Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women in Singapore today. 1 out of every 17 women in Singapore is likely to be afflicted by breast cancer, with more than 1,100 new cases diagnosed every year.

Breast Issues

It occurs when breast cells become abnormal and divide without control or order. The majority of breast cancers start in the milk ducts. Breast cancer can spread to the lymph nodes and to other parts of the body such as the bones and liver.

Risk Factors

   ●  Family History of Breast Cancer, eg. mother, sister,
         aunt or grandmother

   ●  Personal History of Breast Cancer

   ●  Early Menstruation, before the age of 12

   ●  Late Menopause, after the age of 55

   ●  Having the First Child, after the age of 30

   ●  Women on Long term use of combined 
         Hormone Replacement Therapy

Signs and Symptoms

These symptoms may be caused by a number of problems and may not indicate the presence of cancer, but if any of the above symptoms persists or is bothering you, do consult your doctor for advice.

• A Thickening or Lump in or near the Breast
• A Change in the Size or Shape of the Breast
• A Change in the Colour or Feel of the Skin of the Breast, Areola or Nipple
• Bleeding or Bloody Nipple Discharge
• Itch and Rash on the Nipple
• A recently Retracted or Inverted Nipple

Screening and Consultation

Breast Cancer Screening and Consultation are Available at the following Institutions:

Screening	consultation
National Cancer Centre (Diagnostic)	National Cancer Centre
Changi General Hospital	Changi General Hospital
KK Women's & Children's Hospital	KK Women's & Children's Hospital
Singapore General Hospital	Singapore General Hospital
SingHealth Polyclinics

Treatment

Treatment Options for Breast Cancer include:

• Surgery, ranging from a Lumpectomy to Mastectomy or involve Chemotherapy, Radiation Therapy and/or Hormone Therapy.