Chores for Kids

Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder

By Dr. Fauziah Zainal Abidin 
Consultant Paediatrician with special interest in Developmental Paediatrics
Gleneagles Kota Kinabalu Hospital 088-518 888


“Ahmad’s mother has been concerned about him for sometime now. At three years of age, he has not started talking like the rest of his siblings. He has not even called her “mama” and sometimes she was not even sure whether he can hear well. He hardly looked at her or responded to her calls. He would be quite happy being on his own rather than playing with his siblings.

He somehow finds watching the wheels of a moving car or the turning of a fan more fascinating than anything else. She is also concerned with his feeds. He does not like anything else with his rice and efforts to feed him the fried chicken or meatballs have resulted in almost battlefield like scenes and a
meltdown for Ahmad. She had talked to her husband and her own mother about her concerns but she would be reassured that he would “grow out of it” as one of her cousin’s did before.”

What is Autistic Spectrum Disorder?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition which affects an individual in the areas of communication, social interactions and having restricted, repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests or activity. This affects the individuals ability to interact with others and they often find the world to be a confusing place as they have difficulty adjusting and adapting to new and unfamiliar people and surroundings.

They may also have sensitivity issues, either being too sensitive or less sensitive in any of the five senses, hence the preference for or avoidance of certain foods, noises, clothing or even certain lights. Every individual with ASD is also different. The term itself reflects that no two people with ASD are alike, even though they all have difficulties in communication and socialisation, each will have a unique combination of character and so may seem quite different.

ASD affects around one in every 100 people and is diagnosed 4 to 5 times more common in boys than in girls. Although it is a life long condition and there is no cure, early intervention can have a tremendous results in helping those affected to live to their full potential.


What are the causes?

There is no known direct cause of Autism. Much research is being done to try to find out more of the cause but at this point it is believed to result from changes in the brain development which may be caused by a combination of genetic factors and environment. ASD is known to run in families but no specific genes have been determined so far. ASD is not caused by parenting or social circumstances. Various reputed research has been done to prove than ASD is NOT cause by vaccines or other medical treatments.

Assessments and diagnosis

Whilst receiving a diagnosis can be distressing or a heartbreak for most families, sometimes it can come as a relief to all their questions and worries before. For the young children, diagnosis leads to acceptance and empowerment for their parents to seek assistance and can dramatically improve their outcome. There are no laboratory or imaging tests that diagnose Autism. Diagnosis are made based on the ability of the individual in the main area of concern ie. social and communication and behavioural patterns.

For older children and adults, a diagnosis can help to explain why they feel different and allow them to access support and assistance to improve their quality of life. Developmental Paediatricians, Psychiatrist, Clinical Psychologist are trained to diagnosed individuals through a series of clinical evaluation and assessments.

Experts disagree about the true increase in ASD prevalence. More awareness about ASD leads to parents become more likely to take their children to be diagnosed and more doctors now are able to properly diagnosed ASD.

Living with ASD

ASD causes individuals to struggle to understand and relate to other people and environments. This can often result in extreme behaviour, such as tantrums in a young child or rudeness in older individuals. It is the only way they can cope with their stresses and feelings of anxiety. Parents on the other hand are often perceived as bad parents who are unable to control their children from behaving badly.

Adults with ASD also struggle with social situation and ‘small talk” They may appear rude, overly critical and awkward. They will have difficulty in forming relationships and maintaining friendships. Parents may feel unprepared or doubtful of their ability to provide the necessary care and education.

On a positive note, there are many treatment options, social services and programmes that can help. The problem is usually how to get access to them. Meeting with a healthcare provider or an educator can be a good source of information. Talking to an Autism Support group can help find local resources.

Meeting with a Paediatrician can help evaluate a child’s development and rule out other problems that may be helped and subsequently referred to the other experts who will develop an intervention plan for the child. Going through the transition to adulthood should be dealt with together with family members, healthcare service providers and other professionals.

Communications and reports should be kept well. Some adults with ASD are able to achieve independence to a certain extent thus self-advocay is an important aspect for individuals and family members with ASD. Through Self advocay, they may take on more responsibility for their education, employment, health care in their own community and else where.


For more information about this topic, please feel free to contact Gleneagles Kota Kinabalu Hospital at 088-518 888 

Allen Solomon on spending priceless time with his daughter Alana

MIMMA Mixed Martial Arts Lightweight Champion 2013 Allen Solomon on spending priceless time with his daughter Alana.

