Raising Awareness for Breast Cancer Screening and Proposed Cancer Genetic Test Subsides for High-risk Populations

63 Mr Ong Hua Han asked the Minister for Health (a) what is the goal timeframe to increase breast screening take-up rates to at least 70% of women aged 50 to 69; (b) what are the Government’s plans to further educate the public on and address misconceptions of breast cancer and breast cancer screenings; and (c) whether the Ministry will consider looking into subsidising cancer genetic testing for high-risk populations.

Mr Ong Ye Kung: Based on national survey data, the proportion of women aged 50 to 69 who have ever been screened for breast cancer through a mammogram increased from about 60% in 2007 to about 75% in 2023^1,2. However, the proportion for those who go for the recommended regular screening every two years is lower, at 35%².

We will continue our efforts to increase the uptake of regular breast cancer screening through the Health Promotion Board, which works with the healthcare clusters, Singapore Cancer Society and Breast Cancer Foundation, to raise awareness, address barriers and dispel misperceptions to screening. Under Healthier SG, mammograms are fully-subsidised for eligible Singapore Citizen enrollees.

The Ministry of Health is assessing the clinical and cost-effectiveness of selected cancer genetic tests among high-risk populations. Subsidies are generally provided for tests that are found to be clinically and cost effective.