Cancer Screening in Singapore
Cancer screening is a process used to detect certain cancers before symptoms develop. At Prologue Clinic, our doctors may recommend tests such as mammograms, Pap smears, colorectal screening, or selected laboratory tests depending on your age, gender, and risk profile.
Early detection through appropriate screening may allow earlier medical assessment and management.
Some cancers may not show symptoms in the early stages. Screening at Prologue Clinic can help detect these conditions earlier, which may allow earlier medical assessment and management. Without screening, cancers are often only detected at more advanced stages, when fewer opportunities for timely medical review may be available.
Breast Cancer (Mammography):
- Women aged 50–69: A mammogram once every two years is generally recommended under national screening guidelines.
- Women aged 40–49: Screening decisions should be discussed with your doctor, considering potential risks and benefits. If screening is chosen, annual mammograms may be suggested. Mammograms can be less accurate at younger ages due to denser breast tissue, which may also increase the likelihood of false positives.
Cervical Cancer:
- Ages 25–29: A Pap smear once every three years is recommended to check for cervical cell changes.
- Ages 30 and above: An HPV DNA test once every five years is recommended. Sometimes, Pap smears and HPV tests may be done together (co-testing). Persistent HPV infection has been identified as a key risk factor for cervical cancer.
Colorectal Cancer:
- From age 50 onwards: Screening is recommended, as colorectal cancer is one of the more common cancers in Singapore.
- Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): Once every year, to detect hidden blood in stool.
- Colonoscopy: Every 5–10 years, to directly examine the colon and, if necessary, remove polyps that may potentially develop into cancer.
Other Cancers:
- Ovarian, endometrial, or prostate cancer: Routine screening is not generally recommended for individuals at average risk, as current evidence does not show clear benefits compared to the possible risks of unnecessary testing or treatment.
- Nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC): Screening may be considered for individuals with a family history, as this cancer is uncommon in the general population but occurs more frequently in certain higher-risk groups in Asia.
Quick Reference Table
Cancer Type | Age Group | Recommended Test | Frequency |
Breast Cancer | Women 50–69 | Mammogram | Every 2 years |
Women 40–49 | Mammogram (after GP discussion) | Annually if chosen | |
Cervical Cancer | Women 25–29 | Pap smear | Every 3 years |
Women 30+ | HPV DNA test | Every 5 years | |
Colorectal Cancer | Adults 50+ | FIT (stool test) | Every year |
Adults 50+ | Colonoscopy | Every 5–10 years | |
Other Cancers | Average risk | No routine screening | — |
Family history of NPC | NPC screening | As advised by GP |
Suppose you are a Singaporean citizen enrolled in Healthier SG. In that case, you may be eligible for subsidies on selected screening tests such as mammograms, Pap/HPV tests and the Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) when your enrolled family doctor orders these.
Your screening results can be recorded in the National Electronic Health Record (NEHR), which allows your doctor to review the findings and arrange appropriate follow-up care as part of your Healthier SG care plan.
*Please speak with your family doctor to learn more about your eligibility and recommended screenings.
Mammogram: An X-ray imaging test used as part of breast cancer screening to identify changes in breast tissue.
Pap Smear & HPV Test: A Pap smear collects cervical cells for examination. HPV testing may also be performed. In some cases, both tests are done together (co-testing) for a comprehensive cervical cancer screening
Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) / Colonoscopy:
- FIT is a stool test that checks for hidden blood, which may indicate colorectal disease.
- Colonoscopy allows direct examination of the colon. During the procedure, polyps can be identified and, if appropriate, removed.
Additional Tests
- PSA Test: A blood test that measures prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels. It may be used in discussions about prostate health and screening.
- CT Lung Scan: Sometimes recommended for individuals at higher risk (e.g., those with a history of heavy smoking).
Note: These tests may be considered individually depending on age, health profile and doctor’s assessment.
Prologue Clinic informs eligible Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents about subsidies available under national health programmes such as Screen-for-Life for specific recommended tests.
Who Should Consider Additional Screening?
Family History or Genetic Risk
People with close relatives who have had breast, ovarian, colorectal, or prostate cancer may be at higher risk. In such cases, earlier or more frequent screening may be discussed with a doctor. Genetic counselling and, where appropriate, testing (e.g., BRCA1/2) can help guide recommendations.
High-Risk Groups
Those with risk factors such as long-term smoking, chronic hepatitis B or C, or cirrhosis may have personalised screening needs. Depending on the doctor’s advice, this may include tests such as low-dose CT scans for lung cancer, or ultrasound and blood tests for liver cancer.
Take Charge of Your Health
Take a proactive step towards your health. Schedule a consultation at Prologue Clinic to discuss which cancer screening tests may be right for you.
FAQ
At what age should I start cancer screening?
The recommended age for starting screening depends on the type of cancer. For example, breast cancer screening with mammograms is generally considered from age 40 onwards, cervical screening from age 25 and colorectal screening from age 50. The exact timing can vary depending on individual risk factors, so it is best to confirm with your doctor.
Can I do a “full body cancer check”?
There is currently no single test that can detect all types of cancer. Some screening panels may include blood tests for tumour markers and imaging, but these do not cover all cancers and should not be seen as definitive. Screening should be tailored to your health profile according to medical advice.
Are tumour marker panels recommended for screening?
Tumour marker tests can sometimes provide additional information, but they are not recommended as standalone screening tools. Results are most useful when interpreted with imaging studies, medical history and a doctor’s assessment.
Will screening be painful?
Most screening tests, such as mammograms, Pap smears and stool tests, are painless or may cause mild temporary discomfort. Preparation is needed for procedures such as colonoscopy, and the test is usually done with sedation to improve comfort. Your doctor will explain what to expect and discuss potential risks before the procedure.