Preventing Blindness & Improving Sight
SERI Secures $25 Million Grant to Research Age-Related Macular Degeneration Also In This Issue:
Editor’s
2025 marks a milestone year for SNEC as we celebrate our 35th anniversary since our founding in 1990 by Prof Arthur Lim. We caught up with our CEO, Prof Aung Tin, to discuss his vision for the future, which is guided by our purpose statement – “Preventing Blindness, Improving Sight”.
We are happy to share that our research arm, SERI, has secured a $25 million research grant to support the Translational Asian Agerelated Macular Degeneration Programme Phase 2 (TAAP-2). Led by Prof Gemmy Cheung, this program aims to develop methods for early detection and enhancing treatments to improve patient outcomes for Age-Related Macular Degeneration. She also received the prestigious STaR Investigator Grant Award from the Ministry of Health’s National Medical Research Council.
In addition, two of our esteemed faculty members, Prof Jodhbir Mehta and Assoc Prof Daniel Ting were awarded prestigious national honours for their contributions to science and technology including artificial intelligence (AI) in 2024.
SNEC-SERI continues to forge global partnerships to pave the way for new treatments ranging from corneal to cataract surgery. We have signed a MOU with Byers Eye Institute at Stanford University to enhance research, education, and clinical care in ophthalmology on 12 November 2024. The second collaboration, between Zeiss and SERI, brings impactful expertise at a combined funding of nearly $20 million supported under Singapore’s Research, Innovation and Enterprise 2025 Plan.
We have also hosted a series of international ophthalmology conferences to push the boundaries of retinal and uveitis care.
In this issue, you will learn more about ocular inflammation or inflammation of the eye, which is often misunderstood as a minor condition, such as sore eyes or conjunctivitis.
Lastly, we find out more about corneal transplantation, cornea donation and the challenging role of the Singapore Eye Bank counsellor.
EDITORIAL COMMITTEE
EDITORS-IN-CHIEF
Assoc Prof Audrey Chia
Dr Loh Kai-Lyn
EDITOR
Ravi Chandran
CO-EDITORS
Wong Cui Yan Jaclyn Tan
DESIGN
Fuse Creative (Singapore)
Contents
We hope you’ll enjoy reading our stories!
Singapore National Eye Centre is the designated national centre within the public sector healthcare network. It spearheads and coordinates the provision of specialised ophthalmological services, with emphasis on quality education and research.
SingVision is a publication of Singapore National Eye Centre and Singapore Eye Research Institute. No material may be reproduced in part or in whole without prior written consent from the Publishers. Views and opinions expressed in SingVision are not necessarily those of the Publishers or the Editors. Although reasonable care has been taken to ensure the accuracy and objectivity of the information provided in this publication, neither the Publishers, Editors or their employees or agents can be held liable for any errors or omissions, nor any action taken based on the views expressed or information provided within this publication. MDDI (P) 055/02/2025
4 Happy 35th Birthday, SNEC! 7 SERI Unlocks AMD’s Genetic Secrets and Secures $25m Grant For Research Advancement
8 SNEC Trailblazers: A Double Win for Research & Innovation
9 SNEC-SERI Scientists Shine Again: 27 Ranked Top 2% Globally
10 SNEC at the Forefront 12 Understanding Corneal Transplantation: Overcoming Fears and Addressing Scarcity
Advancing Eye Care Through International Collaborations
18 Oriental Odyssey: SNEC-SERI’s Journey to Save Sight 22 Growing Together: Celebrating 35 Years of Care
23 SNEC Cares: Bringing Eye Care to Our Community Caring
Happy 35th Birthday, SNEC!
As SNEC celebrates this important milestone in 2025, our SingVision editorial team caught up with our Chief Executive Officer of SNEC, Professor Aung Tin, to hear about SNEC’s Purpose: Preventing Blindness, Improving Sight, as well as his vision for the future.
Q: What does SNEC’s purpose mean to you?
Everyone who walks through our doors has an eye problem affecting their quality of life. We’re here to prevent blindness and improve sight. Because of their eye issues, our patients are hoping to receive kindness and patience from our staff. I’ve seen patients like Adrian, who lost part of his vision due to glaucoma and cataract. He was discouraged when he fell due to his poor vision. Cases like his remind me of why our work matters. We’re not just treating eyes and improving sight but also helping our patients improve their quality of life.
Q: How does this purpose statement guide SNEC’s patient care?
Our purpose guides everything we do at SNEC. Every one of us can make a difference, whether one is directly interacting with patients or supporting behind-the-scenes, we are all trying to help patients see better.
Q: Why did you enter the field of glaucoma?
When I was a resident, I was struck by how little we knew about glaucoma, especially angle-closure glaucoma, which is the form of glaucoma that causes a lot of blindness in Asia. Most of the research done back then came from Western countries, where this form of glaucoma wasn’t very prevalent. There was a dire need to study this in Asian populations. I also saw a lot of people going blind from angle-closure glaucoma during my practice. Hence, I embarked on a career in glaucoma.
