Breast Cancer

Introduction

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women in Singapore — and in many cases, it can be treated successfully when detected early. It happens when cells in the breast grow uncontrollably, forming a lump or tumour that can spread to nearby tissues or other parts of the body.

Understanding symptoms of breast cancer, the different types, and available treatments helps women take charge of their health and seek timely care.

On this page, you will find:

Signs & Symptoms

Breast cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the breast multiply uncontrollably. These cells can form a lump, which may invade nearby tissues or spread (metastasise) to other parts of the body, such as the bones, lungs or liver.

Early detection starts with awareness. Knowing the breast cancer signs can help you identify when to seek medical advice.

Common Symptoms of Breast Cancer:

A lump or thickening in the breast or underarm area
Changes in breast size, shape, or contour
Nipple discharge (especially if bloody or clear)
Skin dimpling, puckering, or visible distortion of the breast
Redness, flakiness, or scaling around the nipple or breast skin
Persistent pain or tenderness in any part of the breast

Causes & Risk Factors

There is no single answer to what triggers breast cancer, but several factors can increase your risk.

Common Breast Cancer Risk Factors:

Age: The risk of developing breast cancer increases significantly after the age of 40, as hormonal changes and cumulative cellular damage over time make breast tissue more susceptible to abnormal growth.
Family History: Having a close relative — such as a mother, sister, or daughter — with breast cancer increases your risk, especially if the cancer occurred before menopause or affected both breasts. This may indicate a hereditary link.
Genetic Mutations: Inherited mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes greatly raise the lifetime risk of both breast and ovarian cancers. Genetic testing can help identify carriers and guide preventive strategies or early screening.
Hormonal Factors: Hormone-related influences such as early onset of menstruation, late menopause, or long-term use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can increase exposure to oestrogen and progesterone, which are linked to breast cancer development.
Lifestyle Factors: Obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking and a sedentary lifestyle contribute to higher breast cancer risk. Maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise and limiting alcohol can significantly reduce this risk.
Previous Radiation Exposure: Individuals who received radiation therapy to the chest — especially during childhood or adolescence — face an increased risk of developing breast cancer later in life due to cumulative radiation effects on breast tissue.

Understanding these breast cancer risk factors can help you make informed lifestyle choices and prioritise screening.

Diagnosis

Early detection gives women the best chance for successful breast cancer treatment and recovery. A proper breast cancer diagnosis involves a combination of physical examination, imaging and laboratory tests to confirm whether abnormal tissue is cancerous and to determine its stage and aggressiveness.

Common Diagnostic Tests Include:

Physical Examination: A specialist examines the breasts for any lumps, changes in shape, nipple discharge or skin dimpling. The underarm and collarbone areas are also checked for swollen lymph nodes, which may indicate possible spread.
Mammogram: A low-dose X-ray that can detect abnormal growths or calcifications in breast tissue before they become noticeable by touch. This is the most effective screening tool for detecting early-stage breast cancer. Women aged 40–49 are advised to screen every 1–2 years, while those 50 and above should do so annually.
Ultrasound or MRI: Breast ultrasound uses sound waves to assess lumps or fluid-filled cysts, especially in women with dense breast tissue. Breast MRI provides highly detailed images to check the extent of cancer and detect additional tumours that may not appear on a mammogram. These imaging tools are often used together for a clearer diagnosis.
Biopsy: A biopsy involves removing a small tissue sample from the suspicious area to examine under a microscope. This confirms whether cancer cells are present and identifies the type of breast cancer. Biopsy results also reveal hormone receptor status (oestrogen, progesterone and HER2), which helps guide treatment decisions such as hormone therapy or targeted therapy.

Once the diagnosis is confirmed, your specialist will determine the breast cancer stage based on tumour size, lymph node involvement and spread. This step is vital for developing an accurate treatment plan tailored to your condition.

Types of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer can develop in different areas of the breast — ducts, lobules, or tissues in between — and each type behaves differently. Knowing which type of breast cancer you have helps your specialist select the most effective treatment and predict outcomes.

1. Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS)

A non-invasive type where abnormal cells are confined within the milk ducts and have not spread to the surrounding tissue
Considered an early form of breast cancer, but if untreated, it may progress to invasive cancer
Treatment often includes surgery (lumpectomy) and sometimes radiation therapy

2. Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC)

The most common type of breast cancer accounts for about 80% of cases
Begins in the milk ducts and invades nearby breast tissue, with the potential to spread to lymph nodes or distant organs
Treatment typically involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, depending on the breast cancer stage

3. Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC)

Starts in the lobules, the glands that produce milk, and can spread to the surrounding tissue
Often, it is more difficult to detect on a mammogram because it grows in thin, single-file patterns rather than forming a distinct lump
Diagnosis may require an MRI and biopsy for confirmation
Managed through surgery, hormone therapy and targeted medications

4. Inflammatory Breast Cancer

A rare but aggressive form of breast cancer that blocks lymph vessels in the skin of the breast
Causes visible changes such as redness, swelling, warmth and dimpling of the skin, giving it an “orange peel” appearance
Progresses rapidly and requires urgent treatment with a combination of chemotherapy, surgery and radiation therapy

5. Paget’s Disease Breast Cancer

Affects the nipple and areola, often linked to underlying ductal carcinoma
Symptoms include itching, burning, flaking, or crusting of the nipple skin, sometimes mistaken for eczema
Treatment depends on the underlying cancer and may include surgery and radiation therapy

6. Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC)

A high-grade, fast-growing cancer that does not have oestrogen, progesterone or HER2 receptors
Because it does not respond to hormone or targeted therapies, chemotherapy is the primary treatment option
More common in younger women and those with BRCA1 genetic mutations

7. HER2-Positive Breast Cancer

Involves an overexpression of the HER2 protein, which promotes cell growth
This type tends to be more aggressive but responds well to targeted therapy drugs such as trastuzumab (Herceptin)
Treatment usually combines chemotherapy and HER2-targeted therapy

Each type of breast cancer behaves differently in terms of speed, symptoms and response to treatment.

Early-stage cancers like DCIS have a high chance of recovery with timely treatment
Invasive and aggressive types like inflammatory or triple-negative breast cancer require immediate, multi-modality treatment for control

Understanding your breast cancer type and stage allows your specialist to create a personalised treatment plan that improves recovery outcomes and long-term survival.

Breast Cancer Staging & Survival Rates

Staging helps determine how far the disease has progressed by assessing tumour size, lymph node involvement and potential spread to other parts of the body. Accurate staging guides treatment planning and helps predict outcomes.

Stage 0: Non-invasive or pre-cancerous changes (e.g. ductal carcinoma in situ), confined to the milk ducts.
Stage 1: Tumour smaller than 2 cm and limited to the breast, with no or minimal lymph node involvement.
Stage 2: Larger tumour or limited spread to nearby lymph nodes in the underarm.
Stage 3: More extensive local spread to the chest wall, skin, or multiple lymph nodes, but not distant organs.
Stage 4: Cancer has metastasised (spread) to distant organs such as the bones, lungs, liver or brain.

The breast cancer survival rates depend on early detection and treatment effectiveness.

Stages 1–2 (Early-Stage Breast Cancer): Survival rates are high when breast cancer is detected and treated early. Most patients achieve remission with a combination of surgery, radiotherapy, and, where indicated, targeted or hormonal therapy. At this stage, treatment aims to eliminate the tumour and prevent recurrence, often allowing patients to return to normal life after recovery.
Stages 3–4 (Locally Advanced or Metastatic Breast Cancer): These stages involve more extensive disease but are increasingly manageable with modern therapies.
- Stage 3 breast cancer can often be controlled with multimodal treatment — including chemotherapy, targeted therapy or mastectomy.
- Stage 4 breast cancer, though not curable, can be managed effectively through targeted, hormonal and immunotherapy to prolong survival and preserve quality of life.

Consistent screening, close follow-up and treatment adherence are crucial at every stage to improve long-term outcomes and reduce recurrence risk.

Treatments

Treatment for breast cancer depends on the stage, type and overall health of the patient.

