Breast cancer is one of those topics that feels overwhelming, but it’s one we can and must understand well. In Singapore, breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women — but early detection through screening has made a difference. We’ll walk through screening guidelines, what’s available, what can get in the way, and how to make the process less intimidating for yourself or someone you care about.
What Is Breast Cancer Screening and Why It Matters
Breast cancer screening refers to checking for cancer in women who don’t have symptoms. The goal? Catch it early, when treatment is more effective and outcomes are better. Mammograms, ultrasounds, and self-exams are usual tools. Studies show early detection lowers mortality and often makes treatments less invasive.
How Common Is Breast Cancer in Singapore
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Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in Singapore.
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Around 1 in 12 women will develop breast cancer by age 75.
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Despite awareness, screening uptake remains lower than ideal. As of a recent survey, only ~37.6% of women aged 50‑69 had undergone mammograms in the past two years.
Key Screening Guidelines in Singapore
Here are the officially recommended guidelines for women at average risk. If you have higher risk (family history, genetic predisposition, etc.), your doctor might suggest earlier or more frequent screening.
| Age Group | What is Recommended |
|---|---|
| 20‑39 years | Monthly breast self-examination (BSE) starting ~20. No routine mammograms unless high risk. |
| 40‑49 years | Discuss pros & cons with your doctor. Mammograms can be done annually if you choose to; denser breast tissue can make detection harder. |
| 50‑69 years | Routine mammogram every two years. This is the core age group for the national screening programs. |
What Screening Options Are Available
Mammogram
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The gold standard. Low-dose X‑ray of the breast that can detect lumps before you can feel them.
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Institutions like KK Women’s & Children’s Hospital, Singapore Cancer Society, and other public/private hospitals offer mammograms.
Ultrasound, MRI and 3D Tomosynthesis
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In some cases (e.g. dense breast tissue, younger women, or higher risk), ultrasound or MRI may complement mammograms.
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Tomosynthesis (3D mammography) is emerging as an option, helping reduce overlap that can hide abnormalities.
Breast Self‑Examination (BSE)
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Not a replacement for professional screening, but a useful monthly check. After ~20 years old. Helps you notice changes early.
National Programs & Subsidies
Singapore has several public programs to support breast cancer screening. These are crucial because cost, awareness, and access can be major barriers.
Screen For Life
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Run by Health Promotion Board (HPB), it offers breast cancer screening at subsidised rates for eligible women.
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Eligibility: Typically women aged 50+ for a mammogram every two years. Women 40‑49 can also access mammograms under certain cases.
