Early Detection Saves Lives, Saves Breasts.

Breast Cancer is the TOP cancer among women in Singapore.  Early detection through regular mammography can save your breasts and your life.

You should go for a mammogram every two years if you are 50 or older.

If you are 40-49, please speak to your doctor about the benefits and limitations of going for a mammogram at this age. If screening is performed, it should be done once a year.

If you are below 40, and have a mother or sister with breast cancer, please consult a doctor for advice.

To make a mammogram appointment, please submit your request via our Online Mammogram Appointment Form. You may reschedule your appointment via the same link at least 3 working days before your appointment. Call 6355 3000 if you need more information.

Here is what you can do to protect yourself:

• If you are already on follow up at a hospital, outpatient clinic or private institution for existing breast disease, please continue the appointments with your current healthcare givers.

• If you have breast lumps, discharge, bleeding or pain, please visit your regular doctor immediately.

• If you are 30 to 39 years old, and have a mother or sister with breast cancer, please consult a doctor for advice.

How should you prepare for the mammogram:

• Schedule your test at least one week after the start of your period

• Take a shower before the screening

• Do not use any body lotion, perfume, deodorant or powder from the neck to waist area

• Remember to bring along your identification card

• Inform the radiographer if you suspect yourself to be pregnant

• Wear a comfortable two-piece outfit as you will need to undress from the waist up

• Remove all jewellery before the screening

• Your results will be mailed to you within 4 weeks of your screening date.

Should you need support services or more information, please contact Breast Cancer Foundation at 6356 0123 or Breast Screen Singapore at 1800-333-3030.

Cervical cancer screening is an effective way to detect and prevent onset of cervical cancer early.

There are 2 types of Cervical Cancer Screening: Pap test & HPV test.

You do not have to do both. The Pap test (Pap smear) is recommended for women between 25 -29 years old as the HPV DNA can pick up quite a fair of false positives in this age group. However, for women who are 30 years and above, the HPV-DNA test is proven to be very effective in detecting abnormalities.

Pap smear

A Pap smear is a screening test to check for changes in the cells of your cervix which may develop into cancer later. It is a simple procedure where cells are collected from your cervix and sent to a laboratory to be examined under a microscope. The collection takes only a few minutes and can be done by a doctor or a nurse.

It is recommended for you to do a Pap smear test once every 3 years. However, if you experience any symptoms, please consult your doctor immediately.

HPV DNA test

A HPV DNA test will check if the cells collected from your cervix has the DNA (genetic material) of the high risk cancer-causing HPV strains (e.g. 16, 18). The cell samples for this test is collected in the same manner as the Pap smear.

It is recommended for you to do a HPV DNA test once every 5 years. However, if you experience any symptoms, please consult your doctor immediately.

How should I prepare for the Cervical Cancer Screening?

• Schedule your appointment 2 weeks after the start of your menstrual period. You may make an appointment on the first day of your period.

• Avoid sexual intercourse 48 hours before the test.

• Do not use spermicides, vaginal creams, lubricants, vaginal medications or tampons two days before the test.

• Please reschedule your appointment if you experience any bleeding/spotting prior to the test.

• To make an appointment, please call us at 6355 3000. Alternatively, you may schedule an appointment on NHG Health App click here to learn how.