Source: The Straits Times, 4 June 2012
Chronic lung disease in Singapore could be costing patients and health-care facilities US$128 million (S$165 million) a year, representing a significant burden to the public health system.
This translates roughly to S$2,000 per patient per year.
Since insurers have a good gauge of the personal health claims, they can be part of the solution by collaborating with health providers to educate the public and policyholders about the lung disease and help to manage the costs as well as preventative measures.
TOP CAUSES OF DEATH IN S'PORE (2010)
Total number of deaths:17,610
Percentage of total deaths
1. Cancer: 28.5 per cent
2. Ischaemic heart disease:18.7 per cent
3. Pneumonia: 15.7 per cent
4. Cerebrovascular disease (including stroke): 8.4 per cent
5. Accidents, poisoning and violence: 5.5 per cent
6. Other heart diseases: 4.8 per cent
7. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: 2.5 per cent
8. Urinary tract infection: 2.5 per cent
9. Nephritis, Nephrotic syndrome and Nephrosis: 2.2 per cent
