Breast Cancer Screening In Singapore

Breast cancer is the most common cause of cancer deaths for females in Singapore, accounting for 17.1% (2,208 deaths) of female cancer deaths. Early detection through breast cancer screening is crucial in improving survival rates and reducing the severity of treatment.

1. Mammography Breast Cancer Screening

Mammography is today the most reliable way of breast cancer screening in Singapore. A mammogram screening is a specialized medical imaging procedure that is designed to examine the breast tissue for any sign of abnormalities, particularly those that may indicate breast cancer.

Types Of Mammogram Screening

There are two main types of mammograms: 2D and 3D mammograms. They are typically done in the same way, but the difference between 2D and 3D mammograms lies in the way the breast images are captured and presented.

2D Mammogram (Conventional Mammogram)

In a 2D mammogram, two X-ray images are taken of each breast: the top-to-bottom view and the side view. These 2D or two-dimensional images provide a flat representation of the breast tissue.

3D Mammogram (Tomosynthesis)

3D mammography or also known as tomosynthesis, takes multiple X-ray images of the breast from various angles. These images are then reconstructed into a 3D image, providing a series of thin slices or “layers” of the breast tissue. It provides a more detailed and comprehensive view of the breast compared to 2D mammogram.

Mammography Is Recommended For:

According to the Guidelines For Health Screening by the Ministry of Health, below are the recommendations for breast cancer screening in Singapore:

Mammograms are widely available at public hospitals, polyclinics, and private clinics across Singapore.

Health Screening Packages With Mammogram Screening From Health365 Partners

If you are looking to undergo a comprehensive health screening, mammograms may be included in health screening packages for women. Health365 in partnership with trusted healthcare providers in Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand offers health screening packages that include mammogram screening. Some packages you may consider:

Consult Our Preferred Doctor On Your Health Screening

Dr Chua Boon Suan is the Senior Resident Physician at AsiaMedic Wellness Assessment Centre in Singapore. For many years of her career, she saw patients at the Health Screening and Wellness Centres at various hospitals and helps patients manage their chronic illnesses. If you are interested in doing a health screening at AsiaMedic, Dr Chua may be the doctor for you. Click the image below to learn more about her.

Mammogram Subsidies In Singapore

The Screen For Life by Singapore’s Health Promotion Board (HPB) grants eligible women ages 50 years old and above subsidised mammogram screenings at selected government polyclinics. 

2. Breast Ultrasound

Breast ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the breast tissue. It is often used as a supplementary tool to mammograms, especially in women with dense breast tissue where mammograms may not be as effective. Breast ultrasound is available at most hospitals and specialized imaging centers in Singapore.

Breast Ultrasound Vs. Mammogram: What Are The Differences?

The key difference between breast ultrasound vs mammogram lies in their approach and purpose in breast evaluation. Know more about it in our article.

3. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Breast MRI is a more sensitive imaging method that uses magnetic fields to produce detailed images of the breast. It is usually recommended for high-risk women, such as those with a family history of breast cancer or genetic predisposition (e.g., BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations). MRI is available at selected hospitals and specialized centers in Singapore.

4. DIY Breast Self-Examination

In addition to mammography where in situations where it is recommended, women are encouraged to also perform DIY breast self-examinations monthly. The Singapore Cancer Society suggests a simple 3-step procedure:

Step 1: Look

Put your hands on your hips and look out for changes in breast shape, skin surface and nipple abnormalities. Raise your arms above your head to look for changes (especially dimples) on the underside of your breast.

Step 2: Touch

Touch and feel your breast using your middle 3 fingers, moving in a circular motion from outer area towards the nipple. Gently squeeze your nipple to check for any discharge. Repeat this step for your other breast

Step 3: Check

Check for lumps by examining your entire breast from your armpit to your cleavage with different pressure. Repeat this step for your other breast. 

Contact Us To Schedule A Breast Cancer Screening In Singapore At A Private Healthcare Clinic

If you are below the age of 50, or prefer to get screened at a private healthcare facility in Singapore, you may contact us through the WhatsApp button below.

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