Financial strain grips Singapore as regional well-being trails global levels – Report
Singapore residents report steady vitality and overall well-being compared to last year, yet financial pressure continues to erode their quality of life. Findings from the Cigna Healthcare International Health Study 2025, which surveyed more than 11,000 people across 13 markets, show that physical, mental and financial well-being remain top priorities in Singapore. Financial well-being ranks lowest, with 39% of respondents rating their financial health as fair or poor. Cigna Healthcare’s Raymond Ng said that a resilient society depends on strong health and vitality and noted that persistent economic uncertainty is adding strain on daily life.
Across Asia Pacific, only 28% of respondents rate their overall well-being as excellent or very good compared with 41 percent globally. Financial concerns rank higher in importance for the region than in other parts of the world. Cigna Healthcare executive Robert Peat said ongoing growth in Asia Pacific requires stronger support systems that recognize the relationship between healthy populations and economic strength.
In Singapore, stress remains widespread with 79% of respondents feeling pressure from the rising cost of living, uncertainty about the future and personal finances. Disrupted sleep is the most common effect, reported by nearly half of those experiencing stress. Therapy remains rarely used despite almost half of respondents acknowledging the impact of poor mental health. Most say they did not seek counselling in the past year, with many believing they did not need it.
Exercise habits, however, remain comparatively strong; 26% rate their routines as excellent or very good and two-thirds say regular exercise is their main method of weight management, higher than the regional average. Only a small fraction relies on medication.
Sentiment toward AI in healthcare is cautiously positive. Nearly half of Singapore respondents expect AI to shorten wait times within three years, a prospect that could matter significantly since people in Singapore are more likely than regional peers to delay care due to concerns about waiting. Many also foresee reduced human interaction in clinical settings, suggesting the need for careful alignment between technology and personal care.
Category: Community
