Breast Screening Singapore: 1 in 8 Women Diagnosed with Breast Cancer in Their Lifetime

The Importance of Early Detection

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Singapore, with an estimated 1 in 8 women diagnosed in their lifetime. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment and improving survival rates.

Breast Screening Guidelines

The Singapore Cancer Society (SCS) recommends the following breast screening guidelines:

• Women aged 40-49: Clinical breast examination (CBE) every two years.
• Women aged 50-69: Mammogram and CBE every two years.
• Women aged 70 and above: Screening every two to three years.

Mammography: The Gold Standard

Mammography is an X-ray imaging technique that remains the "gold standard" for breast cancer screening. It can detect tumors that are too small to be felt during a CBE.

Other Screening Technologies

In addition to mammography, other screening technologies include:

• Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create images of the breast.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): Uses a powerful magnet and radio waves to produce 3D images of the breast.

Breast Density and Screening

Breast density is a key factor in breast cancer screening. Women with dense breasts have a higher risk of developing cancer and may require more frequent screenings.

Benefits of Breast Screening

Regular breast screenings offer numerous benefits, including:

• Early detection of breast cancer, leading to more successful treatment and improved survival rates.
• Peace of mind knowing that the breasts are regularly checked for potential abnormalities.
• Reduced anxiety and worry about developing breast cancer.

Who Should Get Screened?

Almost all women over the age of 40 should consider breast screening. The decision to screen should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider who can assess individual risk factors and recommend the most appropriate screening strategy.

Factors Influencing Screening Decisions

Several factors can influence decisions about breast screening, including:

• Age: Women over 50 are at higher risk of breast cancer and benefit more from regular screenings.
• Family history: Women with a family history of breast cancer have a higher risk of developing it themselves.
• Personal health history: Women with certain health conditions, such as a genetic predisposition to breast cancer, may require more frequent screenings.
• Personal preferences: Some women may choose to have breast screenings more or less frequently than recommended.

Preparing for a Breast Screening

Before a breast screening, it's important to:

• Avoid wearing deodorant or antiperspirant, as these can interfere with mammogram results.
• If possible, schedule the screening during the first week after the menstrual period, when breasts are typically less tender.
• Inform the technologist about any relevant medical history or breast changes.

Results of a Breast Screening

Breast screening results can be categorized as:

Negative: No suspicious abnormalities were found.

Benign: Suspicious findings are identified, but they are not cancerous.

Suspicious: The findings suggest the possibility of breast cancer, requiring further evaluation with biopsy.

Positive: Breast cancer is diagnosed, and immediate medical intervention is necessary.

Managing Anxiety Related to Breast Screening

Breast screening can cause anxiety for some women. Here are some tips for managing anxiety:

• Talk to your healthcare provider about your concerns.
• Bring a friend or family member to the screening for support.
• Practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation.
• Remember that most breast screenings do not result in a breast cancer diagnosis.

Conclusion

Breast screening is an essential preventive health measure for women in Singapore. By following the recommended guidelines, women can increase their chances of early detection and successful treatment of breast cancer.

Tables

Table 1: Breast Cancer Incidence and Mortality Rates in Singapore

Table 2: Benefits and Risks of Mammography

Table 3: Breast Screening Recommendations for Women with Different Risk Profiles

Table 4: Common Questions and Concerns about Breast Screening