It has been some years since we last collated all the usefulness of cancer screening. Cancer awareness is increasing in Singapore, and cancer screening has become even more popular. While it is true that cancer screening has led to a tremendous improvement in cure rates in some cancers, they have remained ineffective in other cancers.

Here at NCC, we encounter cancer patient’s family members everyday, all of whom are understandably concerned about his or her own risk of getting cancer. Every person is unique, so we believe that cancer screening, especially for cancer patient’s family members, should be tailored. In December 2005, we launched a cancer-screening clinic that takes into considerations a person’s risk for certain cancers. This new clinic hopes to reassure and allay the fears of family members of cancer patients, and more importantly, to detect cancer at its earliest stage, which will result in better chances of cure with treatment.

Many cancer-screening packages are also widely available in the community, ranging from the most inexpensive and simple to the sophisticated and exorbitant. It is important for physicians to be able to assist patients and members of the public in making informed choices in procedures of cancer screening. We hope that this little summary is an enjoyable read that also serves to refresh our memories. So happy reading.

 

See Hui Ti
Editor, Cancer Update