Blood tests for cancer in Singapore are common. They may be used for cancer screening or to aid in diagnosis. Other additional tests may often be required if your doctor is concerned that you may have cancer.
Blood Testing For Cancer
Blood samples taken from patients are brought to a lab, where technicians will examine for indications of malignancy. The samples could reveal the cancer cells themselves when examined under a microscope. Additional blood tests may reveal proteins or other cancer-produced compounds. Blood testing may also show your doctor how well-functioning your organs are.
Most blood tests are however not utilised by themselves to identify cancer. While they may offer signs that help your medical team determine the diagnosis, biopsies using a sample of cells from the body, or other tests are frequently required for many cancer types.
How Cancer Is Detected Via Blood Tests
There are several ways in which cancer may be detected using blood tests. These include:
Counting the blood cells. Complete Blood Count (CBC) test measures the amount of each type of blood cell (red and white blood cells, Hemoglobin, Hematocrit, and Platelets) in the blood sample. This test can detect cancers of the blood.
Testing for blood proteins. Blood can be tested to look for proteins in the blood that are produced by the body’s immune system. Such a test helps to diagnose multiple myeloma.
Testing for chemicals produced by cancer cells. Cancer cells produces certain chemicals. Tumour marker tests look for such chemicals.
Testing for cancer cells. Cancer cells might be in the blood if the cancer is spreading to other parts of the body. Circulating tumor cell tests detect such cells in the blood. These are usually used after an initial cancer diagnosis, though not every cancer patient will require such a test. These may be used for certain cancers – including breast, colon and prostate cancer.
Testing for cancer cells DNA. Cells (both healthy ones and cancerous ones) break apart as they die. DNA from cancer cells can enter the blood stream as a result. Certain blood tests for cancer can detect such DNA.
Cancer Marker Blood Tests In Singapore
You should consult your doctor if you wish to learn more about taking cancer marker tests. The doctor will be able to advise you on which tumour marker tests may be suitable for you, how frequently you should take these tests, and what you can expect the tests to reveal.
Some packages for health screening that include cancer marker tests in Singapore include:
- Alpha Digestive and Liver Centre (GastroClear testing for stomach cancer) – Our partner healthcare provider. Contact us for appointment.
- Asiamedic– Our partner healthcare provider. Contact us for appointment.
- Asia HealthPartners – Our partner healthcare provider. Contact us for appointment.
- Lifescan Medical – Our partner healthcare provider. Contact us for appointment.
- Minmed Group – Our partner healthcare provider. Contact us for appointment.
- Parkway Cancer Centre (enquire for customised cancer screening).
- Parkway Shenton.
- Raffles Medical Group.
Further Reading On Cancer Screening And Diagnostics
Protect against cancer, cardiovascular disease, and other chronic diseases with regular health screening. Compare and shop for health screenings from Singapore and regional healthcare providers at a single convenient platform - shop.health365.sg
This article is informative only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.