In Singapore, 34 people suffer heart attacks daily, and 23 lose their lives to heart disease.
SINGAPORE: A groundbreaking study involving over 10,000 Singaporeans is set to combat heart disease by identifying early warning signs of this “notorious silent killer.”
Named Project RESET, this five-year, government-funded research initiative will collect data from participants aged 40 to 70. The study will examine lifestyle, genetic factors, and other biomarkers to develop preventive strategies for heart disease.
Speaking at the project’s launch on Sep 27, Health Minister Ong Ye Kung underscored the severity of the issue: “On average, 34 people in Singapore have heart attacks, and 23 die from heart disease daily.”
The initiative’s goal is to uncover cardio-liver-metabolic biomarkers in individuals who show no symptoms but may already be at risk. “Hopefully, with these findings, we can unmuzzle this silent killer,” said Mr. Ong at the Heart Disease Prevention Symposium at the Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel.
Understanding Risk Beyond Fitness
Professor Roger Foo, the lead researcher and senior consultant at the National University Heart Centre, explained that many individuals who appear fit may still harbor underlying health risks.
“We’ve become very aware that fitness and health are not the same thing,” he said. For instance, while marathon runners may excel in endurance, their arterial health and metabolic function can sometimes reveal unexpected vulnerabilities.
The project aims to target individuals with moderate heart disease risks or a family history of conditions such as high cholesterol and hypertension.
“We will screen participants deeply, looking under the surface for early signs of disease,” Prof. Foo said. Findings will help primary care physicians conduct better diagnostics and treatments, potentially reshaping patient care in the future.
Innovative Technology in Use
Project RESET will leverage advanced tools, including a virtual reality glove that allows participants to “hold” their heart and gauge muscle stiffness—a key indicator of future disease risk. Participants will also wear digital smartwatches to track their lifestyle habits over time.
The study will involve 10 medical schools, research institutions, and private healthcare providers, with pilot testing in Queenstown’s Health District.
One participant, 64-year-old Mike Tan, joined the project after previous research identified fatty liver issues. “I’ve always considered myself fit, but I’m not sure about my underlying health,” he said. “This study is a useful way to check my heart and metabolic health.”
A Step Toward Better Prevention
With a S$25 million grant, Project RESET aims to provide comprehensive insights into the early detection of heart disease. Its findings, expected at the end of five years, promise to guide physicians on improved testing and treatment approaches, helping to prevent the onset of this silent but deadly condition.
