Breast Screening Singapore: 3,000 Lives Saved Annually

What is Breast Screening?

Breast screening is a crucial medical procedure that involves using advanced imaging techniques to detect breast cancer at its earliest, most treatable stages. Early detection significantly improves the chances of successful treatment and survival.

Breast Cancer in Singapore: Alarming Statistics

According to the Singapore Cancer Registry, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Singapore, accounting for approximately 30% of all newly diagnosed female cancers. In 2020 alone, there were an estimated 3,258 new cases and 481 deaths due to breast cancer.

Benefits of Breast Screening

• Early Detection: By catching breast cancer in its early stages, screening increases the chances of successful treatment and survival.
• Reduced Mortality: Breast cancer mortality rates have declined significantly in countries with established screening programs.
• Peace of Mind: Regular screenings provide reassurance by ruling out breast cancer or detecting it at an early stage.

Types of Breast Screening Techniques

Mammography

• Uses X-rays to create images of the breasts.
• Recommended every 1-2 years for women aged 50-74.
• Can detect both dense and non-dense breast tissue.

Ultrasound

• Uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the breasts.
• Often used in conjunction with mammography to further evaluate suspicious areas.
• Particularly effective in detecting cancer in women with dense breast tissue.

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

• Uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the breasts.
• Recommended for women at high risk of breast cancer or with a family history of the disease.
• Can detect both masses and small tumors that may not be visible on mammography or ultrasound.

Breast Screening Recommendations

• Women aged 50-74 should undergo regular mammograms every 1-2 years.
• Women with a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors may need to start screening earlier or more frequently.
• Women who have already had breast cancer may need additional screening to monitor for recurrence.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping Mammograms: Even if you feel healthy, regular mammograms are essential for early detection.
• Delayed Diagnosis: If you notice any breast changes, don't ignore them. Report them to your doctor immediately.
• Overreliance on Self-Exams: While self-exams can help you become more familiar with your breasts, they cannot replace regular mammograms.
• Choosing the Wrong Screening Technique: Not all screening techniques are created equal. Discuss with your doctor the best option for you based on your age, breast density, and risk factors.

Pros and Cons of Breast Screening

Pros:

• Early detection improves treatment outcomes and survival.
• Reduces breast cancer mortality rates.
• Provides peace of mind.

Cons:

• Can cause false positives, leading to unnecessary anxiety or biopsies.
• Mammograms can be uncomfortable for some women.
• Not 100% accurate, so some cancers may still be missed.

Four Useful Tables

Table 1: Estimated Number of Women Screened and Breast Cancers Detected by Mammography in Singapore

Source: Singapore Cancer Registry

Table 2: Types of Breast Cancer Detected by Mammography in Singapore

Source: Singapore Cancer Registry

Table 3: Breast Cancer Survival Rates by Stage at Diagnosis in Singapore

Source: Singapore Cancer Registry

Table 4: Recommended Breast Screening Schedule

Note that these are general recommendations and may vary depending on individual circumstances. Consult with your doctor to determine the best screening schedule for you.