What You Need To Know

Breast Cancer Treatment & Detection in Singapore

Understanding breast cancer can save lives. From early detection and risk factors to screening methods, treatment options, and prevention tips, International Cancer Specialists (ICS) is committed to providing the knowledge, support, and expert care you need to take control of your breast health.

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DEFINITION

What is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Singapore, affecting 1 in 3 women within their lifetimes. 

Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast grow abnormally and multiply uncontrollably, forming a lump or mass. While it most commonly affects women, all humans have some amount of breast tissue. This means that men can also develop breast cancer

The disease can start in different parts of the breast, such as the milk ducts or glands, and may spread to nearby tissues or other parts of the body if not detected early.

Thanks to medical advancements, early detection and timely treatment can significantly improve breast cancer's 5-year survival rates by up to 99%. This highlights the importance of regular screenings and increased awareness in the fight against breast cancer.

What are the Types of Breast Cancer?

Some of the most common forms of breast cancer include:

Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS)

Cancer cells are limited to the milk ducts and have not spread to the rest of the breast tissue. Breast cancer is usually very treatable at this stage.

Invasive Breast Cancer

The cancer cells have spread from the milk ducts or glands and affected surrounding breast tissue or other body parts. 

Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC)

This type of cancer cells do not form a lump or tumour, making them more difficult to detect early. Instead, IBC blocks the lymph glands, causing the breast to appear reddish and feel warm to the touch.

Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC)

TNBC cells are called triple-negative because they lack three of the proteins important for breast cancer detection:

  • Estrogen receptors
  • Progesterone receptors
  • HER2 proteins 

Because these cancer cells test negative for the above elements, TNBC may be harder to treat and spread faster than other types of breast cancer.

Signs & Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Your body often gives you signals that something might be wrong, even if it does not end up being breast cancer

Do you experience any of the following?

A lump or hardness in the breast or underarm.

Changes in the size, shape or appearance of the breast.

Skin on the breast that looks dimpled or like an orange peel.

Skin on the breast is peeling, scaling, or flaking.

Discharge from the nipple.

Nipples that suddenly turn inwards (inversion).

It may be time to book an affordable, comprehensive screening for breast cancer at ICS.

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Who is at Risk of Breast Cancer?

Some risk factors are beyond our control, and having one or more does not necessarily mean a person will develop breast cancer. However, staying informed and proactive about your health is essential.

Some risk factors related to breast cancer are:

Age

Getting older is one of the primary risk factors for breast cancer. Women over 50 should be especially vigilant.

Family History

If you have a mother, sister, or daughter who has been diagnosed with breast cancer, your chances of developing the disease might be higher.

Genetics

Breast cancer is not hereditary. However, mutations in two types of genes known as BRCA1 and BRCA2, inherited from a parent, can increase the risk of breast cancer.

Early Periods and Late Menopause

Women who start menstruating before age 12 or experience menopause after age 55 have a higher likelihood of breast cancer.

Lifestyle Factors

Both men and women who are overweight have an increased of breast cancer. Drinking alcohol and smoking tobacco are also risk factors for the disease.

The Importance of Early Detection

Stop Breast Cancer Before It Starts

Detecting breast cancer early offers many benefits, including:

Improving treatment effectiveness while minimising invasiveness

Reducing the severity and intensity of side effects

Providing peace of mind and allowing for informed decision-making about your care

SCREENING

Breast Cancer Screening Methods

Modern breast cancer screenings are affordable, accurate, and minimally invasive, providing you with the best chance for early detection. At International Cancer Specialists, we recommend regular screenings based on your age, risk factors, and medical history to ensure timely detection and the best possible outcomes.

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Mammogram

A mammogram is a type of X-ray screening that can reveal lumps or other abnormalities in the breast tissue before they grow large enough to be felt by hand. It is one of the most effective tools for early breast cancer detection.

If a mammogram results show any areas of concern, your doctor may recommend further testing to get a clearer diagnosis. 

When should you consider getting a mammogram?

Ages 40 and above: It’s recommended to have a mammogram every 1–2 years.

Under 40 with risk factors: If you have a family history or other risk factors, consult your doctor to determine the most suitable screening type and frequency.

Breast MRI

This screening method uses Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to give a detailed view of the breast’s internal structure.

Breast MRIs are typically ordered alongside mammograms, especially for high-risk individuals, to enhance detection accuracy. 

When should you consider getting a breast MRI?

Women with a high risk of breast cancer are advised to have a breast MRI every year.

