Know the signs of Breast Cancer

As we observe Breast Cancer Awareness this month, it’s a timely reminder to raise awareness about breast health and take proactive steps for early detection.

Breast cancer remains a leading health concern in Singapore. Although it is most common among women, men can also be affected. Recognising the signs early and seeking timely medical advice are key steps toward better outcomes¹.

Regular breast self-examination (BSE) helps you become familiar with your breast tissue, making it easier to notice any unusual changes early². Performed monthly, BSE is a simple, cost-free habit that supports personal health awareness. While helpful, BSE does not replace clinical breast examinations and mammogram screenings, which remain vital for early detection.

A breast lump may feel firm, different from surrounding tissue, or have irregular edges. Because lumps can vary, any new or persistent change should be checked by a healthcare professional ³.

Other signs to watch for include nipple discharge (especially if blood-stained), inversion, skin dimpling or redness, and swelling near the armpit or collarbone ⁴,⁵. Persistent pain or scaling around the nipple should also prompt medical attention ⁶.

Consult a doctor as soon as possible if you notice any breast symptoms including, but not limited to, lumps, nipple discharge, overlying skin changes, pain/discomfort etc⁵. Even if imaging tests are normal, your doctor may recommend further evaluation for clarity and peace of mind².

Staying aware of the signs and performing regular self-checks can make a real difference. Combine self-awareness with routine clinical checks to safeguard your health.

To take proactive steps, HMI Health Screening offers a range of breast health packages from $368* to support early detection and awareness. Learn more about the available screenings here.

1. Lim, Z.L. et al. (2022) 'Mammography screening is associated with more favourable breast cancer tumour characteristics and better overall survival: case-only analysis of 3739 Asian breast cancer patients', BMC Medicine, 20(1), p.239. doi:10.1186/s12916-022-02440-y. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35922814/
2. Huang, N. et al. (2022) 'The Efficacy of Clinical Breast Exams and Breast Self-Exams in Detecting Malignancy or Positive Ultrasound Findings', Cureus, 14(2), p.e22464. doi:10.7759/cureus.22464. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35371742/
3. Menon, G., Alkabban, F. and Ferguson, T. (2025) 'Breast Cancer', in StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29493913/
4. Kulkarni, D. (2020) 'Clinical Presentations of Breast Disorders in Pregnancy and Lactation', Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, 1252, pp.33–39. doi:10.1007/978-3-030-41596-9_5. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32816260/
5. Athanasiou, A. et al. (2025) 'ESR Essentials: diagnostic work-up in patients with symptomatic breast disease-practice recommendations by the European Society of Breast Imaging', European Radiology, 35(2), pp.723–732. doi:10.1007/s00330-024-10980-5. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39085641/
6. Katsura, C. et al. (2022) 'Breast cancer: presentation, investigation and management', British Journal of Hospital Medicine (London), 83(2), pp.1-7. doi:10.12968/hmed.2021.0459. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35243878/

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