National Population Health Survey: Singapore’s Rising Levels of Central Obesity

Clinician's Perspective:

• Central Obesity Trends: The prevalence of abdominal obesity continues to rise, with the crude rate recorded at 43.6% in the 2023-2024 cycle, compared to 40.6% in 2019-2020. Central Obesity is linked to poor metabolic health.

• 22.8% were in the high-risk BMI category according to the Asian classification of BMI categories.

• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Contrary to previous upward trends, the crude prevalence of Hypertension remained stable at 33.8% in 2023-2024 (down from 35.5% in 2019-2020).

• Hyperlipidemia (high blood cholesterol) saw a notable decrease, falling from 39.1% in 2019-2020 to 30.5% in 2023-2024, possibly due to improved detection and treatment.

• The crude prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus remained stable at 9.1%, showing a slight improvement from the 9.5% recorded in 2019-2020. ​The State of the Nation’s Health, The Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Health Promotion Board (HPB) of Singapore released the National Population Health Survey (NPHS) 2023-2024. This comprehensive report serves as a critical biological speedometer for Singapore, tracking the health behaviors and chronic condition trends of residents aged 18 to 74. While the data shows commendable progress in cholesterol management and the stabilization of diabetes, it highlights a persistent challenge with undiagnosed conditions and lifestyle management.

The Weight and Activity Challenge ​

The data reveals that abdominal obesity levels have remained high, affecting 43.6% of the population. This stability is a focal point for public health planners, as weight management is closely linked to the prevention of other metabolic conditions. While previous years saw a slump in physical activity due to changing commuter habits, the current focus remains on ensuring these levels do not erode the progress made in other areas.

Managing the "Silent Killers"

​Chronic diseases, often referred to as silent killers because they frequently lack obvious symptoms, showed a mix of stabilization and improvement. The prevalence of ​Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) has stabilized at 33.8%. However, a major concern remains: 51.2% of residents with hypertension had not been previously diagnosed, meaning over half are unaware of their risk. ​

Hyperlipidemia (High Blood Cholesterol)

This is a standout success story. Crude prevalence dropped from 39.1% to 30.5%. Despite this improvement, 41.3% of those with high cholesterol remain undiagnosed.

​Diabetes Mellitus

Stability is the keyword here. At 9.1% (crude rate), the prevalence has remained steady. However, management remains a hurdle; among known diabetics, 66.5% did not meet the recommended target for glycemic control (HbA1C < 7%). ​

Mental Health and Screening Gaps

​The survey also highlights a positive shift in mental health literacy. Residents are increasingly willing to seek help from both formal networks (64.0%) and informal support systems like friends and family (81.8%). ​However, the "screening gap" remains a priority. With 1 in 6 individuals with diabetes and more than half of individuals with hypertension are unaware of their condition, the call for regular health screenings is more urgent than ever. Early detection remains the most effective way to manage chronic conditions before they lead to severe complications like kidney failure or stroke.

Why This Matters

​As Singapore’s population ages, the interplay between lifestyle and chronic disease becomes more complex. While the stabilization of diabetes and hypertension is a positive sign that the "War on Diabetes" and other salt-reduction campaigns may be working, the high rate of undiagnosed cases suggests that many residents are not undergoing regular health screenings. The 2023-2024 data proves that while we are holding the line, the next victory must come from increased screening and better control of existing conditions.

Evidence Strength: This is a high-quality national surveillance study with a large, representative sample of the Singaporean population, providing high-certainty evidence for local health trends. Final Rating: ★★★★★

Source: Read the full study