Have you thought about it i.e. whether you want to retire with enough money or retire with insufficient money.
Well, the difference is here - Enjoying your retirement and Retiring from enjoyment.
Invest in life insurance? It may not provide you with the best rate of return, but, it gurantees predetermined dollars on your retirement with almost no risk.
That is to say, you can arrange for an amount that is adequate for an enjoyable retirement through life insurance.
It is the best way to guarantee sufficient money for your retirement.
Monday, July 30, 2007
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
What Is Osteoporosis
That I know of Osteoporosis is a disease in which bones become weak and brittle. If not prevented or if left untreated, osteoporosis can progress painlessly until a fracture occurs.
Fractures from osteoporosis are commonly seen in the hip, spine and wrist. These fractures usually occur in females over the age of 65.
Hip fracture usually requires surgery. After surgery, some people may not regain the ability to walk again despite rehabilitation. Prolonged period of being bed-bound can also lead to complications such as chest infection which can cause death.
An elderly with fracture of the spine can suffer tremendous amount of pain with subsequent loss of height and back deformity.
Who Are At Risk
* female
* over 65 years of age
* a family history of osteoporosis
* think and small built [Body Mass Index of 26 or below carries an
increased risk]
* menopause either naturally or artifically from removal of ovaries in a surgery
* poor intake of calcium
* sedentary lifestyle
* smoker
* alcohol drinker
* fair-skinned race [such as Chinese and Caucasians]
How To Prevent?
Having a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D
Incorporating exercises [weight-bearing and resistance types of exercises] into one's lifestyle from a very young age
Cease smoking and reduce the intake of alcohol
Consult your doctor for a referral for a Bone Mineral Density [BMD] test
Fractures from osteoporosis are commonly seen in the hip, spine and wrist. These fractures usually occur in females over the age of 65.
Hip fracture usually requires surgery. After surgery, some people may not regain the ability to walk again despite rehabilitation. Prolonged period of being bed-bound can also lead to complications such as chest infection which can cause death.
An elderly with fracture of the spine can suffer tremendous amount of pain with subsequent loss of height and back deformity.
Who Are At Risk
* female
* over 65 years of age
* a family history of osteoporosis
* think and small built [Body Mass Index of 26 or below carries an
increased risk]
* menopause either naturally or artifically from removal of ovaries in a surgery
* poor intake of calcium
* sedentary lifestyle
* smoker
* alcohol drinker
* fair-skinned race [such as Chinese and Caucasians]
How To Prevent?
Having a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D
Incorporating exercises [weight-bearing and resistance types of exercises] into one's lifestyle from a very young age
Cease smoking and reduce the intake of alcohol
Consult your doctor for a referral for a Bone Mineral Density [BMD] test
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Why some people say they don't have money when they have?
I think the issue here is not really having the money or not but rather the priority of using them. It is because of competition from other more tangible products or investments that makes many people feel this way.
It is a disturbing fact that many people do not place life insurance high on their priority list although they need the coverage badly.
Life insurance deals with the future needs of a person and thus its benefits are difficult to experience and appreciate at the time of buying as compared to most other products.
It is only when life insurance is recognised as a priority item for the family that people will find the money for it.
Wise people plan ahead of their needs.
As the saying goes "Don't start digging for a well only when you become thirsty...for it may be too late!
Again there are some people who say that life insurance is for the rich. Really, I beg to disagree because I feel those who think they are not rich need life insurance most. It is better to have some life insurance cover than nothing.
NTUC INCOME has a whole range of life insurance products to meet individual's need. Do let me know if I can be of help to you.
It is a disturbing fact that many people do not place life insurance high on their priority list although they need the coverage badly.
Life insurance deals with the future needs of a person and thus its benefits are difficult to experience and appreciate at the time of buying as compared to most other products.
It is only when life insurance is recognised as a priority item for the family that people will find the money for it.
Wise people plan ahead of their needs.
As the saying goes "Don't start digging for a well only when you become thirsty...for it may be too late!
Again there are some people who say that life insurance is for the rich. Really, I beg to disagree because I feel those who think they are not rich need life insurance most. It is better to have some life insurance cover than nothing.
