For Quek Jon Jon, a 43-year-old divemaster, life was defined by adventure and adrenaline-filled dive trips. That all changed in 2017 with a diagnosis of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the liver's bile ducts. Over time, this leads to cirrhosis, liver failure, and death if untreated.
By 2023, Quek needed a liver transplant. She suffered from relentless itching, extreme fatigue, and jaundice, eventually unable to work.
PBC affects about 18 per 100,000 people globally, with 80% of patients being women. Environmental triggers like nail polish and urinary tract infections are suspected but unproven.
Dr. Thinesh Lee Krishnamoorthy, senior consultant at Singapore General Hospital, notes that treatments like ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) can slow progression in 60-80% of patients. Newer drugs elafibranor and seladelpar offer hope for those who don't respond.
Quek received her liver transplant in September 2025 after three false alarms. Seven months later, she feels "reborn" and plans to return to diving. She urges women to prioritize their health, stating, "Without good health, there’s no need to talk about anything else."