Q: This year is our 35th anniversary, what’s your vision and wishes for SNEC?
My vision is for us to lead the way in preventive eye care, especially as Singapore prepares for a superaged population. With an increase in age-related eye conditions like diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and cataracts, alongside other health issues, we need innovative care models that prioritise early intervention, safety, and better outcomes. Embracing new technologies will be essential in achieving this.
Q: Can you share an interesting fact about SNEC?
Ever wonder why the Singapore National Eye Centre has both “Singapore” and “National” in its name? Back in 1989, a group of five senior government officials debated the best name for it. “National Eye Centre” sounded right for its local significance, but it didn’t quite highlight that this was Singapore’s national eye centre, especially when seen internationally. So, they added “Singapore” to make it more prominent. That’s how the name “Singapore National Eye Centre” was born.
GETTING TO KNOW OUR CEO
Q: How do you keep yourself healthy?
My daily schedule is very busy due to numerous meetings and sessions with various stakeholders, including SingHealth, Duke-NUS, and the Ministry of Health.
To maintain a healthy lifestyle, I try to go to the gym at least twice a week with a personal trainer. I also make time for walks a few times a week and swimming once or twice a month.
Q: What are your hobbies?
In my free time, I enjoy reading, watching football, and playing mahjong, although I haven’t had much time for mahjong lately.
A Glimpse into the History of Ophthalmology in Singapore
Did you know that the first government ophthalmology department was established at Singapore General Hospital in 1934? Back then, they only had two operating theatres, which were used for major surgeries and examinations under anesthesia. The eye patients were mainly treated for cataract surgery, acute glaucoma, and trauma.
Subsequently, ophthalmology in Singapore took root as new eye departments were established at Tan Tock Seng Hospital and the National University Hospital. However, it was when SNEC was set up in 1990 that marked the beginning of rapid progress in ophthalmology in Singapore. The late Professor Arthur Lim was an eminent and internationally renowned eye surgeon who paved the way for the creation of a globally renowned eye centre.
The growth of SNEC has been phenomenal. From the original team of nine staff, the centre now has a staff strength of more than 1,000. Indeed, SNEC has been recognised among the world’s renowned eye centres.
Our CEO, a Liverpool football fan, at a match at Anfield Stadium with his daughter
Top: SNEC celebrates its 35th anniversary this year.
Bottom: The old SNEC was housed in Surgical Blocks A and B at Singapore General Hospital, before 1989.
SERI Unlocks AMD’s Genetic Secrets and Secures $25m Grant For Research Advancement
Imagine a world where the colours of life start to fade day by day. This is the reality for millions affected by Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD), a chronic and irreversible condition that often leads to central vision loss. This makes everyday tasks such as reading, recognising faces, and driving challenging.
AMD, a thief of sight, affects one in every 10 individuals aged 70 and above, as well as many adults in their prime. In Singapore, an estimated 5-7% of those aged 40 and above have this disease in varying degrees.
This condition is not just a local concern; by 2040, AMD is expected to affect 113 million people in Asia and 288 million globally. The risk factors include smoking and family history, but these only account for a small portion of cases.
Fortunately, significant efforts are underway to combat AMD. SERI, supported by grants from the National Medical Research Council (NMRC), is at the forefront of these efforts.
After receiving an initial $24 million grant in 2018, SERI recently secured a second grant of $25 million. These funds support the Translational Asian Age-related
The second phase of TAAP is focused on developing methods for early detection and enhancing treatments to improve patient outcomes. In collaboration with the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), researchers are working on an antibody to block harmful chemicals in AMD patients. This innovation could significantly improve treatment effectiveness.
Prof Cheung highlighted the importance of personalised treatment for AMD, noting that regular eye injections are a common therapy. However, not all patients respond equally well. The TAAP-2 researchers aim to understand these varying responses to tailor treatments more effectively.
Looking ahead, SERI and SingHealth plan to launch AMD screening programmes in community hospitals by early 2025. This initiative will help specialists to detect AMD early, allowing for timely intervention and potentially preserving more vision for those affected.
While there is currently no cure for AMD, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can significantly slow its progression and help maintain vision. The ongoing research and innovations by SERI and its partners offer hope for those affected by this chronic eye condition.
Scan to read our news coverage and watch Prof Gemmy Cheung as she shares more on AMD and the role of TAAP.
Macular Degeneration Programme (TAAP), which aims to translate research findings into tangible benefits for those with AMD.
TAAP is the world’s first large-scale study of its kind targeting Asian populations. The first phase of TAAP, led by Prof Gemmy Cheung, Lead Principal Investigator for TAAP, Director for Clinical Translational Research at SERI and Head of the Medical Retina Department at SNEC, has yielded promising results. The team discovered six new genes associated with AMD and published over 150 peerreviewed papers. This research has paved the way for better understanding and management of the disease.
