Health screenings are an important tool to help ensure a good quality of life. Even if you feel perfectly healthy, regular health screenings are important as symptoms may not be evident until it is too late. Regular screening improves the chances of early detection and appropriate intervention so that the you can obtain better outcomes.
What should you screen for?
18 years and Above
OBESITY
Obesity may lead to chronic illnesses such as type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and heart disease later in life.
- Body Mass Index (BMI) test once a year.
- Waist circumference test once a year.
HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE
Otherwise known as hypertension, it is often called a silent killer as it may lead to heart failure, kidney failure, or strokes without any symptoms.
- Blood pressure measurement once every 2 years. Increase frequency if advised by your doctor
40 years and Above
DIABETES
Based on a report in 2015, Singapore has the second-highest proportion of diabetics among developed nations. Diabetes, when left unchecked, can lead to brain cell death, blindness, organ damage etc.
- Fasting blood glucose test once every 3 years. Increase frequency if advised by your doctor.
HIGH BLOOD CHOLESTEROL
Blocked arteries may occur as a result of high cholesterol. This happens because excess cholesterol may be stored in your arteries, causing the arteries to harden and narrow.
- Lipid profile test once every 3 years. Increase frequency if advised by your doctor.
50 years and Above
COLORECTAL CANCER
This is the number one cancer in Singapore. As this cancer usually begins as a non-cancerous polyp or growth in the colon or rectum, hence early detection is possible with regular screenings.
- Faecal immunochemical test once a year, OR
- Colonoscopy once every ten years
Additional tests for women
CERVICAL CANCER
Cervical cancer is the 10th most common cancer in Singaporean women, but can be effectively treated with early detection. The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is a common virus and some strains may infect the cervix.
- 25-29 years old: Pap smear test once every three years.
- 30 years old and above: HPV test once every five years.
BREAST CANCER
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among Singaporean women. It is recommended that women undergo mammogram examination and monthly breast self-examination so that you can detect any changes in your breasts.
- Breast self-examination every month.
50 years old and above: Mammogram once every two years.
Subsidised Health Screenings for Singaporeans & PR
If you are worried about the costs involved in the screening that needs to be done at a clinic, fret not. Under the HPB Screen for Life campaign, screening can be as low as $5. Eligible Singapore citizens and permanent residents can enjoy subsidised screening fees at any of the CHAS-approved DA Clinic outlets islandwide.