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Clinical Breast Exam

A clinical breast exam is conducted by your doctor or other trained healthcare provider. During the exam, your healthcare provider will observe the appearance of your breasts, manually check for lumps or other irregularities, and order any further tests if necessary. 

While you should regularly perform breast self-examinations at home, a trained professional can detect signs or symptoms that you might miss. 

When should you consider getting a clinical breast exam?

Age 25-39: Start getting clinical breast exams every 1 to 3 years.

Age 40 and over: Continue with annual clinical breast exams. 

At ICS, we offer a full cancer-focused health screening in Singapore which includes a mammogram, blood tests, MRI tests, and more. Our dedicated oncology specialists can provide early detection, ensure accurate diagnosis, and give you a detailed medical consultation for peace of mind.

OUR SOLUTIONS

Breast Cancer Treatment Options at ICS

We offer the latest in medical treatments tailored to your needs, including:

Surgical Options

Minimally invasive surgery to remove tumours.

Immunotherapy

Boosts the body’s immune response against lung cancer.

Hormonal Therapy

Prevents lung cancer regrowth by blocking certain hormones in the body.

Radiation Therapy

High-energy radiation to target and eliminate lung cancer cells.

Dietary Care

Personalised nutrition plans to boost immunity and improve overall health.

Palliative Care

Improves quality of life by providing relief from symptoms like pain and fatigue.

Chemotherapy & Targeted Therapy

Powerful treatments designed to destroy cancer cells and prevent recurrence.

The ICS team will work closely with you to choose the best treatment for your needs.

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Steps to Reduce Risk

Can You Prevent Breast Cancer?

While not all cases can be prevented, such as those related to your family history, simple lifestyle changes can help reduce your risk of developing breast cancer. 

Stay physically active and maintain a healthy weight.

Eat a nutrient-rich diet with fresh vegetables and lean proteins.

Reduce alcohol intake and avoid smoking.

Schedule regular screenings and perform self-checks at home.

Gain Confidence in Your Diagnosis with a Second Opinion

Whether you've already had a breast cancer screening or facing a new diagnosis, getting a second opinion from a trusted oncology specialist can provide you with peace of mind.

A second opinion can help you:

Clarify your first diagnosis

Ensure accurate interpretation of previous test results

Reduce the risk of errors or misdiagnosis

Open the door to more treatment options if necessary

Our team of experienced and qualified breast cancer specialists is here to answer all your questions, clear any doubts, and guide you through your screening, diagnosis or treatment plan with confidence.

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Experience Compassionate, Personalised Care at ICS

From the very first screening to all stages of treatment, ICS makes things easier for you by providing the best in accessible, affordable, and accurate breast cancer care in Asia. 

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1. Tailored Treatment Plans

Customised to your medical history, financial capacity, and lifestyle to ensure the best possible care.

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2. Financial Support

We help you explore payment options and navigate insurance policies, ensuring that cost doesn’t stand in the way of your treatment.

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3. Expert Care You Can Trust

Our team of experienced oncologists and nurses, who are committed to delivering the highest standard of care every step of the way.

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4. Access Care Anytime, Anywhere

With ICS’ teleconsultation services, so you can consult with our oncology experts at your convenience, including from the comfort of your own home.

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5. Second Opinions

Our cancer specialists give you clarity and confidence in your diagnosis and treatment plan.

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6. Holistic Approach to Cancer Care

We prioritises your physical, emotional, and mental well-being and recovery.

Real Stories, Real Hope

"I'm really grateful to Dr Ooi Wei Seong and the staff of ICS for making my weeks at ICS so bearable. They're an excellent team of healthcare professionals who really care for their patients. During my treatment sessions, they always made sure I was comfortable and checked on me frequently.Dr Ooi is an experienced professional who's deeply knowledgeable in his field, but he also has a very warm, approachable and jovial manner that puts one at ease. All of the clinic staff - the nurses (Pearl, Alena, Pushpa, Kartini and Nerina), the clinic administrator (Susie) and the lady who gives me barley water every week - are a warm and wonderful team and never fail to make me smile during every visit.Thank you to the team at ICS for your compassion and support during this challenging time."

