Lung Cancer - Don’t Wait for Symptoms. Get Screened Early.
Lung cancer is a top killer cancer in Singapore that may not present symptoms in the early stages. Learn more about this disease with our collection of informative articles and resources.
Lung Cancer Screening – Early Detection For Better Treatment Outcomes
Early detection is a crucial factor for lung cancer treatment. Lung cancer is a silent disease and symptoms may not show in the early stages. Over 60% of lung cancers are diagnosed only at Stage IV. Survival rates for late stage lung cancer are low compared to other cancers.
Schedule a screening to ensure peace of mind and protect your health. Do not wait for symptoms to appear – by then, the cancer may already have advanced. Screening packages from our Preferred Doctors you can consider:
Book lung screenings now, and stay one step ahead of lung cancer.
See A Doctor
If you are looking for a doctor in Singapore for lung cancer screening or treatment, here are some to consider:
Click below for a listing:
Financials
MediSave and MediShield Life provide structured support for lung cancer treatment but do not typically cover screening costs. For treatment, MediShield Life covers outpatient cancer drugs listed on the Cancer Drug List (CDL), subject to monthly claim limits. Screening expenses, including imaging tests like CT scans are generally not claimable unless part of post-diagnosis monitoring.
Patients undergoing CDL-listed treatments can use MediSave to offset co-payments and deductibles, while those requiring non-CDL therapies may need to rely on alternative subsidies like the Medication Assistance Fund or seek financial counseling through public healthcare institutions.
Check with CPF on the latest MediSave policies.
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FAQs
1. What Are the Early Signs and Symptoms of Lung Cancer?
Lung cancer often develops silently in its early stages, with few or no symptoms. However, some early warning signs may include:
- Persistent cough that does not go away
- Coughing up blood (haemoptysis)
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue or weakness
If you experience any of these symptoms for an extended period, consult a doctor for further evaluation.
2. What Are the Main Causes and Risk Factors for Lung Cancer?
Lung cancer is primarily caused by smoking, but non-smokers can also develop the disease. The main risk factors include:
- Smoking – The leading cause of lung cancer, accounting for over 80% of cases
- Second-hand smoke exposure
- Air pollution – Common in urban areas, including Singapore
- Occupational exposure – Exposure to asbestos, radon, or other harmful chemicals
- Family history of lung cancer
- Previous lung diseases – Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or pulmonary fibrosis
Reducing exposure to these risk factors can help lower your risk.
3. How Is Lung Cancer Diagnosed?
Doctors use several tests to diagnose lung cancer, including:
- Chest X-ray – The first step to check for lung abnormalities
- CT scan – Provides detailed images of the lungs
- PET scan – Helps detect cancer spread
- Bronchoscopy – A thin tube with a camera is inserted into the airways to examine lung tissues
- Biopsy – A sample of lung tissue is taken for lab analysis
Early detection improves treatment success rates, so people at high risk (such as smokers) should consider lung cancer screening.
4. What Are the Treatment Options For Lung Cancer?
The treatment plan depends on the type and stage of lung cancer. Common treatments include:
- Surgery – Removes part or all of the affected lung
- Chemotherapy – Uses drugs to kill cancer cells
- Radiation therapy – High-energy radiation targets cancer cells
- Targeted therapy – Focuses on specific genetic mutations in cancer cells
- Immunotherapy – Helps the immune system fight cancer
Advanced lung cancer may require a combination of treatments for the best outcomes.
5. Can Lung Cancer Be Prevented?
While not all lung cancers can be prevented, the risk can be significantly reduced by:
- Not smoking (or quitting if you currently smoke)
- Avoiding second-hand smoke
- Reducing exposure to air pollution and harmful chemicals
- Maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle
- Undergoing lung cancer screening if you are at high risk
Early detection and preventive measures can save lives, so it’s crucial to stay informed about lung cancer risks.
Additional Resources
- What Is Lung Cancer? | National Cancer Institute (NCI – US). Available From: https://www.cancer.gov/types/lung
- Lung Cancer Overview | Mayo Clinic. Available From: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lung-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20374620
- Lung Cancer Screening: It’s More Than a CT Scan | Cleveland Clinic. Available From: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/podcasts/respiratory-exchange/lung-cancer-screening-its-more-than-a-ct-scan
- Lung Cancer: Risk Factors and Prevention | Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC – US). Available From: https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/lung/
- Lung Cancer – Signs, Diagnosis, and Treatment | NHS (UK). Available From: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/lung-cancer/
- Lung Cancer Treatment | Neumark Surgery. Available from: https://neumarksurgery.com/conditions/lung-cancer-treatment/
- Lung Cancer: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment | National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS). Available From: https://www.nccs.com.sg/patient-care/conditions-treatments/lung-cancer
- Beyond tobacco: Lung cancer in nonsmokers | Harvard Health Publishing. Available From: https://www.health.harvard.edu/cancer/beyond-tobacco-lung-cancer-in-nonsmokers
- Effects of Secondhand Smoke on Your Child’s Health | HealthHub. Available From: https://www.healthhub.sg/live-healthy/bring-the-gift-of-smoke-free-living-home
- Lung cancer: Not just a smoker’s disease | SingHealth. Available From: https://www.singhealth.com.sg/news/patient-care/lung-cancer-not-just-a-smokers-disease