Interview by Stella Matilda | Photo by Vosper Photography 


Allen Solomon, 33, Degree in Architecture but followed his passion in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) for the past 3 years.

It all started when his dad enrolled him for a Taek Kwan-Do training when he was only 6 years old. Soon he diversified his skills into Karate at 12, then Fencing at 15, and then Brazilian Ju-Jitsu (BJJ) at 23.

His wife, Caroline Anthony whom he met at a martial arts tournament share the same interest as him. She has a black belt in Taek Kwan-Do and blue belt in BJJ. “At home, she is my red belt”, says Allen.

He plans to continue fighting for another 3 yrs, but not sure if he wants Alana to see him fight in cage.  “They say your subconscious is a product of your surroundings, but my earliest memories in life is about 2-3 yrs old. So our job as parents is to build memories for our kids. i take that job seriously”, says Allen 



How does it feel to be a daddy for the first time?

My mindset went from thinking about what I’m going do in the next 5 minutes to what I’m going do in the next 10 years. I had a hair cut (because of Alana). Now, I am now looking for places to buy a shotgun! (giggles)

What is the best thing about being a dad?

I find that I have better focus now, and that time is very very limited. So I learn to maximize everything I do so I can spend more time with those chipmunk cheeks on my daughter. Time spent with her is priceless. She is very sharing. Always giving me a bite of her food. I melt everytime.

What is the hardest?

I think I worry too much for no good reason. I’m devolving into a very traditional dad. I plan to change that and try to be that cool dad that all my friends had growing up.

What is the funniest thing ever happened to you as a dad?

My daughter seems to be a natural at trolling me. Everytime she sees a photo of a monkey, she goes “papa”- its her first words. I think I’m making her spend too much time with me in the dojo.

Do you think your daughter loves MMA or are you trying to get her into MMA?

I’m am definitely NOT letting her do MMA. Her mom seems to have other ideas. I don't wanna get anxiety attacks. I dont know, I love her, she can do whatever she wants. But I’m gonna have the last say :P

Would you like more children?

I’m looking at my wife right now, raising my eyebrows and coyly saying yessssss.

Tell us a little bit about your childhood.

(Laughs out loud) I was born in Scotland, raised in Sabah, and studied in Australia. I’m very confused and lost as a kid.

What are your hopes and dreams for your daughter?

Like every other parent, I wish her to find success and elevate herself higher that what her predecessors have achieved. The next generation will always do better. I plan to compound that effect.


Featured Daddy | Issue No.2 | Page 62

Paediatric Forum at Gleneagles Kota Kinabalu Hospital

In collaboration with JCI Tanjung Aru, Gleneagles Kota Kinabalu will be having the first Paediatric Forum on the 20th of February 2016 at ‪#‎GleneaglesKK‬ starting from 1PM.

Come and join us for a day of educational and informative talks given by our experienced speakers. You could learn something new and valuable for your child, granchild, nieces or nephews. Entrance is free and refreshments will be provided.

Date: 20th February 2016

Time: 1pm

Venue: Gleneagles Kota Kinabalu Hospital

For more info about this program, call us at 088-518880, 088-518882 or 088-518888!

Sex and Pregnancy

By Dr. Alagammai Ramanathan | Consultant Obstetric & Gynaecologist
Gleneagles Kota Kinabalu Hospital (Tel: 088-518 888)

Sex is considered a taboo subject especially for Asian community. Both women and men are just too shy to bring the subject up for discussion and hence do not get accurate information on this subject be it.

Most women wait at least six to eight weeks after giving birth to have sex again, according to a new study published in BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. It may also be the absolute last thing in your mind especially while you are dealing with nausea and vomiting and later on with the baby, breast feeding and diaper changings through the night.

Most women avoid sex during pregnancy for the fear of losing the baby. It is good to take time and
discuss it with your partner as intimacy is an important part in life. Other women, however, may crave sex in pregnancy. And men, too, are split into different groups regarding sex during pregnancy. Some men may find nothing sexier than a pregnant woman, but other men may be too afraid of hurting the baby. But desire aside, is sex during pregnancy even safe?

Can I have sex during pregnancy?

A lot of times the male partners are more frightened to have sex than the women. In most cases, sex is 100% safe for mom and baby. During the first trimester most women needs to deal with nausea, vomiting and hormonal changes to the body so sex may be the last thing in your mind. During the second trimester women most feel better, there is more lubrication, and have engorgement in the genital area and the tummy is not so rounded yet. This is usually the best time.

