Breast Cancer Screening in Singapore: Screening & Early Detection

What is Breast Cancer Screening?

Breast cancer screening involves regular examinations and tests to detect breast cancer at an early stage, even before symptoms appear. Early detection of breast cancer is crucial for successful treatment and improved patient outcomes.

Importance of Breast Cancer Screening in Singapore

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Singapore, accounting for approximately 20% of all new cancer cases. Early detection through regular screening has significantly contributed to the reduction of breast cancer mortality rates in Singapore.

According to the Singapore Cancer Society, the 5-year survival rate for breast cancer patients diagnosed at an early stage is over 90%, compared to around 10% for patients diagnosed at an advanced stage.

Why Breast Cancer Screening Matters

• Breast cancer screening can identify breast cancer at its earliest and most treatable stages.
• Early treatment options are less invasive and have higher success rates.
• Screening can provide peace of mind and reduce anxiety about developing breast cancer.
• Regular screening can help establish a baseline for breast tissue, making it easier to detect any changes or abnormalities later.

Types of Breast Cancer Screening Tests

There are two main types of breast cancer screening tests available in Singapore:

1. Mammogram

A mammogram is an X-ray imaging test that takes pictures of the breast tissue to detect any abnormalities or masses. Mammograms can identify small tumors that are too small to be felt during a physical examination.

2. Clinical Breast Examination (CBE)

A CBE is a physical examination performed by a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or nurse, to check for any lumps, changes in breast size or shape, or other abnormalities in the breasts.

When to Start Breast Cancer Screening?

The recommended age to start breast cancer screening varies depending on individual risk factors and family history. Generally, the Singapore Cancer Society recommends that women with an average risk of breast cancer begin screening at the age of 40.

Women with a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors, such as a BRCA gene mutation, may need to start screening earlier.

How Often Should I Get Screened?

For women with an average risk of breast cancer, the Singapore Cancer Society recommends the following screening schedule:

• Mammogram: Every 2 years between the ages of 40-50
• Mammogram and CBE: Annually after the age of 50

Women with a higher risk of breast cancer may need to be screened more frequently, as determined by their doctor.

Benefits of Breast Cancer Screening

Regular breast cancer screening offers several benefits, including:

• Early detection: Identifying breast cancer at an early stage, when treatment options are more effective and less invasive.
• Reduced mortality: Screening has significantly contributed to reducing breast cancer mortality rates in Singapore.
• Improved treatment outcomes: Early detection allows for more effective treatment, leading to better patient outcomes and quality of life.
• Peace of mind: Regular screening can provide peace of mind and reduce anxiety about developing breast cancer.

Pain Points Associated with Breast Cancer Screening

While breast cancer screening offers significant benefits, there are potential pain points and concerns to consider:

• Discomfort: Mammograms can be uncomfortable for some women, particularly those with large or dense breasts.
• False positives: Screening tests may produce false-positive results, leading to unnecessary anxiety and follow-up procedures.
• Radiation exposure: Mammograms involve low levels of radiation exposure.
• Cost: Breast cancer screening tests can be expensive, especially for those without insurance coverage.

Motivations for Breast Cancer Screening

Understanding the motivations for breast cancer screening can encourage women to prioritize their health and participate in regular screening:

• Protecting your health: Screening helps protect your health by detecting breast cancer at an early stage.
• Reducing anxiety: Regular screening can reduce anxiety about developing breast cancer.
• Being proactive: Taking control of your health and participating in screening empowers you and reduces the uncertainty associated with breast cancer.
• Supporting research: Your participation in screening contributes to ongoing research and helps improve breast cancer detection and treatment methods.

FAQs About Breast Cancer Screening in Singapore

1. What are the risks of breast cancer screening?
- Mammograms involve low levels of radiation exposure.
- False-positive results can lead to unnecessary anxiety and follow-up procedures.

2. Is breast cancer screening painful?
- Mammograms can be uncomfortable for some women, particularly those with large or dense breasts.

3. How much does breast cancer screening cost?
- Screening tests can be expensive, especially for those without insurance coverage.

4. How often should I get screened?
- For women with an average risk of breast cancer, the Singapore Cancer Society recommends a mammogram every 2 years between the ages of 40-50, and annually after the age of 50.

5. What if I find a lump in my breast?
- If you find a lump in your breast, it is important to consult a doctor immediately for further evaluation.

6. What are the limitations of breast cancer screening?
- Screening tests are not 100% accurate and may miss some cancers.