Breast Cancer Screening: What You Need to Know Breast cancer screening refers to tests and exams used to detect breast cancer in its ear...
Breast Cancer Screening: What You
Need to Know
Breast cancer
screening refers to tests and exams used to detect breast cancer in its early
stages before symptoms appear. Early detection increases the chances of
successful treatment and helps improve outcomes.
When inquiring
about breast cancer screening
prices in Singapore,
the main screening tests that may be part of your package include:
- Mammograms: X-ray images of the breast
that can detect tumors or abnormalities.
- Breast Ultrasound: Sound waves are used to create
images of the breast, often used if mammograms show abnormalities.
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Used for women at high risk of
breast cancer, MRI provides more detailed images.
Who
Should Get Screened and When?
Recommendations
for breast cancer screening depend on individual risk factors and age. The American Cancer Society (ACS) suggests the following guidelines:
- Ages 40-44: Women have the option to begin
annual mammograms.
- Ages 45-54: Annual mammograms are
recommended.
- Ages 55 and older: Women in this age bracket can
have mammograms every two years or continue annually.
Women with a
higher risk of breast cancer—due to family history, genetic factors, or
previous breast conditions—may need to start screening earlier and may require
additional imaging like MRI. Always consult a healthcare provider for a
personalized screening schedule that meets your individual needs.
Methods
of Breast Cancer Screening
Breast cancer
screening saves lives by detecting cancer early, which makes it easier to
treat. When breast cancer is caught in its early stages, treatment is often
more effective, and there are more options available, including less invasive
surgical procedures.
Regular screenings
can also identify changes in breast tissue before they develop into cancer
which allows for preventive measures to be taken. Here are the notable methods
of breast cancer screening in Singapore;
1.
Mammography
Mammograms are the
most common and effective method of breast cancer screening. They use low-dose
X-rays to create images of the breast so radiologists can detect any unusual
masses or microcalcifications, which could be an early sign of breast cancer.
Mammograms are
quick, taking about 20 minutes, but can be slightly uncomfortable as the breast
is compressed between two plates. This compression is essential to obtain clear
images.
2.
Breast Ultrasound
Breast ultrasound
is often used to further evaluate abnormalities detected during a mammogram or
physical exam. It uses sound waves to produce images of the breast and can help
distinguish between solid masses and fluid-filled cysts. Ultrasound is particularly
useful for women with dense breast tissue, where mammograms might not provide
clear results.
3.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
Breast MRI is
typically reserved for women with a high risk of breast cancer due to factors
such as genetic mutations (e.g., BRCA1 or BRCA2) or a strong family history.
MRI uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images and can
detect abnormalities that mammograms may miss. It is a more sensitive test, but
it is not usually recommended for women at average risk due to its higher cost
and greater chance of false-positive results.
What are
the Risk Factors for Breast Cancer?
It’s important to
know your risk factors for breast cancer, as they determine when and how often
you should be screened. Risk factors include:
- Family History: A history of breast cancer in
close relatives (mother, sister, or daughter) increases your risk.
- Genetic Mutations: Certain genetic mutations,
such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, can significantly increase your risk of
developing breast cancer.
- Personal History: If you’ve had breast cancer
before, you are at a higher risk of recurrence.
- Age: The risk of breast cancer increases
with age.
- Lifestyle Factors: Alcohol consumption, lack of
physical activity, and hormone replacement therapy can also contribute to
an increased risk.
Benefits and Limitations of Breast Cancer Screening
While breast
cancer screening in Singapore has several advantages, it also comes with
limitations you will need to be knowledgeable about before beginning. Here's a
summary of benefits and risks;
Benefits of Breast Cancer Screening
- Finding cancer early means
treatment can begin sooner which leads to better outcomes.
- Early-stage cancers often
require less aggressive treatments compared to those caught at a later
stage.
- Regular screenings can provide
reassurance for women without any signs of breast cancer.
Limitations of Breast Cancer Screening
- Mammograms may sometimes detect
abnormalities that aren’t cancer which can leave room for further tests
and anxiety.
- No screening tool is
perfect—some cancers may not show up on a mammogram, especially in dense
breasts.
- Screening may identify cancers
that would never have caused symptoms or affected a woman's health during
her lifetime, leading to unnecessary treatment.
How to
Prepare for Breast Cancer Screening
Preparing for a
breast cancer screening, particularly a mammogram can make the experience
smoother and help ensure the most accurate results: Here is how to prepare for
your breast cancer screening in Singapore;
- Schedule your mammogram at a
time when your breasts are least likely to be tender, usually about a week
after your menstrual period.
- Do not apply deodorants,
antiperspirants, powders, or lotions under your arms or on your breasts on
the day of your mammogram, as they can show up on the images and
complicate the interpretation.
- If you have breast implants, be
sure to inform the technician, as additional images may be needed.
What
Happens After an Abnormal Screening Result?
An abnormal breast
cancer screening result doesn’t necessarily mean you have cancer. It means that
the radiologist has noticed something unusual in your breast tissue that needs
further evaluation. The next steps may include:
- Additional
Imaging: You might need another mammogram
or an ultrasound to get a closer look.
- Biopsy: If the imaging shows something
concerning, a biopsy may be performed. For the biopsy, your provider will
take a small sample of your breast tissue for examination under a
microscope.
The
Bottom Line
If you’re unsure
about when or how often you should get screened, talk to your healthcare
provider to develop a screening plan that’s right for you. A knowledgeable
provider will not only adequately address your concerns but also put you on the
right path for routine screenings.
Early detection
saves lives, and regular screenings can make a significant difference in your
treatment outcomes. So, don't put even routine screenings on hold.. To learn
more, schedule an appointment today at;
The Artisan Health
Clinic | Health Screening | STD Testing | HIV Testing Singapore
290 Orchard Rd, #07-01C
Paragon Medical Suites,
Singapore 238859
+65 8129 8877
