Cancer Tests You Should Know About

Why is it important to find cancer early?
Anyone can get cancer. But you are more likely to get cancer as you get older – even if no one in your family has it. Cancers that are found early may be easier to cure. Early treatment can be simpler, with fewer side effects. It could also save your life and help you live to the fullest.

Who should you ask about cancer tests?
If you are seeing a doctor for other check-ups, why not bring up the subject of cancer tests? You can also ask your family doctor or other trusted health professionals about getting tested for cancer. The nurse counselors at the Cancer Helpline, National Cancer Centre Singapore will also be able to help clarify any concerns you have about testing for cancer.

Cancer Tests
Certain changes could be a sign of cancer. For example, a change in bowel habit or a breast lump. If you have suspicious signs and symptoms, see a doctor immediately. You and your doctor need to decide what test is right for you. You may need certain tests more often if you have cancer before, have some other medical condition or have a family member who has had cancer.

Cancer Tests for Women

Breasts
A woman’s risk of breast cancer increases with age. Fortunately, women can take 3 steps to detect it early.

a. Breast self-examination (BSE)
Perform BSE monthly about 7 to 10 days from the first day of your menses. If you no longer menstruate, choose a same date each month to perform BSE. See a doctor if you detect any changes e.g. redness, swelling, a lump, skin changes or nipple discharge. You can contact the Cancer Helpline on tel: 622-55-655 if you require information or instructions on performing BSE.

b.Clinical breast examination by a doctor
Get a doctor or a breast specialist nurse to examine your breasts once a year. This includes visual examination and feeling of the entire breast and underarm area for changes.

c. Mammogram
This is an x-ray of the breast. It is recommended that women 40 to 49years should have a yearly mammogram. Women 50 years and above should go for one every 2 years or as recommended by your doctor. If you are younger than 40 years old, discuss with your doctor about mammogram if you have any suspicious signs and symptoms.

Uterus and Cervix
As women get older they have a higher risk of cancers of the female reproductive organs especially cancers of the uterus and cervix. Ask you doctor about the following tests as part of your annual health check-up.

a. Pelvic examination
The doctor examines the internal sex organs, bladder and rectum for any changes in size or shape.

b. Pap Smear
This test is done usually at the same time as the pelvic examination. The doctor removes a few cells from the cervix with a swab and the specimen is sent for examination under a microscope. After 2 normal annual Pap Smears, your doctor may decide to do the test once every 3 years.

Colon and Rectum
Colorectal cancer is the top cancer affecting Singaporeans today. These 3 tests can help detect them early:

a. Rectal examination
The doctor gently feels for any bumps or irregular areas in the rectum. This can be included as part of your yearly check-up.

b. Feacal Occult Blood test (FBOT)
This is a stool test to detect unseen blood in stool samples. Your doctor can give you a simple test kit to collect a stool sample at home or it can also be done during the rectal examination. Simple test kits are also available at retail pharmacies.

c. Flexible Sigmoidoscopy or Colonscopy
The doctor examines the rectum and lower colon through a narrow flexible tube with a light source attached. This procedure is known as flexible sigmoidoscopy.

Cancer Tests for Men

Prostate
Prostate cancer is the 5 th most common cancer affecting older Singapore men usually 60 years and above.

a. Rectal examination - yearly
The doctor feels the prostate through the rectum to detect any hardening or lumpy areas.

Colon and Rectum
The 3 tests suggested for women are also suggested for men.
a. Rectal examination
b. Feacal Occult Blood test (FBOT)
c. Flexible Sigmoidoscopy or Colonscopy

Where can I get more information about cancer tests?