NTUC INCOME has a whole range of life insurance products to meet individual's need. Do let me know if I can be of help to you.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
What Exactly Is "Sweet Urine" ?
The Chinese and Malay refer to Diabetes as "Sweet Urine". In the past, this is the only way to find out if a person is a diabetic.
Today, diabetes is detected through blood test.
Some people who are not diabetic can have sugar in their urine and detection of sugar in the urine is no longer considered an accurate way of diagnosing diabetes.
Our blood sugar is controlled by a hormone produced by an organ in our abdomen called pancreas. This hormone is called insulin.
Insufficient insulin causes the blood sugar to rise, giving rise to the condition called Diabetes.
Diabetes can be divided into 3 types:
Type 1 Diabetes [Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus or IDDM]
- this usually occurs in children or young adults.
Type 2 [ [Non-insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus or IDDM]
- this is the more common form of diabetes. It occurs mainly in adults and is frequently associated with obesity and hypertension.
Gestational Diabetes
- this diabetes occurring during a woman's pregnancy.
The most common symptoms of diabetes are:
- feeling tired and "run down'
- feeling thirsty
- passing large amounts of urine
- itching on the genital [private] areas due to fungal infection.
However, not everyone has these symptoms and many people discover they have diabetes during routine checks.
Type 2 Diabetes may be controlled with lifestyle modification such as diet, exercise, achieving ideal body weight and cessation of smoking. If this fails, oral medication is needed to normalise blood sugar level. Injections of insulin may be required in severe form of diabetes.
Diabetes affects every part of the body. Complications of diabetes include
*Eyes [blindness, cataracts],
*Kidneys [kidney failure],
*Heart [heart attacks, heart failure]
*Nervous system [loss of sensation in the legs and arms
*Increase risk of strokes
*Abnormal heart rhythms
*Abnormal functioning of the gut, e.g. poor digestion, diarrhoea or constipation
*Limb [amputations]
*Impotence
*Infection [increased risk of infection, poor healing of wounds]
Good control of diabetes can prevent or delay the development of such complications. So it is important to persevere with lifestyle modification and to comply with treatment.
Today, diabetes is detected through blood test.
Some people who are not diabetic can have sugar in their urine and detection of sugar in the urine is no longer considered an accurate way of diagnosing diabetes.
Our blood sugar is controlled by a hormone produced by an organ in our abdomen called pancreas. This hormone is called insulin.
Insufficient insulin causes the blood sugar to rise, giving rise to the condition called Diabetes.
Diabetes can be divided into 3 types:
Type 1 Diabetes [Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus or IDDM]
- this usually occurs in children or young adults.
Type 2 [ [Non-insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus or IDDM]
- this is the more common form of diabetes. It occurs mainly in adults and is frequently associated with obesity and hypertension.
Gestational Diabetes
- this diabetes occurring during a woman's pregnancy.
The most common symptoms of diabetes are:
- feeling tired and "run down'
- feeling thirsty
- passing large amounts of urine
- itching on the genital [private] areas due to fungal infection.
However, not everyone has these symptoms and many people discover they have diabetes during routine checks.
Type 2 Diabetes may be controlled with lifestyle modification such as diet, exercise, achieving ideal body weight and cessation of smoking. If this fails, oral medication is needed to normalise blood sugar level. Injections of insulin may be required in severe form of diabetes.
Diabetes affects every part of the body. Complications of diabetes include
*Eyes [blindness, cataracts],
*Kidneys [kidney failure],
*Heart [heart attacks, heart failure]
*Nervous system [loss of sensation in the legs and arms
*Increase risk of strokes
*Abnormal heart rhythms
*Abnormal functioning of the gut, e.g. poor digestion, diarrhoea or constipation
*Limb [amputations]
*Impotence
*Infection [increased risk of infection, poor healing of wounds]
Good control of diabetes can prevent or delay the development of such complications. So it is important to persevere with lifestyle modification and to comply with treatment.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Increase In Minimum Sum & Medisave Contribution Ceciling
The following update that I picked up are reproduced for your quick reference.
