Breast Cancer Screening in Singapore
Breast cancer often progresses silently, showing no noticeable symptoms in its early stages. Breast cancer is also the most common cancer among women in Singapore*, making regular screenings crucial.
- Over 2,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer every year.
- Yearly, 400 Singaporean women die from the disease.
- 1 in 13 women will get breast cancer in their lifetime.
*Source: Singapore Cancer Registry 50th Anniversary Monograph (1968 – 2017)
Early detection can significantly improve survival rates. Breast cancer screening empowers women to take charge of their health and get the timely intervention they need.
From regular mammograms to breast ultrasounds, Prologue is here to ensure a safe and seamless experience for women.
Key Benefits of Breast Cancer Screening
1
Detects cancer before symptoms appear
Breast cancer often progresses silently, showing no noticeable symptoms in its early stages. Early breast cancer detection increases your chances of survival and successful treatment.
2
Increases treatment success rates
When breast cancer is detected early, treatment options are more effective, less invasive, and have higher survival rates.
3
Provides peace of mind
Regular screening offers reassurance and equips women to stay on top of their health.
4
Reduces the need for aggressive treatments
Detecting breast cancer in its early stages can help avoid more treatments like chemotherapy or mastectomy, which can be physically and emotionally daunting.
5
Helps identify high-risk cases
Screening can detect abnormal changes early, allowing high-risk women to take preventive steps.
6
Enables women to take charge of their health
Proactive screening fosters confidence in managing one’s well-being.
At Prologue, we make breast screening a seamless experience—Say hello to comfortable waiting times, thorough consultations with a female doctor, and a serene space that’ll feel like home.
Recommended Screening Guidelines
The recommended frequency of breast screening depends on your age and risk factors:
Age Group | Screening Recommendation |
|---|---|
20 years old onwards | Monthly breast self-examination |
40–49 years | Mammogram every year
(Consult your doctor on benefits vs. risks*) |
50–69 years | Mammogram every two years |
70 years and above | Consult your doctor for personalised screening advice |
*Risks include:
- False Positives – Younger women tend to have denser breast tissue, which can make mammograms harder to interpret, leading to false alarms and unnecessary follow-ups like biopsies.
- Overdiagnosis – Some detected abnormalities may be slow-growing or non-threatening, meaning a woman might undergo treatment for a cancer that wouldn’t have caused harm in her lifetime.
Women with a family history of breast cancer or other high-risk factors (such as genetic mutations like BRCA1/BRCA2, personal history of abnormal biopsies, or prior chest radiation) may require earlier and more frequent screenings.
General recommendations for high-risk women:
- Start screening earlier – Often at age 30 (or 10 years before the youngest relative’s diagnosis).
- Annual mammograms and ultrasounds – Yearly mammogram + breast ultrasound for more thorough detection.
- MRI screening – Some high-risk women may be advised to undergo breast MRI along with a mammogram.
Breast ultrasound is often used in combination with mammography:
- For younger women with dense breast tissue
- When a lump is felt but not visible on a mammogram
- To further examine suspicious areas from mammograms
It’s safe, radiation-free, and offers added peace of mind—especially in high-risk cases.
It’s essential to consult a doctor for personalised screening recommendations based on your risk factors.
Breast Cancer Screening
Screening Type | Best For | How It Works | Why Choose It? | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Mammogram (Most Common) | Women 40+ for routine screening | Low-dose X-ray images with breast compression | • Gold standard for early detection • Detects small tumours before symptoms appear • Detects microcalcifications which can be seen in early breast cancer • Subsidies available | |
Breast Ultrasound | Usually used to evaluate for abnormalities detected during physical examination or mammogram. | Uses sound waves to create breast images | • Safe, radiation-free alternative • Ideal for younger women & dense breasts • Comfortable, no compression | |
Breast MRI (For High-Risk Women) | Women with BRCA mutations or suspicious mammogram findings | Uses magnetic fields & contrast dye for detailed imaging | • More detailed than mammogram/ultrasound • Ideal for high-risk women • Not typically included in routine screening | |
Genetic Risk Assessment | Women with a notable family history of breast cancer | Blood or saliva test to detect BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations, close monitoring and preventive treatments | • Identifies women at high genetic risk • Helps with preventive decision-making • Not a screening test, but a risk assessment | |
Did You Know?
- 1 in 2 women have dense breasts
- 3D mammograms improve detection by up to 40%
- 30% of cancers are missed by 2D alone*
What Is Breast Density, and Why Does It Matter?
