dubai.

Vietnamese Durian Sellers Arrested in Thailand for Tampering With Scales

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This image is used only for representational purpose (photo: Matichon)

A group of Vietnamese durian vendors were detained in Nonthaburi, Thailand on Sunday for tampering with scales and could each face up to seven years in prison.

Health Ministry Keen to Amend Tax Agreement with Lao Tobacco Company

A man smoking a cigarette. (Photo: World Bank).

On Friday, the Ministry of Health discussed the current tax agreement between the government of Laos and Lao Tobacco Company (LTC) which it considers unfair.

Newman Capital Invests in Web3 Gaming Wallet Infrastructure Startup Openfort

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach – 23 May 2023 – Newman Capital is proud to announce its investment in Openfort, a cutting-edge blockchain wallet infrastructure startup focused on Web3 gaming. With the investment from Newman, Openfort has completed its $3 million seed round fundraising, which was co-led by gumi Cryptos Capital and Maven 11. Game7 and NGC Ventures also participated in this round.

Newman X Openfont.jpg

Driving Web3 adoption among consumers has been one of the key missions of Newman Capital. Having high-efficiency Web3 infrastructures, middleware, and tooling is the prerequisite for developing high-quality, user-friendly Web3 applications that provide a frictionless experience for not only Web3 native but for all.

Openfort’s programmable wallet-as-a-service is set to be a game-changer in the realm of Web3 gaming. With its innovative use of account abstraction technology, it has the potential to make Web3 gaming accessible to everyone, ushering in a new era of immersive gaming experiences.

Adrian Lai, Founder and Managing Partner at Newman Capital, added, “Web3 gaming poses a unique set of technological challenges, which often create drawbacks on user journey and experience. To truly bring web3 gaming to the masses, advanced toolings are much needed to overcome those challenges so that game developers can create web3 games that will provide a seamless and user-friendly experience with improved security. We are glad to support the Openfort team in delivering their account abstraction-enabled gaming wallet.”

For more information about account abstraction and how it will change Web3 gaming, please visit Newman Research.

Hashtag: #NewmanCapital #Web3 #VentureCapital #Investment #Blockchain

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Newman Capital

Newman Capital is a proprietary venture capital firm headquartered in Hong Kong with a footprint throughout Asia and the US. Our vast knowledge and network allow us to interconnect with diverse communities. East and West, Web2 and Web3, developed and emerging markets, and more. We seek extraordinary founders and technology at the forefront of Web3 and connect them with top-tier resources, unlocking new opportunities and access, enabling them to scale with true impact. We focus on investing in early-stage consumer-facing applications and related infrastructure within the entertainment, social, and gaming sectors.

Learn more about Newman Capital at

About Openfort

Openfort is a wallet-as-a-service solution that allows game developers to easily integrate blockchain accounts into their games. The platform leverages account abstraction to offer seamless transactions, batch transactions, and multi-chain transactions, as well as player management and authentication. The platform eliminates gas fees, wallet popups, and prompts during gameplay, and supports ERC20 tokens. Openfort is the best solution for games and gamified experiences that doesn’t compromise on user experience.

Learn more about Openfort at