CPF Minimum Sum
From 1 July 07, the CPF Minimum Sum (MS) will be increased from $94,600 to $99,600. The new amount will apply to CPF members who turn 55 between 1 July 07 and 30 June 08. CPF members who set aside the $99,600 fully in cash will receive a monthly payout of $790 from age 62 for about 20 years.
This increase is in line with the announcements made in August 03 that the CPF MS will be raised gradually to reach $120,000 (in 2003 dollars) in 2013. The increase in MS, which includes an adjustment for inflation, is to ensure that Singaporeans set aside sufficient savings for their retirement.
Medisave Minimum Sum and Medisave Contribution Ceiling
From 1 July 07, the Medisave Minimum Sum (MMS) will be increased from $28,000 to $28,500. Members will have to set aside this amount, or the actual Medisave balance, whichever is lower, in their Medisave Account, when they withdraw their CPF at or after 55 years old.
The Medisave Contribution Ceiling (MCC) will be also raised from $33,000 to $33,500. This is the maximum balance each member may have in his Medisave Account. As announced previously, any Medisave contribution in excess of the prevailing MCC will be transferred to the member’s Special Account if he is below age 55. If he is above age 55, the Medisave contribution in excess of the prevailing MCC will be transferred to his Retirement Account if he has a Minimum Sum shortfall.
The revisions to MMS and MCC are to ensure that Singaporeans have sufficient savings to meet their hospitalisation expenses, and have been adjusted for inflation.
CPF Minimum Sum
From 1 July 07, the CPF Minimum Sum (MS) will be increased from $94,600 to $99,600. The new amount will apply to CPF members who turn 55 between 1 July 07 and 30 June 08. CPF members who set aside the $99,600 fully in cash will receive a monthly payout of $790 from age 62 for about 20 years.
This increase is in line with the announcements made in August 03 that the CPF MS will be raised gradually to reach $120,000 (in 2003 dollars) in 2013. The increase in MS, which includes an adjustment for inflation, is to ensure that Singaporeans set aside sufficient savings for their retirement.
Medisave Minimum Sum and Medisave Contribution Ceiling
From 1 July 07, the Medisave Minimum Sum (MMS) will be increased from $28,000 to $28,500. Members will have to set aside this amount, or the actual Medisave balance, whichever is lower, in their Medisave Account, when they withdraw their CPF at or after 55 years old.
The Medisave Contribution Ceiling (MCC) will be also raised from $33,000 to $33,500. This is the maximum balance each member may have in his Medisave Account. As announced previously, any Medisave contribution in excess of the prevailing MCC will be transferred to the member’s Special Account if he is below age 55. If he is above age 55, the Medisave contribution in excess of the prevailing MCC will be transferred to his Retirement Account if he has a Minimum Sum shortfall.
The revisions to MMS and MCC are to ensure that Singaporeans have sufficient savings to meet their hospitalisation expenses, and have been adjusted for inflation.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Coronary Artery Disease Another Silent Killer Disease
About one-quarter of death in Singapore each year is due to Coronary Artery Disease [CAD]. Another name for it is Ischaemic Heart Disease [IHD].
It is the 2nd most common cause of death in Singapore.
The heart is mainly made up of muscle which pumps blood around the body, bring oxygen and nutrients to every part of our body.
This muscle of the heart themselves needs oxygen and nutrients to keep on working. The blood vessels that carry the blood to the heart muscle are called Coronary Arteries. Blockage of the coronary arteries is known as Coronary Artery Disease [CAD].
With decreased blood supply, the heart muscle is deprived of oxygen and in medical terminology, this is known as Ischaemia. Hence another name for this condition is called Ischaemic Heart Disease.
Risk factors are conditions that increase your risk for CAD. Some risk factors can be changed and others cannot.
In general, the more risk factors you have, the greater your chance of developing heart disease.
