All about Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Singapore. About 1,100 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year. Through regular mammography screening, breast cancer can be detected early where treatment is generally more successful.
The earliest form of breast cancer is known as ductal carcinoma in-situ (DCIS). These cancer cells are confined within the milk ducts and there is very little potential for spread to lymph nodes and other parts of the body. It is then termed as non-invasive cancer. Breast cancer at this stage is classified as stage 0 and the five year survival rate is 99%.
Breast cancer is termed as invasive cancer when it is classified into stage 1 to 4. The cancer cells at the later stage would have spread and affect the lymph nodes and other parts of the body. The 5-year survival rate decreases as the stages of the cancer increases.
The key to a better survival is early detection of breast cancer through regular mammography screening.
The risk of developing breast cancer increases with age. Besides age, family history of breast cancer may also increase the risk of breast cancer.
The most effective method to detect breast cancer early is through screening mammography. However, many women are not coming forth for screening mammography as they think that they are free from breast cancer when they do not feel any lump in their breasts.
At times, there could be signs of breast cancer such as:
- a painless lump
- persistent rash around the nipple
- bleeding or any unusual discharge from the nipple
- swollen and thickened skin
- dimpled or puckered skin
- retracted nipple
If you notice any of the above signs, you are advised to consult a doctor as soon as possible.
Mammography is the x-ray of the breasts. It is an effective way to detect any small lumps which are not palpable (felt by hands). Early detection of breast cancer in its early stages can save breasts and lives.
Mammography is available at the X-ray centres located at selected polyclinics and hospitals as well as private X-ray centres.
Alternatively, you can join BreastScreen Singapore. Under this programme, female Singaporeans and Permanent Residents (PRs) pay a subsidised rate of $50 and $75 respectively for mammograms done at the X-ray centres of the polyclinics.
Your results of your mammography may be normal or abnormal.
If your results are classified as normal, that means, your mammograms do not show any abnormalities in your breasts. However, you are still strongly advised to go for regular screening as breast cancer may develop during the periods between your screening intervals. You should go for routine screenings according to the recommended screening intervals.
Women aged between 40 to 49 years old = once every year
Women aged above 50 years old = once every two years
Besides routine screenings, you should also practise Breast Self-Examination (BSE) once every month. It is important to complement mammography as like many other medical tests, mammography does not guarantee 100% detection. By practising BSE monthly and being more familiar with the look and feel of your breasts, you should be able to observe any changes in your breasts in the interval between your regular mammography screenings. |
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