Changi General Hospital taps advanced spectrometry, AI for hypertension treatment

It has started clinical tests to diagnose patients with primary aldosteronism hypertension.

Changi General Hospital (CGH) began clinical tests to identify patients with primary aldosteronism, a widespread but lesser-known form of hypertension.

Tests include the application of liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry, powered by artificial intelligence (AI), to accurately measure for hormones aldosterone and renin. The test was launched in February 2023.

Through the Shimadzu-CGH Clinomics Centre (SC³), CGH held these clinical services as a response to the rise of high blood pressure in Singapore. With a reduced waiting time, improved healthcare delivery and enhanced patient outcomes, it has implemented over 1,000 clinical tests for hypertension patients.

Testing at the SC³ allowed patients to receive precise medication through their dietary habits. Patients with primary aldosteronism also received improvement in blood pressure, heart functions and quality of life through laparoscopic/keyhole surgery.

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A report from the Ministry of Health indicated that one out of three adult Singaporeans experienced hypertension over the last decade. About 5% of patients with hypertension have primary aldosteronism, and are at high risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.

High salt intake is said to be the main contributor to hypertension for Singaporeans, as well as abnormal growth in their adrenal glands.