AMD Symptoms
• A dim, blurry spot in one’s vision
• Crooked vision such as straight lines appearing wavy
• Patchy loss of vision
• Fibrosis (scar tissue in the eye) in late stages
• Swelling and bleeding (late stage) due to abnormal blood vessels
Key members of the research team explain the TAAP objectives
Restore Sight
“We are committed to finding strategies to identify personalised therapy biomarkers. This approach will enable us to customise treatments based on individual patient features, moving away from a one-size-fits-all method.”
Prof Gemmy Cheung, Director, Clinical Translational Research, SERI
Reveal Pathology
“We will look into opportunities in visualising AMD-related pathology in vivo. The focus is directed towards quantification of the degree of fibrotic changes in the retina, a novel treatment target for late stage AMD.”
Prof Leopold Schmetterer, Head, Ocular Imaging, SERI
Re-invent
Eyecare Models
“Currently, we have been focused on treating the advanced stages of AMD. By re-inventing eye care models, we will look at how we can screen, monitor and intervene much earlier for this sight threatening condition.”
Dr Kelvin Teo, Lead Researcher, SERI
Redefine Therapy
“We will investigate new genes for targeted AMD therapies. This includes discovering new molecules that drive scar formation in Asian AMD patients; and third, developing treatments to prevent or even reverse scarring, with the goal of preserving or restoring vision.”
A/Prof Wang Xiaomeng, Director, Lab Operations, SERI
SNEC’s Trailblazers: A Double Win for Research & Innovation
In the rapidly evolving field of ophthalmology, two of our esteemed faculty members, Prof Jodhbir Mehta and Assoc Prof Prof Daniel Ting have been awarded prestigious national honours for their groundbreaking contributions to science and technology including artificial intelligence (AI).
Prof Jodhbir Mehta, Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Research) at SNEC and Executive Director of SERI, has been awarded the National Outstanding Clinician Scientist Award 2024. This honour, part of the National Medical Excellence Awards, recognises his significant contributions to clinical and translational research in ophthalmology over 15 years.
Prof Mehta’s prolific work in corneal transplant research has led to novel understandings of corneal diseases, significantly impacting healthcare delivery. With over 520 peer-reviewed papers and 24 patents, six of which have been commercialised, his dedication to research and innovation is commendable. His work in corneal transplantation has global significance and his expertise is internationally recognised.
Prof Mehta is also a passionate educator. Through teaching and supervising junior clinicians, fellows, and researchers, he is committed to nurturing future ophthalmologists, continuously sharing his vast knowledge and experience with them.
In addition, A/Prof Daniel Ting, a Senior Consultant in the Surgical Retina Department and Chief Data and Digital Officer of SNEC, has been recognised with the
prestigious Young Scientist Award 2024. This accolade is part of the President’s Science and Technology Awards, Singapore’s highest honour for research scientists and engineers.
SNEC-SERI Scientists Shine Again: 27 Ranked Top 2% Globally
SNEC-SERI continues to lead the way in global scientific research. In the latest Elsevier-Stanford study, 27 of our scientists have been recognised as among the top 2% most cited researchers worldwide.
His award-winning research focuses on developing safe, ethical, and responsible AI applications in ophthalmology. His work integrates advanced technologies like machine learning and deep learning to tackle global eye health challenges. A prime example of his innovation is SELENA+—a deep learning algorithm designed to detect major blinding eye diseases, including diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration. This tool has been instrumental in over 500,000 screenings worldwide, bringing early detection and enhanced diagnostic accuracy to the forefront of ophthalmic care.
By merging AI with clinical practices, A/Prof Ting aims to reduce the global burden of eye and systemic vascular diseases with more personalised, efficient, and safer healthcare solutions.
The awards received by Prof Mehta and A/Prof Ting are not just personal accolades; they reflect the potential for their research to revolutionise healthcare practices worldwide. These recognitions underscore Singapore’s commitment to advancing science and technology, fostering an environment where groundbreaking research can thrive. We look forward to seeing how their work continues to shape the future of healthcare.
This prestigious recognition is based on the significant impact of their citations in 2023. Among these outstanding researchers, 15 have also been acknowledged for their long-term career impact, with their citations spanning from 1996 to 2023.
This achievement follows our continued success in 2022 and 2021, where 23 and 20 of our SNEC-SERI scientists, respectively, were also ranked in the top 2% in the Elsevier-Stanford study.
The study itself is a comprehensive analysis, indexing over 100,000 scientists across 22 diverse fields. Within the SingHealth Duke-NUS AMC, a remarkable 66 and 97 scientists (including those from SNEC-SERI) were named in the two impact categories.
“It is truly an outstanding achievement to have a noteworthy number of the SERI researchers, across the experience spectrum, featured among the top 2% most cited researchers worldwide, notwithstanding the size of Singapore,” expressed Prof Ecosse Lamoureux, Senior Principal Clinician Scientist and Director, Population Research and Clinical Epidemiology, SERI.