These are the Risk Factors you cannot control:-
* age [45 years or older for men; 55 years or older for women]
* family history of early heart disease [father or brother
affected before age 55; mother or sister affected before age 65]
Known Risk Factors That You Can Do Something About It :-
+ high blood cholesterol [raised total cholesterol and raised LDL 'bad' cholesterol]
+ low HDL [good] cholesterol]
+ smoking
+ high blood pressure
+ diabetes
+ obesity/overweight
+ sedentary life-style or physical inactivity
What Are The Complications and Risks
A heart attack is a very serious condition as up to one-third of patients may die.
As permanent damage of the heart muscle occurs after a heart attack, the heart pump is weakened and may result in heart failure.
A person who had a heart attack may also suffer abnormal heart rhythm and recurrent chest pain. He or she is also at an increased risk or a repeat heart attack, particularly over the next one year.
Conclusion
The good news about CAD is that heart attack can be prevented.
Learn about healthy lifestyle and apply it to your life, no matter what age you are now. Whatever it is, get yourself financially protected.
So don't get stressed up, stay healthy, watch your diet and make a point to have regular exercises.
It is the 2nd most common cause of death in Singapore.
The heart is mainly made up of muscle which pumps blood around the body, bring oxygen and nutrients to every part of our body.
This muscle of the heart themselves needs oxygen and nutrients to keep on working. The blood vessels that carry the blood to the heart muscle are called Coronary Arteries. Blockage of the coronary arteries is known as Coronary Artery Disease [CAD].
With decreased blood supply, the heart muscle is deprived of oxygen and in medical terminology, this is known as Ischaemia. Hence another name for this condition is called Ischaemic Heart Disease.
Risk factors are conditions that increase your risk for CAD. Some risk factors can be changed and others cannot.
In general, the more risk factors you have, the greater your chance of developing heart disease.
These are the Risk Factors you cannot control:-
* age [45 years or older for men; 55 years or older for women]
* family history of early heart disease [father or brother
affected before age 55; mother or sister affected before age 65]
Known Risk Factors That You Can Do Something About It :-
+ high blood cholesterol [raised total cholesterol and raised LDL 'bad' cholesterol]
+ low HDL [good] cholesterol]
+ smoking
+ high blood pressure
+ diabetes
+ obesity/overweight
+ sedentary life-style or physical inactivity
What Are The Complications and Risks
A heart attack is a very serious condition as up to one-third of patients may die.
As permanent damage of the heart muscle occurs after a heart attack, the heart pump is weakened and may result in heart failure.
A person who had a heart attack may also suffer abnormal heart rhythm and recurrent chest pain. He or she is also at an increased risk or a repeat heart attack, particularly over the next one year.
Conclusion
The good news about CAD is that heart attack can be prevented.
Learn about healthy lifestyle and apply it to your life, no matter what age you are now. Whatever it is, get yourself financially protected.
So don't get stressed up, stay healthy, watch your diet and make a point to have regular exercises.
Monday, July 9, 2007
What Is The Second Commonest Cancer ?
What I know of Colorectal Cancer is the second commonest cancer among males and females in Singapore. It can be effectively treated if detected early.
These are Signs and Symptoms?
Change in bowel habits such as persistent diarrhoea or constipation or a change in the frequency of stools.
Blood mixed with stools.
Persistent vague abdominal discomfort or pain.
A lump or mass is felt in the abdomen.
Unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite or fatigue.
What Are The Risk ?
Increasing age. Most people with colorectal cancer are more than 45 years of age.
A personal history or family history of colonic or rectal polyps or cancer.
A history of inflammatory bowel disease e.g. chronic ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease.
Dietary facts - Some studies have indicated a link between a high animal/saturated fat diet and low fiber intake with a definite increased risk of colon cancer. Dietary intake of high fiber and low saturated fats may prevent colorectal cancer.
Prevention Is Better Than Cure
Screening for polyps or small cancers beginning at age 50 is essential to prevention or crucial early detection of colorectal cancer.
If there is a family history of colon or rectal cancer, screening in consultation with a physician is recommended by age 40 or sooner.
Although there is no conclusive evidence, recent studies have shown that a diet low in saturated fats and high in fiber can contribute to the prevention of colorectal cancer.
