Understanding Breast Cancer: It Can Happen to Any Woman
Breast cancer is the most common female cancer in Singapore, and it can affect women of any age or background. While some cases are linked to inherited genes or lifestyle, the majority arise from a combination of factors. Experts stress that being healthy or without a family history does not guarantee immunity. As Dr Ang Wei-Wen, a breast surgeon at Tan Tock Seng Hospital, notes, many cases occur spontaneously. This means staying informed and vigilant is crucial for early detection and better outcomes.
About 5 to 10 percent of cases are inherited, according to Dr Sabrina Ngaserin. For most women, there is no single cause. Breast cancer typically develops from a mix of genetic, hormonal, environmental, and lifestyle influences.
Stage at Diagnosis: Why Early Help Matters
A concerning statistic is that roughly one in ten Singaporean breast cancers are diagnosed at Stage 4, higher than in many developed countries. Early detection through screening and symptom awareness can alter the course of the disease. In comparison, Stage 4 diagnoses in South Korea were under 1 percent in 2021. Delays in seeking care—often due to the belief that absence of pain means nothing is wrong—can contribute to later-stage diagnoses.
Do Not Ignore Any Change: Breast Self-Awareness
Breast self-exams are a practical tool for becoming familiar with your body. Dr Lim Sue Zann emphasizes starting self-awareness at puberty and aligning checks with your menstrual cycle for those who are still menstruating. For post-menopausal women, pick a regular monthly time. Look for changes in size, shape, skin, nipple or the underarm area. If you notice a persistent, immobile lump, skin changes, nipple discharge (especially if bloody), or a lump in the armpit, seek medical evaluation promptly.
Regular self-examination helps you establish a personal baseline. If something feels off compared with your usual, report it to your healthcare provider promptly.
Screening: How Often Should You Get a Mammogram?
Many people misunderstand film results as a lifetime guarantee. A single clear mammogram is not a guarantee against future cancer. Dr Ang explains that mammograms provide a snapshot in time, so annual or biennial screenings are important to catch evolving changes. In Singapore, guidelines typically recommend:
- Women aged 40–49: yearly mammograms
- Women aged 50 and older: every two years
Some women with a family history may begin earlier, about 10 years before the relative’s diagnosis. Density of breast tissue can affect screening performance; many women have dense breasts, which may warrant additional imaging such as MRI for those at higher risk.
Radiation and Safety: Is Screening Harmful?
Fears about radiation from mammograms are common, but clinicians reassure that the exposure is very low. The benefits of early cancer detection far outweigh any minimal risk. If you have dense breasts or higher risk, your clinician may tailor screening with supplemental methods.
Genetics: When Family History Matters
Germline mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 can be inherited from either parent. A family history on either the paternal or maternal side matters in assessing risk. Testing is typically advised if there is cancer diagnosed before age 40, bilateral breast cancer, triple-negative breast cancer before 60, or a personal history of other cancers such as ovarian cancer. A positive test does not guarantee cancer, but it does guide risk-reduction strategies, including enhanced screening, preventive medication, or risk-reducing surgery for some individuals.
Taking Action: Practical Steps for Singaporean Women
– Know your baseline: perform regular self-checks and discuss any changes with your doctor promptly.
– Follow age-appropriate screening: 40–49 annually; 50+ every two years, or as advised based on risk.
– Consider genetic counselling if there’s a strong family history or early-onset cases in your relatives.
– For those with dense breasts or higher risk, explore additional imaging as recommended by your healthcare team.
Bottom Line
Breast cancer can affect any woman, but informed vigilance and timely screening improve outcomes. By understanding risk factors, adhering to screening schedules, and knowing when to seek help, Singaporean women can take meaningful steps toward early detection and effective treatment.