Elsevier-Stanford Top 2% Scientists from SNEC-SERI
1) Prof Aung Tin
2) Prof Jodhbir Mehta
3) Prof Wong Tien Yin
4) Clin Prof Donald Tan
5) Prof Leopold Schmetterer
6) Prof Ecosse Lamoureux
7) Prof Cheng Ching-Yu
8) Prof Gemmy Cheung
9) Prof Louis Tong
10) Prof Dan Milea
Professor Ecosse is among the 15 researchers recognised for the impact of his citations, both recently in 2023 and over the long term.
These accomplishments are a testament to our unwavering commitment to research and innovation. We are incredibly proud of all our scientists and their inspiring work!
“Equally remarkable, is the recognition of the research undertaken by my group and others with a focus on the epidemiology of eye diseases and age-related sensory decline; the implementation of new interventions, models of care, and screening programmes; and patient-reported outcomes measures (PROMs), using several cutting-edge instruments, including novel computerized adaptive testing systems (CATs) in Ophthalmology.”
- Prof Ecosse Lamoureux
11) Prof Saw Seang Mei
12) A/Prof Daniel Ting
13) A/Prof Audrey Chia
14) A/Prof Danny Cheung
15) A/Prof Gavin Tan
16) A/Prof Marcus Ang
17) A/Prof Liu Yu-Chi
18) A/Prof Charumathi Sabanayagam
19) A/Prof Jacqueline Chua
20) Adj A/Prof Michael Girard
21) Adj A/Prof Rupesh Agrawal
22) Dr Tham Yih Chung
23) A/Prof Amutha Veluchamy, Barathi
24) Dr Zhen Ling Teo
25) Adj Dr Dinesh Visva Gunasekeran
26) Adj Prof Chee Soon Phaik
27) Adj Prof Yasuo Yanagi
Left: Prof Jodhbir Mehta. Right: A/Prof Daniel Ting
SNEC AT THE FOREFRONT
SNEC is helping to push the boundaries of retinal and uveitis care by hosting a series of international opthalmology conferences in November 2024. These conferences showcased cutting-edge advancements, surgical innovations, and collaborations that are shaping the future of eye health.
TRANSFORMING RETINAL DISEASE MANAGEMENT: 17TH APVRS CONGRESS
The 17th Asia-Pacific Vitreo-Retina Society (APVRS) Congress was held at the Suntec International Convention and Exhibition Centre on 22-24 November 2024. Themed “Transforming Retinal Disease Management with Technology,” the meeting gathered a distinguished international faculty of top specialists in vitreo-retina to share their expertise and experience. The scientific program focused on exciting areas such as novel surgical innovations and therapies, and latest advances in imaging and research.
Professor Gemmy Cheung, Senior Consultant and Head of the Medical Retina, SNEC, chaired the congress, which attracted over 2,000 delegates from around 40 countries. This event was supported by international and local organising committees, comprising members from SNEC, National University Hospital (NUH), Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH) and private practice as well as the College of Ophthalmologists, Academy of Medicine, Singapore, and the Singapore Society of Ophthalmology.
FELLOWS ADVANCE AT THE DUKE-SNEC FAVS COURSE
SNEC’s Medical and Surgical Faculty collaborated with Duke Eye Center to organise the inaugural Duke-SNEC Fellows Advanced Vitreous Surgery (FAVS) course on 21 November 2024.
The course featured the latest cutting-edge vitreoretinal surgical techniques and strategies where more than 60 surgical and medical retina fellows and specialists from 15 countries attended.
Chaired by Clin A/Prof Andrew Tsai, Senior Consultant, Surgical Retina, SNEC, and Dr Farah Ibrahim, Consultant, Medical Retina, SNEC, the course showcased the latest cutting-edge vitreoretinal surgical techniques, strategies to approach the most challenging surgical cases and hands-on wet-lab sessions.
UNLOCKING UVEITIS: A JOINT SNEC-IUSG CONFERENCE
SNEC also hosted over 200 participants from 40 countries in a two-day conference jointly organised with the International Uveitis Study Group (IUSG).
The programme was designed to achieve two key objectives of IUSG: training the next generation of Uveitis experts and developing consensus and guidelines in areas where none currently exist.
The first day of the meeting, titled “Unlocking Uveitis: Integrating Imaging into Clinical Practice,” featured a series of lectures by world-renowned experts.
The second day of the meeting was dedicated to Multimodal Imaging in Uveitis, a pioneering initiative by IUSG that aims to define disease criteria using Multimodal Imaging in Uveitis.
To top it all, there was a live-surgery demonstration of a complex Uveitis-cataract case. The meeting was co-chaired by Professor Vishali Gupta from IUSG and Adjunct Prof Chee Soon Phaik, Visiting Consultant, SNEC.
Understanding Corneal Transplantation: Overcoming
Fears and Addressing Scarcity
Corneal transplantation was once a major surgery requiring general anaesthesia and involving the replacement of the entire cornea. Based on international literature, the success rate stood at a modest 54.6 percent. However, technological advancements have propelled this success rate to 94 percent where patients now benefit from faster recovery times, reduced complications, and improved vision quality.