These are Signs and Symptoms?
Change in bowel habits such as persistent diarrhoea or constipation or a change in the frequency of stools.
Blood mixed with stools.
Persistent vague abdominal discomfort or pain.
A lump or mass is felt in the abdomen.
Unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite or fatigue.
What Are The Risk ?
Increasing age. Most people with colorectal cancer are more than 45 years of age.
A personal history or family history of colonic or rectal polyps or cancer.
A history of inflammatory bowel disease e.g. chronic ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease.
Dietary facts - Some studies have indicated a link between a high animal/saturated fat diet and low fiber intake with a definite increased risk of colon cancer. Dietary intake of high fiber and low saturated fats may prevent colorectal cancer.
Prevention Is Better Than Cure
Screening for polyps or small cancers beginning at age 50 is essential to prevention or crucial early detection of colorectal cancer.
If there is a family history of colon or rectal cancer, screening in consultation with a physician is recommended by age 40 or sooner.
Although there is no conclusive evidence, recent studies have shown that a diet low in saturated fats and high in fiber can contribute to the prevention of colorectal cancer.
Saturday, July 7, 2007
Breast Cancer - Most Common Cancer Among Female In Singapore
According to statistics that I know of - one out of 4 or 5 female cancers is Breast Cancer. The number of females with breast cancer has doubled over the last 25 years and this number is still climbing.
These are the Risk Factors:
+ age : 77% are over the age of 50 but breast cancer can occur in
younger women
+ family history of breast cancer; especially among first-degree relatives
+ personal history of breast cancer
+ late pregnancies or never have children
+ inactive or sedentary lifestyle
+ smoking
+ alcohol consumption of more than one drink per day
+ high-fat diet
What are the Warning Signs
* lump or thickening [a mass, swelling, skin irritation, or distortion]
in or near breast or in the underarm area
* nipple discharge with blood, erosion, inversion, or tenderness
* change in the colour or feel of the skin of the breast, areola,
or nipple [dimpled, puckered or scaly]
* change in the size or shape of the breast
Prevention Measure
[a] Breast Self Examination [BSE]
It is very important for every woman above 20 years old to learn and practise BSE regularly once a month, about a week after each menstrual period.
Women who no longer have periods should practise BSE on a fixed date each month.
About 90% of breast lumps are detected by BSE. These lumps are usually not cancerous but early detection of cancerous lumps in the breast gives the best chance of a completely successful treatment.
Routine Mammogram
Women age 40 - 49 years of age are encouraged to go for regular mammography every year while those 50 years and above should go every two years.
Women who are at higher risk of developing breast cancer should see a doctor for advice.
The cost of healthcare has increased tremendously over the last 10 years. Your finances and savings can be wiped out by a major hospitalisation. It is essential to ensure adequate insurance cover to cushion the financial burden if you should become critically ill.
Please feel free to contact me if you need more information about the critical illness insurance covers offer by NTUC INCOME, under no obligation of course.
These are the Risk Factors:
+ age : 77% are over the age of 50 but breast cancer can occur in
younger women
+ family history of breast cancer; especially among first-degree relatives
+ personal history of breast cancer
+ late pregnancies or never have children
+ inactive or sedentary lifestyle
+ smoking
+ alcohol consumption of more than one drink per day
+ high-fat diet
What are the Warning Signs
* lump or thickening [a mass, swelling, skin irritation, or distortion]
in or near breast or in the underarm area
* nipple discharge with blood, erosion, inversion, or tenderness
* change in the colour or feel of the skin of the breast, areola,
or nipple [dimpled, puckered or scaly]
* change in the size or shape of the breast
Prevention Measure
[a] Breast Self Examination [BSE]
It is very important for every woman above 20 years old to learn and practise BSE regularly once a month, about a week after each menstrual period.
Women who no longer have periods should practise BSE on a fixed date each month.
About 90% of breast lumps are detected by BSE. These lumps are usually not cancerous but early detection of cancerous lumps in the breast gives the best chance of a completely successful treatment.
