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Breast Cancer Screening

Breast Cancer Screening

Breast cancer is the commonest cancer affecting women in Singapore, with nearly 1 in 17 women affected in their lifetime. Being aware of your breast cancer risk, and undergoing regular screening for breast cancer is the safest way to guard against this disease.



What are the risk factors for breast cancer?

Age is a risk factor for cancer, with the majority of cancer cases detected in women above 40 years of age. Other risk factors for breast cancer include excessive body weight, smoking, sedentary lifestyle, alcohol use, hormonal therapy, early onset of menstruation <12 years old, or delayed menopause > 55 years old.

What are the common symptoms of breast cancer?

Common symptoms of breast cancer include a lump in the breast, nipple discharge or bleeding, inversion of the nipple and rashes or wrinkling of the skin overlying the breast. However, some women with breast cancer may have no symptoms at all, which is why screening is essential for early detection of breast cancer.

How can I get screened for breast cancer?

Screening for breast cancer can be done with a mammogram, which uses X-Rays to take images of the breast tissue.



What happens during a mammogram?

When you arrive, you will be asked to remove your top and bra, and will be given a wrap to change into. The radiographer will prepare you by positioning your breast between 2 plastic plates. Your breast tissue will need to be compressed between the plates for a few seconds in order to obtain the X-Ray images.

Photo credit: John Hopkins Medicine

When should I start screening for breast cancer?

Patients who have no significant family history may start undergoing mammograms after 40 years of age. Screening will start at an earlier age for patients who are considered high risk - those have first degree relatives with breast cancer, or have a history of BRCA gene mutation.


Photo credit: HealthHub

What else can I do to reduce my risk of breast cancer?

You can decrease your risk of breast cancer by maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding cigarettes and alcohol, exercising regularly and performing your own breast self-examination on a monthly basis. Consult your doctor to learn how to perform your own breast self-checks at home.

If you are keen to learn more about breast screening, contact our Advanced Medicine Medical Centre at 6708 7888 for an appointment. Our centre is open at 1 Biopolis Drive, Amnios #01-02 S138622.