Preventive health is the cornerstone of staying ahead of potential health risks, especially when it comes to common cancers. In Singapore, early detection programs like Screen for Life (SFL) have been designed to empower individuals to take proactive steps in safeguarding their health.
Early screening can identify cancers at an early stage when treatment is more effective and outcomes are more favorable. This article will explore how you can start early preventive health measures against common cancers with Screen for Life, highlighting the benefits of early screening and the various cancer screenings available in Singapore.
Understanding Screen for Life (SFL)
Screen for Life is a national screening program in Singapore that encourages residents to undergo regular health screenings for early detection of various diseases, including cancer. The program is supported by the Health Promotion Board (HPB) and is tailored to the specific health needs of individuals based on age, gender, and medical history.
The objective of SFL is to detect common cancers and other health conditions at an early stage before symptoms develop, which significantly improves the chances of successful treatment.
Through subsidies and comprehensive screening packages, Screen for Life makes cancer screening accessible to the general population. With proper screening, individuals can make informed decisions about their health and take the necessary steps to reduce their cancer risk.
Why Early Screening for Cancer Matters
Cancer is a major cause of death worldwide, and Singapore is no exception. Early detection of cancer is crucial because it allows for more effective treatment options and can often result in a complete cure. Unfortunately, many cancers are not detected until they have progressed to an advanced stage, at which point treatment becomes more complicated and less successful.
By taking advantage of preventive health measures through programs like Screen for Life, individuals can detect cancers such as breast cancer, cervical cancer, colorectal cancer, and more, in their early stages. Early screening tests can identify precancerous conditions or cancers at their earliest stages when they are more easily treatable.
Common Cancers and Available Screenings Through Screen for Life
1. Breast Cancer Screening
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women in Singapore. Screen for Life offers mammograms as the primary method of early detection for breast cancer. Women aged 50 and above are encouraged to undergo a mammogram once every two years as part of their preventive health routine. Mammograms can detect lumps or abnormalities in the breast tissue that may not be noticeable during a self-examination.
Through Screen for Life, subsidized mammograms are available to Singaporean women who meet the criteria. Early detection of breast cancer can significantly improve survival rates and increase the chances of successful treatment.
2. Cervical Cancer Screening
Cervical cancer is another preventable cancer that affects women. Screening for cervical cancer through a Pap smear can detect abnormal cells in the cervix before they become cancerous. Women aged 25 to 69 who have ever been sexually active are encouraged to get a Pap smear once every three years.
With Screen for Life, eligible women in Singapore can access subsidised Pap smear screenings, ensuring that cervical cancer is detected early. Regular Pap smears help prevent cervical cancer by identifying precancerous changes, enabling early intervention and reducing the risk of developing full-blown cancer.
3. Colorectal Cancer Screening
Colorectal cancer is one of the leading cancers in Singapore, affecting both men and women. Early screening can detect polyps in the colon or rectum that may develop into cancer over time. The fecal immunochemical test (FIT) is a non-invasive screening test recommended for individuals aged 50 and above. It detects hidden blood in the stool, which could be a sign of colorectal cancer or other digestive issues.
Screen for Life offers subsidised FIT screening for eligible individuals. Those with positive FIT results are usually advised to undergo a colonoscopy to examine the colon and rectum more thoroughly. Early detection of colorectal cancer significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates.
4. Other Cancer Screenings
While breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer are the primary focus of the Screen for Life program, individuals should also be aware of other cancers such as prostate cancer and lung cancer. Although these screenings may not be covered under SFL, individuals at higher risk due to family history or lifestyle factors should consider discussing additional screening options with their healthcare provider.
How to Get Started with Screen for Life
Getting started with Screen for Life is simple. Residents in Singapore can find out which screening tests they are eligible for by visiting the official SFL website or speaking with a healthcare provider. The program provides personalised recommendations based on factors like age, gender, and medical history, ensuring that individuals receive the most appropriate screenings for their needs.
The cost of screenings is kept low through subsidies, making preventive health measures accessible to more people. For Singaporeans, certain screenings, such as mammograms and Pap smears, are heavily subsidized, while others, like the FIT test for colorectal cancer, may even be free for eligible residents. Permanent residents and foreigners can also access SFL screenings at a reduced cost.
Additionally, SFL provides follow-up support for individuals who require further tests or medical consultations after their initial screenings. This ensures that any abnormal results are promptly addressed, giving individuals the best chance at early intervention and successful treatment.
Benefits of Starting Preventive Health Early
Starting preventive health measures early has numerous benefits. Early screening can reduce the risk of cancer spreading, increase treatment options, and improve survival rates. For those with a family history of cancer or other risk factors, early detection can be life-saving.
Preventive health is also about peace of mind. By staying proactive and undergoing regular screenings, individuals can address health issues before they become serious. This proactive approach to health can lead to better long-term outcomes and reduce the stress and uncertainty that often accompany late-stage cancer diagnoses.
Encouraging a Preventive Health Mindset
Creating a culture of preventive health starts with awareness and education. Programs like Screen for Life are essential in encouraging individuals to take control of their health and prioritise regular screenings. By starting early, individuals can not only reduce their risk of common cancers but also develop healthy habits that promote overall well-being.
Healthcare providers and the community can support these efforts by promoting the benefits of early screening and emphasising the importance of early detection. The more people are aware of the advantages of preventive health, the more likely they are to participate in programs like Screen for Life and take charge of their health.
Take Charge of Your Health: Start Your Cancer Screening Journey with Keystone Medical
Starting early preventive health measures against common cancers is one of the most effective ways to protect your health and well-being. With the support of programs like Screen for Life, Singapore residents can access affordable and convenient screenings that detect cancer in its early stages, giving them the best chance of successful treatment.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your preventive health journey, visit Keystone Medical for expert advice and access to cancer screenings tailored to your needs. Our experienced team can guide you through the process and help you prioritize your health for the future.
References
Healthhub.sg. Screen for Life – National Health Screening Program. https://www.healthhub.sg/programmes/screen_for_life/screening-journey
Singapore Cancer Society.org.sg. Why Go for Regular Cancer Screening?. https://www.singaporecancersociety.org.sg/get-screened/why-go-for-regular-cancer-screening.html
Moh.gov.sg. Cancer Screening. https://www.moh.gov.sg/docs/librariesprovider4/guidelines/cpg_cancer-screening.pdf