This leap in success is largely due to a minimally invasive technique such as Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK). This procedure involves transplanting only the endothelial layer of the cornea, a microscopic layer measuring a mere 10 to 15 microns in thickness. Performed through a keyhole incision under local anaesthesia, DMEK offers a safer and less complicated procedure. As Singapore Eye Bank (SEB) at SNEC supplies the cornea, this surgery can be completed in just 30 minutes, enabling patients to regain normal vision within weeks.
A corneal transplant becomes necessary when the cornea is damaged due to keratoconus, corneal ulcers, scarring from trauma, or other degenerative diseases. Certain genetic conditions, such as corneal dystrophies, can also impact the cornea. Fuchs’ dystrophy, a condition that causes swollen corneas, is caused by a gene change that affects some family members. Symptoms may not manifest until the age of 30 or later.
Corneal blindness, the fifth leading cause of blindness worldwide, has a significant impact on senior citizens aged 50 and above as the cornea naturally degenerates with age. In Singapore, where 620 corneal transplants were performed in 2023 alone, most patients were over the age of 50, with the oldest recipient being 98 years old.
Despite the encouraging number of 620 corneal transplants performed in Singapore in 2023, only 129 of the corneas were donated locally. The majority of corneas were sourced from the US, Singapore’s sole foreign supplier. “Support for cornea donation needs to increase in Singapore for us to bring the local supply up.” said Associate Prof Marcus Ang, Senior Consultant and Head of the Corneal & External Eye Disease and Refractive Surgery departments at SNEC.
SNEC handles about 60 percent of all transplants in the country. Though SEB’s partnership with the US has been fruitful, and cornea supply has remained reliable, a global shortage means only one in 90 patients worldwide receives the transplant they need.
Raising awareness and breaking down misconceptions about cornea donation is crucial. The SEB and SNEC are passionately committed to this mission, working tirelessly to change perceptions and educate the public about the importance of cornea donation.
Cornea Donation: Giving Sight
12 hours from the moment the heart stops beating – that’s the window of time the Singapore Eye Bank’s (SEB) tissue recovery team has to retrieve corneas. The first step of every corneal transplant starts here.
Corneal transplants are sight-saving operations, but they require viable tissue, and the donor pool is restricted to the recently deceased. Eye Bank counsellors like Zhang Jia Qin are responsible for obtaining cornea donations, which requires consent from the next-of-kin.
It’s not an easy or fun job. “Every time you see a family, a patient has died. We need to be extra sensitive and show empathy,” Jia Qin shared. “You’re never visiting on a happy occasion.”
Despite the challenging circumstances, Jia Qin finds meaning in her work, knowing that it brings hope to those in need of sight restoration. In the case of an elderly donor from the SGH ICU ward whose next-ofkin Jia Qin had approached, his corneas eventually went to a pediatric recipient in NUH.
Jia Qin has been a cornea donation counsellor with the SEB since 2006. Tapping on her experience as a former operating theatre nurse in SGH, she was able to navigate the complex process of assessing donors, obtaining consent, and retrieving corneas within a 12-hour window – all while providing grief counselling to bereaved families and clearing up misconceptions about cornea donations.
Her favourite part of her job? Being the vital link between donors and recipients. Unlike cataract surgery where artificial lenses are accessible and widely administered, artificial corneas have very
specific indications and are not suitable for all patients. There is no comparable substitute for the gift of the cornea from a generous donor. Jia Qin and her colleagues are the unsung heroes of cornea donation, enabling life-changing transplants and groundbreaking research with their dedication and compassion.
As Eye Bank counsellor, Jia Qin participates in educational roadshows to promote cornea donations, but more still needs to be done to raise awareness. “We just don’t want to put the burden on people when the actual time comes. It would be easier if families can make informed decisions and that benefits my job and the recipients.”
Scan the QR code for more details on Eye Bank
As an Eye Bank counsellor, Jia Qin needs to navigate the complex process of assessing eye donors, obtaining consent, and retrieving corneas within a 12-hour window.
Advancing Eye Care Through International Collaborations
SNEC-SERI are forging global collaborations to pave the way for new treatments ranging from corneal to cataract surgery.
On 12 November 2024, SNEC-SERI entered a threeyear agreement with the United States’ Byers Eye Institute at Stanford University to enhance research, education, and clinical care in ophthalmology.
One of the current research projects include developing alternatives to corneal transplants, so that only the affected parts of the eye will be treated or replaced.
Professor Jodhbir Mehta, Executive Director of SERI, said that this involves tissue engineering to replace damaged scarred corneas in patients who have suffered vision loss because of corneal infection, using a combination of scaffolds and cells. Scaffolds, which are usually composed of polymeric biomaterials, offer structural support that cells can grow on and develop into tissue.
“The individual teams have been working on their own respective parts of the project; now the next step is to combine the technologies together to take it further. There will also be an exchange of students or postdoctoral researchers working on this project,” said Prof Mehta.