As for third trimester the stomach grows and it becomes more tiring, sex may seem less attractive- not to mention physically difficult during the final weeks of pregnancy. There are some exceptions, which your gyny doctor will warn you about. Among other issues is, if you have an incompetent (or weakened) cervix, unexplained bleeding, diagnosed with placenta previa, frequent premature contractions with no known cause or rupture of the amniotic membranes. The best will be to discuss with your gyny doctor along with your partner. It is important for both partners to be there during this session.

Sex can hurt the baby?

Babies are well cushioned. Below the skin is our fat layer, followed by muscles, thick uterine muscles, amniotic fluid only then the baby. As there is water surrounding the baby, it is well cushioned and most movements do not harm the baby. So go ahead! babies are very safe inside the womb and the jolt will not affect the baby.

Can infection occur due to sex?

Well from below the cervix is closed and it has a mucous plug to seal and hence infection does not enter into the cavity. So it is safe. Same goes for swimming, it is ok to swim during pregnancy, the water does not enter the vagina and into the uterus and harm the baby, so there is no need to change your lifestyle. In fact swimming is a good form for exercise during pregnancy.

Can I develop contractions during sex and will that lead to delivery prematurely?

If you start cramping after sex, don’t jump. An hour or two of mild cramps isn’t unusual because both orgasm and the prostaglandins in semen can cause uterine contractions. Increased blood flow and congestion makes blood vessels more fragile on the cervix surface, and they may bleed a bit if
your partner’s penis rubs against the cervix.

However, heavy bleeding warrants call to your gyny because the placenta could be breaking away from the uterus and other causes needs to be looked into for example a cervical growth. But don’t worry - it’s all unlikely to happen. Having an orgasm causes the release of prostaglandins, which can theoretically cause contractions, unfortunately never been completely validated in scientific studies. Does it work? Well...if you’re ready to deliver, a little sex might jump-start the process.

Sexual positions during pregnancy.

This is by far the most difficult question to answer. Well usually what is good and comfortable for the baby is good and comfortable for you. The traditional man-on-top position is more uncomfortable for pregnant women and in the 3rd trimester it is not advisable for women to be flat on the back as the pregnancy can compress the blood vessels and cause a little fall in the blood pressure.

If possible avoid oral sex as bowing air into the vagina may predispose to air embolism though it is very rare.

You can have satisfying sex when pregnancy. You will need to find the most comfortable position, it is the time to explore and experiment together. Communication and openness are the keys to maintaining or improving sexual satisfaction during your pregnancy.

Riverson@Sembulan Block A-1, 
Lorong Riverson@Sembulan, 
88100 Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Tel: 088-518 888 
Website: www.gleneagleskk.com.my
Facebook: Gleneagles Kota Kinabalu
EMERGENCY 088-518 911

Pregnant Women Should Not Travel to These Countries

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have issued an alert for travel to countries and regions experiencing Zika virus outbreaks.

Some of these countries include Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, Guatemala, Puerto Rico, Venezuela, Thailand and the Philippines. (View the full list here.)

Recent reports from Brazil indicate that the virus, which is spread to humans through mosquito bites, is responsible for a birth defect that causes babies to have abnormally small heads. Expectant mothers infected with Zika virus while pregnant have given birth to infants with microcephaly, a condition defined by abnormal cerebrums and improperly developed brains, WSBTV reports.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

The CDC advises  all travelers to countries where the virus is ongoing to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites: wearing long sleeves and pants, using insect repellent, and sleeping under mosquito nets. The organization also recommends the following precautions specifically for pregnant women:

Consider postponing travel to the areas where Zika virus transmission is ongoing. Pregnant women who do travel to one of these areas should talk to their doctor or other healthcare provider first and strictly follow steps to avoid mosquito bites during the trip. Women trying to become pregnant, or who are thinking about becoming pregnant should consult with their healthcare provider before traveling to these areas.

The Zika virus has been linked to one U.S. case of the birth defect, according to the Hawaii State Department of Health. At this time, there is no medication to prevent or treat Zika.

Areas with Zika, click HERE.

For more information regarding this topic, please visit Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website HERE.

Jesselton Medical Centre “A One-Stop” Tertiary Healthcare

Parents Avenue Magazine | Issue No.2 | January - March 2016 | Featured Healthcare

Jesselton Medical Centre  (JMC) is “A One-Stop” tertiary healthcare centre of International Standards, one of the top private healthcare providers located in the heart of Kolombong’s prominent industrial corridor, in the newly developed town, Metro Town of Kota Kinabalu.

