Breast cancer is a condition where the cells in the breast mutate and grow uncontrollably, forming a tumour. While it predominantly affects women and individuals assigned female at birth (AFAB) aged 50 and above, it can also occur in men, individuals assigned male at birth (AMAB), and younger women.
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Breast Cancer Singapore Statistics
According to the Singapore Cancer Registry Annual Report 2021, breast cancer (29.7% of cancer in females) remains the most common cancer among women in Singapore. It is also the most common cause of cancer deaths among females in Singapore, accounting for 17.3% of cancer deaths in females.
What Is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer develops when the cells in the breast undergo abnormal changes, leading to the formation of a tumour. These tumours can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Malignant tumours have the potential to invade surrounding tissues and spread to other parts of the body through the lymphatic system or bloodstream.
There are several types of breast cancer, including:
- Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS): A non-invasive cancer confined to the milk ducts.
- Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC): The most common type, which begins in the milk ducts and spreads to surrounding tissue.
- Triple-negative breast cancer: A more aggressive form that lacks certain hormone receptors, making it harder to treat.
Symptoms Of Breast Cancer
During the early stages, breast cancer may have no symptoms at all. However, once the cancer becomes more advanced, the following symptoms of breast cancer may be noticed:
- A persistent lump or thickening in the breast or armpit area.
- A newly retracted nipple.
- A change in the colour or skin of the breast, areola or nipple.
- Bloody nipple discharge.
- A change in the size or shape of the breast.
Cause Of Breast Cancer & Risk Factors
The actual cause of stomach cancer is not yet known. However, there are a number of known risk factors. The following are known risk factors for breast cancer:
- Age – The risk increases with age, particularly after 50.
- Family history – Having a close relative with breast cancer raises the likelihood.
- Genetic mutations – Inherited mutations in BRCA1, BRCA2, and other genes.
- Hormonal factors – Early menstruation (before age 12), late menopause (after age 55), or hormone replacement therapy.
- Lifestyle factors – Smoking, alcohol consumption, and obesity.
Certain health conditions may also increase the chance of a person developing breast cancer. These include:
- Atypical hyperplasia – A condition involving abnormal cells in the breast.
- Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) – A marker for increased risk, though not cancer itself.
- Dense breast tissue – Makes it harder to detect abnormalities on mammograms and may increase risk.
Screening For Breast Cancer
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Early detection through regular screening is vital in reducing the severity of breast cancer treatment and improving survival rates.
1. Mammography
Mammography is the most reliable method for breast cancer screening in Singapore. It involves specialised medical imaging to examine breast tissue for abnormalities. There are two main types of mammograms available:
- 2D Mammogram: Provides two-dimensional images of the breast, typically taken from the top-to-bottom and side views.
- 3D Mammogram (Tomosynthesis): Takes multiple X-ray images from different angles to create a three-dimensional image of the breast, offering a more detailed view.
Screening Recommendations:
- Women aged 40-49: Consider annual mammography after discussing the benefits and limitations with a doctor.
- Women aged 50 and above: Mammography is recommended every two years.
Mammogram services are widely available at public hospitals, polyclinics, and private clinics across Singapore.
Health Screening Packages For Women With Mammography
If you are looking to undergo a comprehensive health screening, mammograms may be included in health screening packages for women. Browse our e-shop for packages with mammography.
2. Breast Ultrasound
Breast ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of breast tissue and is often used as a supplementary tool to mammograms, particularly for women with dense breast tissue.
3. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Breast MRI is a more sensitive imaging method that uses magnetic fields to produce detailed images. It is 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).
4. DIY Breast Self-Examination
In addition to mammography, women are encouraged to perform monthly breast self-examinations. The Singapore Cancer Society suggests a simple three-step procedure:
- Look: Observe changes in breast shape, skin surface, and nipple abnormalities. Raise your arms to look for changes on the underside of the breast.
- Touch: Use your middle three fingers to feel your breast in a circular motion from the outer area towards the nipple. Gently squeeze the nipple to check for any discharge.
- Check: Examine your entire breast from the armpit to the cleavage for lumps. Repeat for the other breast.
Stages Of Breast Cancer
Staging breast cancer helps determine the extent of the disease and guides treatment options. The stages include:
- Stage 0: The cancer is non-invasive and remains confined to the breast ducts, without spreading to other parts of the breast.
- Stage I: Cancerous cells are present in nearby breast tissue. Tumours are typically small and have not spread extensively.
- Stage II: The cancer has formed a tumour or tumours. Tumours may measure less than 2 centimetres and involve nearby lymph nodes, or they may be larger, measuring up to 5 centimetres, with or without lymph node involvement.
- Stage III: This stage is considered locally advanced breast cancer. The cancer has spread to nearby tissues and lymph nodes but has not yet reached distant organs.
- Stage IV: The cancer has metastasised, meaning it has spread beyond the breast to other areas such as the bones, liver, lungs, or brain.
Breast Cancer Treatments
Treatment plans are tailored to the individual’s condition and may include:
- Surgery: Options include lumpectomy (removal of the tumour) or mastectomy (removal of the entire breast).
- Radiation therapy: Targets and destroys cancer cells in specific areas.
- Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth.
- Hormonal therapy: Blocks hormones that fuel certain types of breast cancer.
- Targeted therapy: Focuses on specific molecules involved in cancer growth.
Costs
Learn more:
- How Much Does Mammogram Screening Cost In Singapore?
- Medical Imaging: MRI Cost Comparison In Singapore, Johor Bahru And Kuala Lumpur
- Financial Planning For Cost Of Medical Treatment
- MediSave And Medishield Life Coverage For Overseas Singaporeans
Survival Rate
According to the Singapore Cancer Registry Annual Report 2021, breast cancers are among those that consistently had the best survival rates out of the most frequent incident cancers among females. Additionally, the five-year ASRS of the most common incident cancer in females – breast cancer – had significantly improved from 49.9% in 1973-1977 to 82.5% in 2017-2021.
Contact Us For An Appointment
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Learn more: Guide To Finding The Best Breast Cancer Doctor In Singapore
FAQs
Who should go for breast cancer screening in Singapore?
Women aged 40 and above are encouraged to undergo regular mammograms. Those with a family history of breast cancer should consult their doctor for personalised screening recommendations.
Can men get breast cancer?
Yes, although rare, men can develop breast cancer. Symptoms include a lump in the breast, nipple discharge, and changes in the skin or nipple.
Is breast cancer curable?
The prognosis depends on the stage at which it is diagnosed. Early-stage breast cancer has a high survival rate with appropriate treatment.
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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.