Breast Cancer Screening

Introduction

What is Breast Cancer?

The most common type of cancer among women in Singapore is breast cancer. In the last thirty years, there has been a marked increase in the number of women diagnosed with breast cancer worldwide. 70% are early breast cancer cases. Research has shown that one in every twenty women are diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetimes.

Did you know?

Survival rates increase to nearly 90% when cases are detected and treated at an early stage

This is why our doctors recommend that women check their breasts regularly or go for breast cancer screening regularly to try to detect any changes. They also recommend scheduling an appointment even if you have the slightest concern to detect early breast cancer.

Related: Cancer Screening

Signs & Symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of breast cancer in Singapore?

Unfortunately, the earliest stage of breast cancer offers no symptoms, so early detection can be pretty hard. In Singapore, you need to be screened via a mammogram to detect cancer. As breast cancer progresses, women can experience some of the following symptoms:

A painless palpable lump
A persistent rash around the nipple
Unusual bleeding from the nipple
Nipple discharge
The skin of the breast begins to swell, pucker, or harden.
The nipple retracts
Breast pain, but this is not a reliable indicator of breast cancer

The underlying causes of breast cancer remain a complex combination of environmental and genetic factors

Causes

What causes breast cancer?

As a woman gets older, she is at greater chance of breast cancer, some of the common risk factors include:

A family history of ovarian or breast cancer
A history of ovarian cancer
A personal history of breast diseases or breast cancer
Menstruation started early
Having your first child after the age of 40
Never having children or having a less than average amount
If you have taken hormone replacement therapy
Obesity

Treatment

How can Breast Cancer be treated in Singapore?

A comprehensive breast screening will involve mammogram screening and blood tests, physical examinations and scans such as ultrasound. During your consultation with the doctor, these options will be discussed with you to see which best suits your needs.

FAQ

What is the difference between a Mammogram Screening and a Breast Ultrasound in Singapore?

A mammogram is an x-ray of the breasts, the radiographer places your breast between 2 plates and compresses it to capture an accurate and unobstructed view of the breast.

An ultrasound is formed by using high-frequency waves of sound to create an image of the inside of your breast, this will indicate the presence of any abnormal lumps for women under the age of 40. For women over the age of 40, an ultrasound may not be as effective on their dense breast tissue and a mammogram is recommended.

Would the risk of Breast Cancer be greater if I had done Breast enhancement surgery before?

Breast enhancement surgery like breast implants do not cause breast cancer. However, it is worth noting that breast implants are associated with a kind of cancer involving your lymphatic system known as anaplastic large-cell lymphoma (ACLC). It is postulated that the kind of implants used may trigger the immune response that attributes to cancer.

Is Breast Cancer Screening painful?

Different women experience varying levels of discomfort, but it’s more common in women with firm and dense fibrocystic breasts.

To minimise any pain, schedule a mammogram or screening a week after your menstrual period or take a painkiller before the mammogram.

I don't have a family history of Breast Cancer. Does this mean I'm safe?

Many think of this cancer as an inherited disease. However, it is believed only 5-10% of this cancer is hereditary. Thus, it is highly encouraged to go for a screening once every two years.

Should I be concerned on the radiation from the mammogram?

The radiation that comes with a mammogram screening process is extremely low and the risk of harm is not much to be worried about.

I don't notice any symptoms. Should I still go for Breast Cancer Screening?

A mammogram is currently the most reliable way to screen for breast cancer. It can detect cancerous lumps even before they can be felt through a breast self examination by hand.

What should I do before a Mammogram?

Do not use any perfumes, powders, deodorants, or sprays for over a day in the region of your breasts.
Always inform the radiographer if you are pregnant.
There is no need to fast before the screening.
Always bring your medical records; this will allow our doctors to get a clearer picture of your medical history; this will be important when choosing any continuity of care.
To minimise discomfort, you may take painkillers before the procedure.

Cancer Health Screening Women's Health