JMC was established to be a centre of excellence in medical care to cater for the needs of the people of Sabah. JMC was designed and constructed over a period of three years. Meticulous attention was paid to the design and construction to ensure the safety and comfort of patients. Their attention to detail was also extended to the recruitment of our Resident Consultants, the majority of whom are recognised locally, nationally and even internationally. 

JMC’s philosophy is to provide a caring environment where patients are treated with dignity by dedicated professional staff. They are well aware that falling ill is a fact of life which results in patient, families suffering both emotional and financial losses. Their of these patients in the shortest possible time and they are able to do this as they have invested in the latest medical equipment and facilities.

Radiology & Imaging Services | 1.5 Tesla MRI

JMC has the capacity of 74 beds consisting of single and double bedded rooms, an Intensive Care Unit, Maternity Suite, Nursery bays and Phototherapy bays for the newborns. Furthermore, JMC has invested heavily in equipment and human resources. As an example they have the only Infectious Disease Specialist, the only Emergency Specialist in the private sector in Sabah and the only 640 slice CT scanner in this part of the region.

They also have self-contained isolation facilities in the hospital. In order to ensure that patients undergoing major surgery have the best chances of recovery, two of their major operating theatres are equipped with guided air flow systems which are the latest technology to ensure the chances of infection have been reduced to the lowest levels possible. They are the only private hospital in Sabah to have this.

Operating Theatre

Despite all of the advanced equipment that JMC has invested in, they are committed to provide affordable private health care for the people. In addition, their Medical Team is composed of a highly trained professional team of highly skilled specialists with significant experience with both outpatients & inpatients.

JMC ambitiously has a strong focus on preventive healthcare and a tenacious commitment to nurture excellence and expertise in healthcare and to make their vision of a future where the people of Sabah are healthy into reality. JMC is emerging as the preferred healthcare destination.

JMC synergize with government hospitals, general practitioners and other health institutions to ensure its patients get the latest treatment. JMC is also geared to provide medical treatment for medi-tourists. It has an ideal environment for tourists with its sister building –Avangio Hotel- a 5-stars rated hotel that was built adjacent to JMC. In addition, JMC is in the midst of registering itself with the Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) to serve and care for tourists who want to come both for medical treatment and to see Sabah’s natural attractions.

24 Hours Emergency Clinic & Ambulance Services

JMC is more than just a facility with the latest equipment; it also takes pride in having experienced and well-trained personnel at all levels. For patients, modern equipment together with highly trained and capable professionals to give an excellent personalised services right from the beginning and more importantly, proper diagnosis and treatment. 

LIST OF JMC MEDICAL FACILITIES:
1) 640 slice Toshiba CT Scanner
2) 1.5 tesla Toshiba MRI scanner
3) Phillips Epic 7 4D Echocardiogram
4) Phillips Cardiac Monitoring System
- Hospital wide integrated system
- Web enabled for remote viewing
- Enables doctors to monitor patients from home
5) Hologic Digital Mammogram
- First in the private sector in Sabah
6) Dedicated Qualified Emergency Doctor
7) Infectious Diseases Specialist
- Responsible for infection control
8) Bausch & Lomb Stellaris
- With fully integrated laser
- Only vitreoretinal surgical system that comes
with a dual light source
- Smallest incisions which is less than 2mm for
both retinal and cataract surgeries
9) Barco Lucie Point of Care Terminals
10) 37 Degrees Hospital Information System
- First in Malaysia
- Provides cross platform patient information
- Paperless Patient Information
- Able to view all patient data and X-rays
11) Operating Theatre Guided airflow system
- Only two in the private sector in East Malaysia
- Minimises risk of infection during surgery
12) Cytori Celution Stem Cell Therapy
- Prepare your own stem cells for treatment
- Treatment proven by clinical trials
13) Screening of all new born babies hearing
- Done by qualified PhD Audiologist
14) Screening of all new born babies for jaundice
- Transcutaneous bilirubin measurement
- Done without need for blood or needles
15) Genetic Screening
- Collaboration with Quantum Laboratories and AsiaGenomics

Jesselton Medical Centre, “An Institution of Trust and Quality”.


Should you need more information about Jesselton Medical Centre services and facilities, please feel free to contact them.

Jesselton Medical Centre Sdn Bhd
Jalan Metro 2, Metro Town, Off Jalan Lintas,
88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
General Line : +60 88- 366 333
Fax : +60 88- 388 896
Website : www.jmc.my
Email : customerservice@jmc.my

JESSELTON MEDICAL CENTRE EMERGENCY (24 HOURS)
+6088 - 366 399