​Clinical Associate Prof Frederick Koh, Consultant, Colorectal Service, SKH, shared about Sarcopenia - the progressive state of loss of muscle mass and function leading to a higher risk of falls, fractures and hospitalisations. He emphasises that sedentary lifestyle, rather than age itself, is the primary contributor to Sarcopenia. Prevention or reversal is possible, particularly in early stages, through a healthy lifestyle which includes adequate nutrition focusing on a high protein diet, resistance-based exercise, managing chronic diseases such as diabetes, and sufficient exposure to sunlight or vitamin D supplementation.

He also shared that since 2018, SKH has implemented the SUPREME programme (SUrgical PREhabilitation for coMprehensive Enhanced recovery) to enhance patients’ physiological resilience and capability to undergo major surgeries more effectively. Through this programme, surgical complication rates for major surgeries have been reduced to 1.6% at SKH. He encourages the public to take simple daily measures to enhance muscle health by leading a healthy lifestyle.