Breast Cancer Screening: Why Early Detection Saves Lives
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Singapore, but advances in early detection mean that more women survive the disease than ever before. Regular breast cancer screening is a key strategy in cancer prevention and control, empowering women to take charge of their health and enabling doctors to detect cancer at its earliest—and most treatable—stages.
Why Breast Cancer Screening Matters
Early cancer detection significantly improves the chances of successful treatment and long-term survival. Tumours caught through screening are typically smaller and less likely to have spread, allowing for less aggressive treatments and better outcomes. Because breast cancer often causes no symptoms in its early stages, women who rely only on noticing lumps or changes in their breasts may miss the best window for intervention.
Mammogram Singapore: The Gold Standard
A mammogram is a special X-ray of the breasts that can detect tumours too small to be felt by hand. In Singapore, health authorities recommend that women aged 50 and above undergo a mammogram once every two years. Women aged 40–49 should discuss their individual risk with a doctor before starting screening, as some may benefit from earlier or more frequent checks, especially if there is a family history of breast or ovarian cancer.
What to Expect During a Screening
A typical mammogram takes about 15–20 minutes. Each breast is positioned on the X-ray machine and briefly compressed for clear imaging—this may cause mild discomfort, but the procedure is quick and safe. Experienced radiographers ensure comfort and privacy throughout the process, and results are generally available within a few weeks.
Who Should Get Screened?
- All women aged 50 and above, regardless of family history, are encouraged to get regular mammograms.
- Women aged 40–49 should consult a healthcare provider to assess personal risk and tailor a screening schedule.
- Those with a significant family history or specific genetic risks (like BRCA mutations) may benefit from starting earlier or undergoing additional screening tests as advised by their doctor.
How Breast Cancer Screening Prevents Cancer Deaths
Screening can detect early-stage cancers that are highly curable. Studies consistently show that countries with strong screening programmes see a substantial drop in breast cancer mortality rates. In Singapore, the nationwide BreastScreen Singapore programme provides subsidised mammograms, helping to make this life-saving test accessible for all women.
Tips for Women’s Health Checkups and Prevention
- Mark your calendar and schedule mammograms as part of your routine checkups.
- Follow medical advice about breast self-awareness, but don’t rely on self-exams as your only screening tool.
- Adopt a healthy lifestyle: maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, limit alcohol, and attend regular doctor visits.
- If you receive an abnormal mammogram result, don’t panic—most follow-up tests rule out cancer, but timely further checks are crucial.
Conclusion
Breast cancer screening is a simple, proven step that saves lives. By making regular mammograms a priority, women in Singapore take a proactive role in cancer prevention and the protection of their long-term health. Encourage family and friends to prioritise screening too, and together help reduce the burden of breast cancer in our community. Early detection offers the best chance for effective treatment, recovery, and peace of mind
Disclaimer: The content for this article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your oncologist with any questions regarding a medical condition. Do not disregard medical advice or delay seeking it based on information from this site.