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 If you’re over 40 and have never gone for a mammography, it’s time to make an appointment.
Breast cancer screening
When Betsy Tan turned 40 last December, she called the national hotline for breast cancer screening to find out how she could sign up.
Madam Tan, a human resource officer said, “I know breast cancer is the top killer among women here. And if detected early, the chances of recovery are very good. I wanted to get myself checked but I decided to wait until I qualified for the government subsidy.”
The mother of two made an appointment at Bukit Merah polyclinic as it was near her office. After her mammography, she went to work as usual. Madam Tan has since received the all-clear and has been given an appointment to be screened again later this year.
Why go for mammography?
Mammography is the only effective way to detect early stage breast cancer when there are no obvious symptoms or signs. International mammography screening exercises have shown a 30 per cent improvement rate in reducing fatal cases of breast cancer in women aged between 40 and 64.
How often should I go for mammography?
Age 40 to 49: Once a year
Age 50 to 64: Once every two years
Where you can go for a mammogram:
- Singapore General Hospital. Tel: 6321-4225
- KK Women's and Children's Hospital. Tel: 6394-8058
- National Cancer Centre Singapore. Tel: 6436-8005
- SingHealth Polyclinics. Tel: 6236-4800
50 per cent discount for Singaporeans
Madam Tan’s subsidised mammography was made possible under Breast Screen Singapore, a national programme launched by the Health Promotion Board five years ago. The programme aims to detect breast cancer early among women aged 40 to 64 for effective treatment to bring down mortality rates. Under the scheme, Singaporeans pay only $50 for a mammography while Permanent Residents pay $75. The usual fee for this special X-ray examination of the breasts is $100.
Check to see if you’re eligible
You qualify for subsidised rates for a mammography if you are:
- A Singapore citizen or permanent resident
- Aged 40 & above
- Do not have breast abnormalities e.g. breast lump or nipple discharge
- Have not undergone a mammography in the last 12 months
- Have not breastfed in the last six months
Ref: Z00
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