Breast cancer diagnosis among younger women is prompting new efforts to encourage earlier screening in Singapore. Although traditionally targeted at older women, recent data indicates that about one in 10 breast cancer cases occur in women below the age of 40, with one in six diagnosed before age 45.

Each year, over 2,000 women in Singapore receive a breast cancer diagnosis. In response, the Singapore Cancer Society (SCS) recently expanded its mammogram screening eligibility, now offering free mammograms to women aged 40 and above who hold CHAS orange or blue cards. This marks a shift from the previous age threshold of 50 years. The free screenings are available at the SCS Clinic located at Bishan, and registrations can be made online. This update aligns with recommendations from the Screening Test Review Committee appointed by the Ministry of Health. Earlier this year, the committee advised that women aged 40 to 49 with no symptoms and normal risk factors undergo annual breast cancer screening, while those aged 50 to 74 receive screenings every two years.

In a separate initiative, Manulife Singapore, the Breast Cancer Foundation (BCF), and Parkway Radiology have launched a three-year partnership to provide free mammograms and tele-consultations through the MammoxXpress Mammography Bus. Women aged 40 and above can book appointments online, with the mobile screening unit regularly visiting different locations to increase accessibility. The program aims to engage women in their communities, workplaces, and educational institutions, focusing particularly on younger women who may not perceive breast cancer screening as relevant or readily available.

Mammograms, while recommended starting at age 40, are generally not advised for women under 40 due to denser breast tissue which can complicate image interpretation. Women in this age group are encouraged to consult with a doctor via free tele-consultations to evaluate their individual risk and determine appropriate screening steps.

SCS clinical head Priyanka Rajendran highlights that fear and misconceptions remain significant obstacles to screening participation. Some women express concerns about pain during mammography or doubts about the screening’s effectiveness based on anecdotal experiences. Others mistakenly believe that regular breast self-examinations can replace mammograms or that a lack of family history excludes them from risk.

According to Associate Professor Lim Geok Hoon of KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital, early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes. The five-year survival rates for breast cancer stand at 99% for Stage I and 93% for Stage II diagnoses but fall sharply to 31.9% at Stage IV. Lim, who heads the hospital’s breast department, stresses the importance of timely screening to enhance prognosis.

This year’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month underscores the importance of education and support, spotlighting healthcare professionals and patients who advocate for awareness and early detection in the fight against breast cancer.