Cancer remains a major health concern in Singapore, with several types being particularly prevalent. As with most diseases, prevention and catching them early is crucial in treating them effectively!

From 2017 to 2021, Singapore saw an average of 46 new cancer diagnoses and 16 cancer-related deaths daily, according to Singapore Cancer Registry Annual Report 2021. In fact, one in four people may develop cancer in their lifetime. The good news is that early detection and treatment can significantly improve outcomes and management.

Here are the top three common cancers affecting Singaporeans:

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Singapore, making up 29.7% of all cancers in females. About 1 in 13 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime, typically originating in the cells lining the milk ducts and glands. Early detection at a non-invasive stage allows for easier treatment and better recovery. If cancer spreads to surrounding tissues and enters the bloodstream or lymphatic system, it can reach other organs like the lungs, bones, and liver, forming metastatic tumours.

The risk of breast cancer increases with age, especially for women over 40, but younger women and men can also be affected. Family history and genetic mutations increase risk. Reproductive factors, diet, body weight, and physical activity levels also influence breast cancer risk.

Signs and Symptoms
Breast lumps, bloody nipple discharge, skin changes, an itchy rash on the nipple, and breast pain are possible symptoms. However, eight out of 10 breast lumps are benign. Early screening is crucial for better outcomes and successful treatment!

Here are three easy steps for monthly breast self-check:

• Look: Put hands on hips and see if your breasts’ shape has changed, skin surface and nipple abnormalities. Raise arms above head to see the underside of breasts have dimples.
• Touch: Feel one breast with three middle fingers, moving in circular motions from outer area to nipple. Gently squeeze nipple to check for discharge. Repeat for the other breast.
• Check: Using your palm, press around the whole breast from armpit to cleavage with different pressure for lumps. Repeat for the other breast.

You can do it lying on the bed, standing in the shower or in front of the mirror. Best time to examine is seven to 10 days after the start of your period. If you no longer experience periods, choose a date that is easy to remember.

Lung Cancer

In Singapore, lung cancer is the third most common cancer for both men and women. Between 2014 and 2018, it accounted for 14% of all cancers in men and 7.5% in women. It is also the leading cause of cancer deaths in men.

There are two main types of lung cancer: small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). SCLC is aggressive, spreads quickly, and is closely linked to smoking. NSCLC is more common and includes squamous cell carcinoma, large cell carcinoma, and adenocarcinoma.

Cigarette smoking is the leading risk factor for lung cancer, with risk increasing based on the number and duration of smoking. Second-hand smoke also raises lung cancer risk by 30%. Other risks include age (over 40), exposure to harmful chemicals, air pollution, and a family history of lung cancer. Avoiding smoking is the best way to reduce lung cancer risk.

Signs and Symptoms
Lung cancer often has no symptoms in its early stages. Common symptoms may include general weakness, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, wheezing, hoarseness, frequent chest infections, fever, constant chest pain, and loss of appetite.

Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer occurs in the colon and rectum, the last part of the digestive tract. Polyps, which are benign growths, can form on the inner walls of the colon and rectum, especially in people over 50. Some polyps can become cancerous over time and should be removed if detected.

Men and women aged 50 and older face a higher risk of colorectal cancer, with Chinese individuals in Singapore being particularly at risk. Those with a history of colorectal polyps or cancer should undergo regular screening due to increased recurrence risk. Familial polyposis, a rare inherited condition causing numerous polyps from a young age, significantly raises cancer risk and often necessitates early colon removal.

A family history of polyps or colorectal cancer also increases risk. Long-term ulcerative colitis, a bowel disease, further elevates risk, as does a sedentary lifestyle.

Signs and Symptoms
Colorectal cancer may not show symptoms early on but watch for these warning signs: blood in stools, changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain or discomfort, anaemia (low red blood cell count), and abdominal lumps.

Prevention

As with all medical conditions, prevention is better than cure. So here are the things to do and not to do to prevent cancer:

• No tobacco
• Limit alcohol
• Eat healthily
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Be physically active
• Protect from the sun
• Get vaccinated
• Practise safe sex
• Don’t share needles
• Go for regular screenings

If you zealously follow the above list, it helps in decreasing the chances of getting cancer. The list is also good for living as an informed person who takes charge of your life proactively.