What is Breast Cancer?

Did you know that Breast Cancer is the No.1 Cancer for women in Singapore? Breast Cancer occurs when the breast cells mutate, growing abnormally. These mutated cells often grow into a mass of cells – either forming a lump that can be felt during breast examinations or as a tumour that can be seen on an x-ray. 

Risk Factors  

There is no direct cause of Breast Cancer. However, there are several factors that can cause higher risks.

Breast Cancer Symptoms

Early Detection

Early Detection: Mammograms or Self-checks?

Breast Cancer  is often detected through self-examination methods. However, women are encouraged to go for mammograms. Mammograms can detect on average, smaller lumps. This is extremely vital for a higher chance of cure – the smaller the tumours, the better the probability of cure. As such, it is important to identify the tumours as early as possible. If diagnosed early, patients may need only surgery and radiation instead of chemotherapy.  

Women over 50 should go for screenings every two years. Women over 40  should screen every year. However, they may want to  check with their doctors first, to weigh the pros and cons of screening early.

Breast Cancer Stages

Breast Cancer is usually staged from 0-4 and is categorised according to the size of the tumour and if has spread to the lymph nodes or the other parts of the body.

Treatment

Patients can go through surgical or non-surgical means to treat their cancer.

Breast Cancer Treatment

These procedures can have many side effects and this varies from person to person. The common side effects are:

Read further on Breast Cancer: Post- Surgery Recovery.  

How can Jaga-Me Help?

We provide professional cancer care for your loved one. If your loved one needs frequent care, you can engage our services. If you need personalised caregiver training, you can simply ask our nurses! We will assess the condition of the patient and provide you a personalised care plan on how to care for him or her.