In addition, trainees and junior faculty from SNEC and SERI will have the opportunity to participate in ophthalmic internships and fellowships at Stanford University.
The collaboration will also allow the institutions to use each other’s expertise in artificial intelligence and digital programmes, as well as to access retinal image datasets from populations in the US and Asia to improve the detection of eye diseases.
The second partnership, between Carl Zeiss Meditec and SERI, was announced on 14 November 2024 at SNEC. This collaboration brings together impactful expertise at a combined funding of nearly $20 million supported under Singapore’s Research, Innovation and Enterprise 2025 Plan, an initiative aimed at enhancing the nation’s research and development from 2021 to 2025.
Cataract and refractive surgeries are the most common ophthalmic surgical procedures worldwide, and demand for such procedures is expected to increase with an ageing population.
Associate Professor Shamira Perera, who is co-head of the cataract and refractive surgery research group at SERI and responsible for overseeing the area of cataract surgery under the collaboration with Zeiss, shared that SNEC carries out about 21,000 cataract operations a year.
One of the projects is the development of a new type of intra-ocular lens (IOL) to replace the clouded lens in the eye. Prof Perera said currently available multifocal IOLs may not be suitable for some patients, particularly those with pre-existing eye conditions such as retinal disease and glaucoma. These lenses can cause issues such as glare and halos and may also lead to reduced vision in low-light conditions.
The project aims to find novel solutions to those issues so that multifocal IOLs can suit more patients, he added. The hope is that these patients will no longer need corrective eyewear if they can receive such IOLs during cataract surgery.
The research team is starting with its first human clinical studies within a year and hopes to commercialise the new IOL by the end of the next three years.
Zeiss and SERI will work together to enhance processes before and during surgery, so that patients can enjoy faster visual rehabilitation and better longterm stability after their procedures.
Professor Aung Tin, CEO of SNEC (front row, left), Professor Jodhbir Mehta, ED, SERI (front row, right), and Professor Jeffrey Goldberg, Chair at the Department of Ophthalmology, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University signed MOU to enhance education, clinical care and research in ophthalmology. This was witnessed by Associate Professor Daniel Ting, Senior Consultant, SNEC, Professor Ng Wai Hoe, Group CEO, SingHealth and Professor Thomas Coffman, Dean, Duke-NUS Medical School. (back row from left to right)
Dr Markus Weber, President & CEO, Carl Zeiss Meditec AG, and Professor Jodhbir Mehta (front row, right), ED, SERI, signed an agreement between the two institutions for the OPTIZS strategic partnership on 14 November 2024. This was witnessed by Professor Thomas Coffman, Dean, Duke-NUS Medical School, and Mr Magnus Reibenspiess, President, ZEISS Ophthalmology (back row, right).
Understanding Inflammation of the Eye: More Than Just Sore Eyes
Ocular inflammation or inflammation of the eye is often misunderstood as a minor condition, such as sore eyes or conjunctivitis. However, as Dr Anita Chan, Head and Senior Consultant in the Ocular Inflammation and Immunology Department at SNEC explains, it can be much more serious.
“When we talk about ocular inflammation, we’re actually referring to inflammation inside the eyeball, which is much more serious because it affects critical structures like the optic nerve, retina, and cornea,” says Dr Chan. One of the causes of ocular inflammation includes ocular infections, which if not properly treated, can lead to significant complications, including vision loss.
One lesser-known cause of ocular inflammation is shingles. Dr Chan notes that while most people are aware of the painful skin rash associated with shingles, many do not realise it can also impact the eyes. “After the initial shingles infection around the eye area, several weeks later, extension of the inflammation into the eye can lead to increased eye pressure and a transient glaucoma picture of blurred vision and headache,” she explains. In severe cases, if the patient’s immune system is compromised, the inflammation can even reach the retina, potentially causing serious damage such as retinal necrosis.
Diabetes is another condition that can contribute to ocular inflammation. While diabetic retinopathy is
widely recognised, Dr Chan highlights that in severe cases, infections related to poorly controlled diabetes where they have abscesses or infections elsewhere in the body, can spread to the eye, and cause a severe condition called endophthalmitis, where the entire eyeball is infected.
Recognising the signs of ocular inflammation is crucial for timely treatment. Dr Chan advises, “Blurring of vision, floaters, or a cloudy sensation in the eye are potential indicators especially if they occur with pain. If these symptoms occur, especially following an infection like shingles or in the context of diabetes, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly.”
While ocular inflammation is not extremely common, it can affect individuals of all ages and, if left untreated, may result in significant vision impairment. Dr Chan emphasises the importance of managing underlying health conditions like diabetes, avoiding stress and seeking early treatment for infections, which are one of the causes of ocular inflammation, to minimise the risk of ocular complications.
Uveitis refers to the inflammation of the uveal tract, the middle layer of the eye which includes the iris, ciliary body and choroid.
What Causes Ocular Inflammation?
