Towards Precision Geromedicine in Singapore
Jonas John Posko Amalaraj, Louis Island, Jane Yu Ying Ong, Laureen Wang, Jose Hans M Valderas, Michael Dunn, Yap Seng Chong, Johannes Meij, Andrea B. Maier
Abstract
Since the discovery that ageing is a modifiable process in animal models, significant advancements in geroscience have led to the emergence of the field of Precision Geromedicine, which aims to optimise health and healthspan by targeting ageing-related processes. Ageing-related diseases (ARDs), accounting for 80% of Singapore's disease burden in 2019, are on the rise as the nation approaches the "super-aged" status by 2030. In response, Singapore is reshaping its healthcare system to focus on healthy ageing, as seen in the launch of the Healthier SG initiative in 2023, which empowers citizens to manage their health proactively with support from over 1800 private general practices. Additionally, Singapore is investing in geroscience to build the foundations of Precision Geromedicine, aiming to integrate gerodiagnostics and gerotherapeutics into clinical practice. Leveraging its robust healthcare system, digital infrastructure, and socio-political stability, Singapore is well-positioned to become a model for addressing ARDs amidst global demographic shifts.