Dense breasts have more glandular and fibrous tissue, which can make it harder for 2D mammograms to detect cancer. If you have dense breasts, your doctor may recommend:
- A 3D mammogram
- A supplemental ultrasound
Ask us about 3D options during your next visit.
2D vs 3D Mammograms: What’s the Difference?
A 2D mammogram takes two images (top-down and side view), while a 3D mammogram captures multiple images from different angles to create a 3D reconstruction of the breast.
- Greater clarity – 3D mammograms improve visibility of small lesions and abnormalities.
- Fewer false positives – They reduce unnecessary callbacks by up to 37%.
- Ideal for dense breasts – 3D imaging is more effective in identifying cancer within dense breast tissue.
- Comfort – Newer 3D machines offer more flexible paddles to reduce pain during compression.
Is a Mammogram Uncomfortable?
Many women worry about discomfort during a mammogram. While the procedure involves brief pressure on the breast, it typically lasts only a few seconds per image.
To ease discomfort:
- Schedule your mammogram a week after your period, when breasts are less tender.
- Wear a two-piece outfit for convenience.
- Communicate with the radiographer—they will ensure the process is as comfortable as possible.
Subsidies & Insurance Processing
Financial concerns should never be a barrier to early detection.
- CHAS & Healthier SG Subsidies: We are a CHAS and Healthier SG clinic. Check eligibility for available subsidies.
- Insurance Processing: We will assist with the necessary processing if you have insurance coverage.
For the latest subsidy updates, check with us directly.
Your Screening Journey at Prologue
Consultation with Our Female Doctor
A private discussion to assess your risk factors and recommend the best screening option.
Mammogram Referral
We partner with screening centres to get your mammograms done.
Results & Follow-Up
Your results are sent directly to Prologue, so there’s no need to collect them on an extra trip. If further tests are required, we’ll be here to support and guide you.
Breast Health, Your Best Wealth
At Prologue, we are committed to female wellness and serenity—We offer comprehensive breast screenings in a warm, inviting space, ensuring that every woman feels comfortable and empowered.
As a CHAS and Healthier SG clinic, you may be eligible for subsidies when you visit us.
Your health is worth prioritising—book your breast cancer screening with Prologue today.
FAQ
How long does a mammogram take?
A mammogram for breast cancer screening takes about 10–15 minutes.
Is radiation from a mammogram harmful?
A breast cancer screening involves a very low dose of radiation, roughly equivalent to the amount of radiation you’d be exposed to on a long-haul flight. While mammograms use low-dose radiation, the benefits of early breast cancer detection far outweigh the risks.
Which breast cancer screening test is the most popular and why?
Mammograms are the most commonly recommended and widely available breast cancer screening tool. They detect breast cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages, even before symptoms appear. They are subsidised in Singapore and readily accessible to most women over 40.
Can I book an ultrasound instead of a mammogram?
Yes, but it’s important to note that an ultrasound is a complementary screening tool, not a replacement for a mammogram.
While ultrasounds help evaluate dense breast tissue and specific abnormalities, mammograms remain the gold standard for early breast cancer detection.
Will I need a second trip to collect my results?
No, results are sent directly to Prologue, and we will contact you for a follow-up if needed.
What if I have a lump but no symptoms?
Always get any abnormalities checked. Early assessment is key to ruling out potentially major health concerns and protecting your peace of mind.
Can I get screened if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
Yes, you can. However, during pregnancy and breastfeeding, mammograms are generally not recommended due to breast density and radiation exposure.
Your doctor will offer you personalised advice based on your situation.
Can I get screened with breast implants?
Yes, women with breast implants can and should get screened for breast cancer. However, the imaging technique differs slightly.
Inform your radiographer beforehand so they can adjust the technique accordingly.
Mammograms are safe for implants, and our partner radiologists are trained in effectively screening women with implants.
Does breast cancer screening hurt?
Do not worry. Mammograms may cause brief discomfort but are generally well tolerated.
What if my mammogram shows an abnormality?
Abnormal results don’t always mean cancer. Further tests will be conducted to determine your next steps.
Can I bring a friend or family member for support?
Absolutely! At Prologue, women’s health is a journey best walked with support. Whether it’s a loved one for reassurance or a friend to accompany you, we welcome you to bring someone along.
How do I do a breast self examination?
- Raise your arms
- Lower your arms and press them firmly against your hips
- Turn slowly from side to side and look for changes in size or shape of breasts, nipples, or appearance of skin
- Use small, circular movements to feel your armpits for lumps. Starting from the outside, feel around your breasts in circles.
- Gently squeeze your nipple to check for any bleeding or discharge.
- Lie down and repeat steps 4 and 5.