Uveitis may result from a wide variety of causes, including:
• Bacterial infections and viral infections, especially herpes viruses, fungal infections and parasitic infections such as toxoplasmosis
• Autoimmune diseases or localised immune dysregulation
• Drug-related causes
• Cancer, i.e. masquerade syndromes
How Is Ocular Inflammation Diagnosed?
To diagnose uveitis accurately, an ophthalmologist will conduct a thorough eye examination, including vision assessment and fundus examination. Given the association of uveitis with various medical conditions, additional investigations such as blood tests, skin tests, or X-rays may be necessary to determine the type and cause of inflammation. More invasive tests such as ocular fluid biopsies may also be required for microbiology cultures and cytological examination. While these investigations involve time and some costs, they are crucial for an accurate diagnosis and the identification of the underlying cause, enabling optimal treatment planning.
Given the potential connection between uveitis and systemic health, your ophthalmologist may seek a multidisciplinary approach and expert opinions from your primary care physician or other medical specialists.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the diagnosis. Steroids are the main medication to reduce inflammation, especially in the absence of infections. These may be administered as eyedrops, injections or oral tablets, especially
in severe cases. However as these cannot be used on a long-term basis, other immuno-modulatory agents commonly used by rheumatologists may also be required in severe or chronic cases. Other medications may be prescribed as adjuncts to steroids to treat any complications such as anti-microbial therapy for infection-induced inflammation, antiglaucoma eyedrops and mydriatics for pain relief.
What Are the Complications of Uveitis?
Left untreated, inflammation of the eye can permanently affect sight and even lead to blindness. Uveitis may result in the following complications:
• Glaucoma (raised eye pressure)
• Cataract (clouding of the native lens of human eyes)
• Neovascularization of the iris and/ or retina (growth of new, abnormal blood vessels)
• Cystoid Macular Oedema (swelling of the central retina, macula)
• Retinal and choroidal damage (retinal and choroidal scars)
These complications may occur in cases of chronic and severe eye inflammation. Specialist care is essential to appropriately manage your eye condition.
How Successful is Treatment of Uveitis?
Treatment success varies based on the type of uveitis. Treatment aims to remedy the underlying cause and in some autoimmune conditions, it is hard to attain cure. In such cases we aim to suppress the immune activity until the disease becomes inactive and no further eye symptoms ensure. The duration and recurrence of the disease are unpredictable, underscoring the importance of regular monitoring and specialist care for a personalised regimen.
THE EYE BALL 2024
SNEC’s annual fundraising gala dinner, the EYE BALL continues to be a success. In 2024, we raised more than $2 million for VisionSave, our philanthropic initiative to raise funds for needy patients, eye research and ophthalmic education.
The 12th edition this year was held at The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore on 31 August 2024. The gala saw 660 guests dressed to the theme of “Oriental Opulence”.
Clin Assoc Prof Ho Ching Lin, organising chair for the EYE BALL 2024, shared, “Picture a father of three, on the verge of losing not just his vision but his ability to provide for his family. Thanks to VisionSave, he received the critical treatment he needed. Today, he sees not only with his eyes but with a renewed spirit. This is the kind of impact your support makes possible!”
The grand event kicked off with the thundering drum performance by the ZingO Festival Drum Group. Other highlights included engaging performances by Ms Calista Liaw, a local Er Hu virtuoso and talented performers from Er Hu Society (Singapore) as well as lovely song performances by Dr Howard Cajucom-Uy Yu and the event’s host Ms Nikki Muller. The Chinese painting team - Dr Maurice Chan, Ms Yang Shwn Fen and Mr Mohan our ophthalmic investigation staff, also engaged the guests with their live paintings on the oriental theme.
ORIENTAL ODYSSEY
Apart from the silent auction, the excitement heated up with the live auction with an array of exquisite items and experiences generously donated by our sponsors.
The 2024 Visionary Award was also presented to Mr Peter Seah Lim Huat, our former Chairman of SingHealth (2009 to 2021) for his stellar achievements in the healthcare community at the event.
Since 2011, the EYEBALL event has played a significant role in turning initiatives into realised projects, enabling improved eye care provision, and advancing patient care in SNEC.
Speaking at the event, SNEC’s CEO Prof Aung Tin shared, “Worldwide, there are more than 43 million people who are blind, and 295 million who have visual impairments. In Southeast Asia alone, there are 6 million people who are blind and 28 million with visual impairments. Each day, our team members at SNEC-SERI work tirelessly to care for patients, develop cutting-edge research, and advance improvements in eye care. At SNEC, our purpose is to prevent blindness and improve sight.”
If you wish to make a donation to save sight, please visit www.giving.sg/shf-snec-fund
“Your generosity fuels our groundbreaking work at SNEC and SERI. With innovations like AI-driven eye screening and pioneering research into myopia and Alzheimer’s, we’re pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in eye care.”
Clin Assoc Prof Ho Ching Lin Chairperson of The Eye Ball 2024 organising committee
Growing Together: Celebrating 35 Years of Care
As we mark our 35th anniversary, we are proud to have grown with our patients. Hear from our patients on how SNEC has been part of their care and wellness.