Surgery: Lumpectomy (removing the tumour) or mastectomy (removing the entire breast)
Radiation therapy: Destroys remaining cancer cells after surgery
Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to kill or control cancer cells
Hormone treatment for breast cancer: Blocks hormones like oestrogen or progesterone that help cancer grow
Targeted therapy: Attacks specific molecular changes in cancer cells

Treatment plans are individualised, often combining several approaches to achieve the best results.

Ready to learn what might help you? Learn more about Breast Cancer Treatments on this treatment page.

Complications

If breast cancer is left untreated or diagnosed late, it can progress and spread (metastasise) to distant organs such as the bones, lungs, liver or brain. This not only makes treatment more complex but can significantly affect survival and quality of life.

Metastasis: Spread of cancer to distant sites, leading to pain, organ dysfunction, and fatigue
Lymphedema: Persistent swelling of the arm or chest following lymph node removal or radiation therapy
Recurrence: Return of cancer in the same breast, the opposite breast, or other areas of the body
Emotional and Psychological Impact: Anxiety, depression and body image concerns are common, particularly after surgery or during long-term treatment

Timely treatment and ongoing monitoring help reduce these risks significantly.

Prevention

While breast cancer cannot always be prevented, certain steps can reduce your risk.

Schedule regular mammograms from age 40
Perform monthly breast self-examinations
Maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly
Limit alcohol intake and avoid smoking
Eat a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains
Discuss genetic testing if you have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer

Living with Breast Cancer

Living with breast cancer involves managing both physical and emotional health. Many women recover fully and go on to live long, active lives.

Follow your medication and follow-up schedule strictly
Eat well and stay hydrated during treatment
Seek emotional support through counselling or peer groups
Discuss reconstruction or prosthetic options after surgery
Stay positive and celebrate small milestones throughout your recovery

Navigating Breast Cancer in Singapore

The Problem and Types of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, with risk increasing with age, family history and hormonal factors. The condition develops when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably within breast tissue. The main types include ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), invasive ductal carcinoma, and lobular carcinoma, each requiring different approaches to diagnosis and treatment. Early detection through regular mammograms remains key to successful outcomes.

Consultation to Ongoing Care

Managing breast cancer in Singapore starts with a consultation at a hospital or specialist clinic. Your specialist will review your symptoms, risk factors and medical history before recommending screening or diagnostic tests. National programmes such as Screen for Life and initiatives by the Breast Cancer Foundation encourage women aged 40 and above to undergo regular mammograms, enabling early detection even before a lump is felt.

If abnormalities are found, imaging tests and a biopsy confirm the diagnosis and determine the type and stage of breast cancer, which guide your treatment plan. Treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy or hormonal therapy, depending on your condition. In some cases, breast reconstruction may also be discussed to restore shape and confidence after surgery.

After treatment, regular follow-ups, scans, and blood tests are essential to monitor for recurrence and support recovery. Ongoing breast cancer care in Singapore is available through both public and private healthcare providers, ensuring access to continuous monitoring, physiotherapy and emotional support.

When to Seek Help

You should seek medical advice if you notice a lump or thickening in your breast or underarm, changes in breast shape or skin texture, or nipple discharge that is clear or bloody. Persistent breast pain, redness or swelling should also be evaluated promptly.

If you are over 40 or have a family history of breast cancer, schedule regular mammograms and self-examinations as part of preventive care. Early detection greatly increases the likelihood of successful treatment. If you have concerns about your symptoms, speak to a breast cancer specialist for further evaluation and guidance.

Find a Breast Cancer Specialist in Singapore

You don’t have to face breast cancer alone. If you’ve noticed symptoms or been recently diagnosed, a breast cancer specialist or surgeon can guide you through every stage — from diagnosis and staging to surgery, therapy and follow-up. Their expertise ensures that treatment decisions are well-informed and integrated for the best possible outcomes.

Get in touch with a Breast Cancer specialist today. You can contact us via WhatsApp to book an appointment or ask any questions.

Insurances covering the Conditions

Ready to Get the Right Support?

If you have concerns about your health or want clear answers about what to do next, we are here to help.

Reach out to us today. Expert help and reassurance are just a message away.

Related Specialist

Spine Surgery

Free Healthcare Asia Newsletters In Your Inbox

Get health tips, updates on Singapore healthcare and expert-backed guides.

Your data is in the safe hands. Privacy policy