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As a family physician in Singapore, I see many children and have become familiar with some of the most common health concerns over the years. Below are just a few – rest assured, we’re here to help with all of them!
WORMS
Intestinal worms are a common issue worldwide, frequently affecting children in Singapore. The most common is threadworms – tiny white threads about one centimetre long. If your child complains of an itchy bottom, this may be the cause. To treat the worms, we use anthelmintic (anti-worm) medication, available in tablet and liquid forms, which is generally safe and easy to administer.
SKIN PROTECTION
Temperatures and the UV Index in Singapore are rising. Melanoma, a type of skin cancer, is linked to intense sun exposure, particularly in childhood. The UV Index measures UV radiation, ranging from 0 to 11+, with Singapore’s average around 6 to 9, occasionally reaching 15. To protect your child, use UV-protective clothing, apply high-SPF sunscreen, and avoid the sun during midday when UV levels peak.
WATER WARTS
Molluscum contagiosum, or water warts, is a mild viral infection that causes raised spots on the skin. It typically affects children aged one to five. While usually harmless, it can take up to 18 months to resolve. The warts often appear on the face, chest, tummy, back, armpits, behind the knees, or nappy area, but can occur anywhere. Though they usually disappear on their own, treatments like cryotherapy (freezing) are available.
DENGUE
Many children with dengue fever have mild symptoms, which appear 4 -14 days after a mosquito bite. Younger children and those infected for the first time tend to have milder symptoms. However, older children, adults, and those with previous infections may experience more severe symptoms, including the life-threatening Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever (DHF).
Symptoms include:
- Low to high-grade fever (up to 40ºC)
- Body aches, muscle and bone pain
- Severe headache
- Rash
- Mild bleeding (from the nose or gums)
- Abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting
- Easy bruising
- Change in behaviour or irritability
HPV VACCINE
HPV infection of the cervix causes nearly all cervical cancer cases, which primarily affect younger women. While boys can’t develop cervical cancer, they can get other HPV-related cancers and genital warts. The HPV vaccine is recommended for both girls and boys aged 10 – 14. While many parents still view the HPV vaccine as new, it has been in use for over 15 years, with the most common, Gardasil 9, protecting against nine HPV strains. Osler Health can assist with the vaccination.
MENTAL HEALTH
While it is normal for teens to be moody or unmotivated at times, it’s essential to recognise the signs of potential mental health issues. If you notice the following signs lasting more than a few weeks, consider seeking external support:
- Social withdrawal
- Changes in appetite
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Changes in behaviour
- The inability to enjoy activities
- Low mood
- Physical signs of self-harm/injury
At Osler, we provide a safe space for supporting teen mental health. Together we’ll help you to navigate these challenges.
Dr. Valerie Druon is a French-speaking family physician based at Osler Health International (Star Vista clinic). Known for her kind and friendly attitude to everyone, Dr. Valerie is the trusted doctor to many families in Singapore.
6339 2727
osler-health.com