B Chung

Patient

"I am grateful to all the ICS nurses and Dr Ooi for the care throughout my chemo journey. It was the worst 5 months of my life because of the cancer but ICS made it better...First thank you for Dr Ooi for being there throughout the journey esp when I had a fever for almost one month due to Taxol induced Pneumonitis, and for the timely intervention to send me for the necessary heart checks, CT scan, etc, to get to the root of the problem. He did not waste a single day to troubleshoot the problem.I also want to thank the nurses who attended to me. Special mention to Kartini who is very gentle and is incredibly skilled in putting in the IV plug and drawing my blood. Seriously if she poke you its as unpainful as it gets already. I also want to thank Alina and Pushpa for diluting my meds and administering them without hiccups too. I hear stories of chemo leaking into tissues but I never had such experience at ICS because the nurses are very experienced. Plus the part-time nurse (so sorry I forgot your name but remember your warm words) for always making sure I'm comfortable with blankets drinks and such. And Susie for the warm greeting every time I come in.Only issue I have is because they are sooo popular and due to covid measures only 4 patients allowed at one time (I think) so scheduling is a headache. The nurses (esp Alina) try their best to schedule everyone. :)And BTW you can watch Netflix and Viu in the clinic (if the TV is available that day) if you have your own account because they have smart TV. This is very important when you are in discomfort during chemo, any distraction helps. The air is very clean because they have air purifiers in every room. Here are some pics. Cheers."

Xin Hui Tan

Patient

"In my case, Dr. Toh Keng Kiat gave me clear evaluation regarding the disease now happened in my doughter... suggestion dan information also good and clear, it is recommended to do teleconsul before doing a necessary for future action. In my religion should say Alhamdulillah i found the right place to consultation. Thank you."

Amri Santoso

Patient

"I consider myself lucky to be treated by this medical team. Dr Ooi, as always, has been very friendly and patient. He will try his best to give advice to me, other than providing medication, to make me feel better especially during my chemo treatments. The girls are helpful and caring, making sure I am comfortable during the treatments. At times they do brightens up my day considering this is my lowest point of my life. Thank you all of you. I will miss you all."

Ade

Patient

"From Day One, Dr Ooi has put me at ease. With his positive and cheerful behaviour. When my tumours returned shortly after surgery, he was still edging me not to give up. Best of all, he was responsive even if you have concerns outside his clinic hours and wanted to talk to him about it.Thank you for making me feel like I was getting the best care. Thank you to all the nurses (past and present- Hangqi, Pearl, Alìna, Kartini, Pushpa) for making me feel safe, as pain free as possible and cared for. I know I haven’t been an easy patient when the needles come out. But the nurses & staff were extremely patient. Thanks to Susie as well.Great job to all!"

N. Angullia

Patient
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Make Your Breast Health a Priority Today

Early detection saves lives. Whether you need a screening, consultation, or second opinion from breast cancer specialists in Singapore, ICS Cancer is here to provide humane, expert care. We’re here to help you navigate every step of your journey with the confidence, compassion, and personalised treatment you deserve.

Take the first step to a healthier life with ICS—simply fill in the form below to schedule a consultation with our expert team today.

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FAQ

When detected early, treatment success rates are as high as 99%. Even in later stages, effective treatments can help manage the disease and improve quality of life.

Eating a healthy diet, exercising, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking and drinking can all contribute to better breast health.

A mammogram usually takes about 20 minutes. Some may experience mild discomfort, but it is brief and essential for early detection.

A benign lump is non-cancerous and does not spread, while a malignant lump contains cancerous cells that can grow and invade surrounding tissues. A doctor can confirm this through a biopsy.

Yes, breast cancer can develop without noticeable symptoms, which is why regular screenings like mammograms are crucial for early detection.

Do send us an email at enquiries@icscancer.com or give us a call at (+65) 6235 9005. Alternatively, if you have WhatsApp, feel free to leave us a message at (+65) 8168 6908 and we will be sure to get back to you as soon as possible.

Certain insurance plans cover health screening costs. Get in touch with us to find out more about your particular plan’s coverage.

Our medical specialists regularly provide friendly second opinions to patients who have been diagnosed with cancer, including patients from restructured hospitals as well as private specialists.

Kindly bring your latest medical reports, scan images, and any relevant test results. Due to safe distancing measures in place, only one accompanying person is allowed per patient.

Yes, we offer comprehensive treatment for foreign patients and assist with all aspects of their care, including medical consultation, treatment, and administrative arrangements.

Teleconsultation allows you to consult with a cancer specialist remotely via video or phone call. This provides a convenient way to receive expert advice without needing to travel. Whether you’re in Asia or beyond, our teleconsultation process is secure and follows all privacy and confidentiality standards to protect your personal and medical information.

Be at ease as at ICS you never walk alone, let us plan for financing together. Upon your visit to ICS for treatment, we provide free financial counselling to assist you in making an informed choice on finance matters, and ensure that you access the most affordable treatment. Our team of nurses with years of experience in handling international, local, and corporate insurance stand ready to assist with any issues with the financing of your treatment that you may have.

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