Routine Mammogram
Women age 40 - 49 years of age are encouraged to go for regular mammography every year while those 50 years and above should go every two years.
Women who are at higher risk of developing breast cancer should see a doctor for advice.
The cost of healthcare has increased tremendously over the last 10 years. Your finances and savings can be wiped out by a major hospitalisation. It is essential to ensure adequate insurance cover to cushion the financial burden if you should become critically ill.
Please feel free to contact me if you need more information about the critical illness insurance covers offer by NTUC INCOME, under no obligation of course.
Thursday, July 5, 2007
Smoking - Don't Puff Away Your Precious Life
Before you light up the next cigarette or cigar, think about the harm it can do to your health.
You may or may not know - all smokers are at extra risks for :-
* coronary heart disease [e.g. heart attacks]
* peripheral vascular disease [circulatory problems]
* aortic aneurysm
* high blood pressure
* high cholesterol [LDL]
* lung cancer
* cancer of the mouth, throat and voice box
* cancer of the pancreas
* cancer of the kidney and urinary bladder
* chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
* chronic bronchitis
* emphysema
* pneumonia
* influenza [flu]
* common cold
* peptic ulcers
* chronic bowel disease [crohn's disease]
* tooth decay [cavities]
* gum disease
* osteoporosis
* sleep problems [falling asleep inappropriately and/or frequent waking]
* cataracts
* thyroid disease [Grave's disease]
As for the female smokers , you are at extra risk for :-
+ cancer of the cervix [womb]
+ menstrual problems
+ fertility problems
+ spontaneous abortion
Male smokers have an extra risk of :-
^ erectile dysfunction [impotence]
^ fertility problems [problems with sperm]
There is also evidence linking smoking to cancer of the colon and leukaemia. Smoking can also cause wrinkles, creating the appearance of premature aging. The sense of smell and taste are also reduced.
Fortunately, most of these harmful effects are reversible.
So make a resolution to quit NOW !!!
You may or may not know - all smokers are at extra risks for :-
* coronary heart disease [e.g. heart attacks]
* peripheral vascular disease [circulatory problems]
* aortic aneurysm
* high blood pressure
* high cholesterol [LDL]
* lung cancer
* cancer of the mouth, throat and voice box
* cancer of the pancreas
* cancer of the kidney and urinary bladder
* chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
* chronic bronchitis
* emphysema
* pneumonia
* influenza [flu]
* common cold
* peptic ulcers
* chronic bowel disease [crohn's disease]
* tooth decay [cavities]
* gum disease
* osteoporosis
* sleep problems [falling asleep inappropriately and/or frequent waking]
* cataracts
* thyroid disease [Grave's disease]
As for the female smokers , you are at extra risk for :-
+ cancer of the cervix [womb]
+ menstrual problems
+ fertility problems
+ spontaneous abortion
Male smokers have an extra risk of :-
^ erectile dysfunction [impotence]
^ fertility problems [problems with sperm]
There is also evidence linking smoking to cancer of the colon and leukaemia. Smoking can also cause wrinkles, creating the appearance of premature aging. The sense of smell and taste are also reduced.
Fortunately, most of these harmful effects are reversible.
So make a resolution to quit NOW !!!
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
Saving Needs Self-Discipline
Ever heard of this :-
The success or failure of a long range savings and investment plan is
not predicated on the rate of return.
Its success depends on the use of a systematic plan of putting money in and leaving it there.
I truly subscribe to this belief. How about you? Indeed, there are some people who buy life insurance but give up half-way through for reason best known to themselves. So, by the time they need the money most they have none. Do you want this to happen to you?
So friends, only through a systematic and disciplined way can you
then see your money grows in the years to come. Think about it!!
The success or failure of a long range savings and investment plan is
not predicated on the rate of return.
Its success depends on the use of a systematic plan of putting money in and leaving it there.
I truly subscribe to this belief. How about you? Indeed, there are some people who buy life insurance but give up half-way through for reason best known to themselves. So, by the time they need the money most they have none. Do you want this to happen to you?
So friends, only through a systematic and disciplined way can you
then see your money grows in the years to come. Think about it!!
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