SNEC Cares: Bringing Eye Care to Our Community
In conjunction with World Sight Day and Healthier East Coast Fair, SNEC together with Lions Savesight Centre (LSSC) and Bedok Community Centre organised free eye screenings for 400 residents at Bedok Community Centre on 6 October 2024.
“We have been going to SNEC for over a decade now. We have benefitted from many programmes organised and supported by SNEC over the years. For instance, they are RP Support Group, Low Vision Clinic, Eye Care Talks conducted by eye experts and up-to-date sharing about eye treatment from the research teams. The staff, doctors and nurses are very friendly, knowledgeable, and professional. They always display a lot of care and patience in attending to us when I accompanied my husband for doctor’s appointments. We have been seeing our Eye Specialist, Dr Ian Yeo, regularly. He is always cheerful, empathetic, and approachable. Special thanks to Dr Yeo for a flawless cataract operation on my husband’s eyes 4 years ago. We wish SNEC a very Happy 35th Anniversary Celebrations! May you continue to provide affordable and excellent eye care treatment for all patients.”
Mr Jimmy Chua & Ms Daniella Cher
Inspirational Patient & Caregiver 2024
World Sight Day 2024 is observed annually in October to raise global awareness of eye health. Our team of doctors provided essential eye care to those in need, focusing on age-related eye conditions for this community event. Mr Tan Kiat How, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Digital Development and Information and Ministry of National Development, and Member of Parliament for East Coast Group Representative Constituency (GRC) graced the event.
2024 marks SNEC’s 25th National Eye Care Day as well as the 14th year of partnership between SNEC and LSSC. This collaboration has benefited 6,000 seniors to date. Together, the two organisations have worked synergistically to expand their reach into the community and bring eye care services to those in need, thereby preventing blindness among seniors and improving their quality of life.
“I have been a SNEC patient for almost 20 years next year. I am impressed with the professionalism and dedication of the nurses and doctors here. Despite my difficult condition, they are always helpful and eager to educate me about care and treatment options. I am touched by the encouragement and kindness shown to me. The warm sincerity of the staff is reassuring and heartening. Improving vision enhances quality of life and restores self-esteem. The work of the healthcare team here is a great effort towards this cause of giving all patients better vision and hence an improved quality of life.”
Adrian Chan SNEC SPAN member & Inspirational Patient 2023
Minister Tan Kiat How shared on his social media post, “It was inspiring to see our dedicated team of doctors, nurses, and volunteers providing essential eye care for our community, especially for age-related conditions like cataract and glaucoma. I spoke about the importance of vision care for our East Coast residents. I also encouraged our seniors to stay active and engaged. Our community offers various activities like Tai Chi, Zumba, and even water aerobics. Let’s make the most of these activities and continue to make eye health accessible for all!”
Industry partners such as Topcon Medical Singapore Pte Ltd also supported the programme by loaning ophthalmic equipment.
SNEC doctors performed detailed slit lamp examinations to identify signs of cataracts, glaucoma, and other eye conditions.
Mr Tan Kiat How, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Digital Development and Information and Ministry of National Development, and Member of Parliament for East Coast Group Representative Constituency (GRC) graced the eye screening event.
SNEC Branches and Affiliated Clinics
CENTRAL
Singapore National Eye Centre 11 Third Hospital Avenue
Singapore 168751 Tel: 6227 7255
SNEC Community Eye Clinic
Level 3, Clinic 3C 11 Third Hospital Avenue
Singapore 168751 Tel: 6227 7255
SNEC Eye Clinic @ NHCS National Heart Centre
Singapore 5 Hospital Drive, Level 4, 4C
Singapore 169609 Tel: 6227 7255
SNEC Retina Centre
Diabetes & Metabolism Centre (DMC), Singapore General Hospital 17 Third Hospital Avenue #02-00
Singapore 168752 Tel: 6227 7255
KK Eye Centre KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital
100 Bukit Timah Road
Level 1, Children’s Tower
Singapore 229899
Tel: 6394 1930 / 6394 1931
NORTH EAST
SNEC Eye Clinic @ SKH
Sengkang General Hospital
Medical Centre, Level 8 110 Sengkang East Way
Singapore 544886
Tel: 6227 7255
SNEC Community Eye Clinic
Sengkang General Hospital
Medical Centre, Level 8 110 Sengkang East Way
Singapore 544886
Tel: 6227 7255
EAST
SNEC Eye Clinic @ Bedok
Blk 212 Bedok North Street 1 #03-147
Singapore 460212 Tel: 6227 7255
Myopia Centre
Blk 212 Bedok North Street 1 #03-147
Singapore 460212 (Located at SNEC Eye Clinic @ Bedok) Tel: 6227 7255
SNEC Eye Clinic @ CGH Changi General Hospital 2 Simei Street 3 Medical Centre, Level 1
Singapore 529889
Tel: 6850 3333