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.