Protect Yourself Against
The No. 1 Female Cancer
Protect Yourself Against The No. 1 Female Cancer
Breast Cancer affects 1 out of 14 women.
Early detection and regular breast screening is key.
*Source: Singapore Cancer Society (2019)
Why Breast Cancer Screening is Important
Most of the time, breast cancer does not produce any symptoms.
Early detection is the key to survival if breast cancer develops.
A woman who gets breast cancer will often not feel any pain or discomfort, loss of weight or appetite.
The only way to detect breast cancer early is through regular mammograms and breast ultrasounds.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How is breast screening done?
There are a few ways in which breast screening is done; your doctor will recommend which option is most suited for you.
Mammogram
A mammogram makes use of low doses of X-ray to detect lumps within the breast. During the scan, each breast will be placed between 2 planes of the machine, and subsequently compressed. This helps to flatten the breast tissue and allow appropriate imaging of the breast.
Breast Ultrasound Imaging
During a breast ultrasound, a ultrasound probe is placed on the skin and moved over the breast to detect the presence of lumps.
Breast Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
The breast MRI is not a routine screening that is done for all women. It is sometimes used for further investigations or for women of certain risk profiles.
Genetic Risk Assessment for Breast Cancer
A genetic risk assessment is used to specifically look out for mutations in the BRCA gene. Women who have mutated BRCA genes have a higher chance of developing breast cancer. This test is mainly indicated for women who have a very strong history of breast cancer in the family, especially if their family members were affected below the age of 50.
What happens during breast screening?
Typically, you will need to be unclothed on the top half when doing a mammogram or ultrasound, with a female nurse or radiographer in the room. After the screening is completed, a consultation will be arranged to go over the results and findings.
Ladies doing a mammogram can expect some short-lived discomfort as the breast will be compressed when taking the x-ray.
How long will a breast screening take?
The screening usually takes up to 15-30 minutes. This is before factoring in waiting time and consultation time.
What do I need to prepare for breast screening?
- Ladies are advised to wear a two-piece outfit on your appointment day.
- Fasting is not required.
- Recommended for ladies to try to schedule your appointment one week after your menstruation ends.
- For ladies who no longer have periods, any date is suitable.
