Balancing work and wellness: How regular screenings help women stay ahead

In Singapore, where workdays often stretch long and productivity is prized, many women find themselves balancing demanding careers with family and caregiving responsibilities. In the rush to manage it all, health checks are often delayed or overlooked.

Yet regular health screenings are one of the simplest and most effective ways to stay well. They help identify potential health issues early, support long-term wellbeing, and sustain the energy and focus needed to perform at your best — at work and at home.

Women make up nearly half of Singapore’s workforce, but studies show that they are less likely than men to attend regular health screenings. The reasons are familiar: lack of time, work demands, or the belief that “it’s not urgent.”

However, some health changes can develop quietly over time, such as hormonal imbalance, thyroid issues, or early signs of breast and cervical conditions. Routine screenings help detect these early, when they are often easier to manage, supporting better health outcomes and quality of life.

For women aged 50 and above, mammogram screenings are also subsidised under Singapore’s Screen for Life programme, which makes preventive care more affordable and accessible.

Many employers in Singapore provide corporate or executive health screening programmes as part of employee benefits. These typically include essential checks such as:

• Blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels
• Liver and kidney function
• Body mass index (BMI) and cardiovascular risk profile
• Doctor’s consultation and summary report

These screenings form a good foundation for maintaining general health. However, most basic corporate packages do not include women-specific checks that offer a more complete picture.

For women who want a fuller understanding of their health, comprehensive screening packages are available through many corporate health providers in Singapore. These often include:

• Hormone profile tests to assess thyroid, reproductive, and metabolic balance
• Breast imaging such as a mammogram or ultrasound, depending on age and breast density
• Cervical screening such as a Pap smear or HPV test
• General health markers for heart, metabolic, and bone health

These checks may already be part of your company’s health plan or can be added through your screening provider.

If your corporate health screening focuses mainly on general blood tests, you may wish to include additional tests that offer broader insights into your health status and potential risks:

• Hormone panel (thyroid, estrogen, progesterone, FSH, LH)
• Breast imaging (mammogram or ultrasound)
• Pap smear or HPV test
• Bone density scan (recommended for women over 45)
• Multi-cancer early detection blood test

Corporate health screenings are designed to help employees stay well, but it is up to each of us to make the most of them. If you are unsure what your company’s package includes, check with your HR or wellness team to find out whether women’s health checks, hormone tests, or breast imaging can be included or added for a small fee.

In a fast-paced country like Singapore, where time often feels scarce, taking a few hours each year for your health can make all the difference. Regular screenings are not just about prevention, they are an act of self-leadership that helps you stay strong, focused, and ready for what comes next.

To learn more about women’s and corporate health screening options, including comprehensive packages with hormone checks and breast imaging, visit https://www.hmimedical.com/corporate-health-screening

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not replace medical advice. Please consult your doctor for personalised recommendations.