A Comprehensive Guide to Breast Cancer Screening: From Blood Tests to Mammograms 2025

Breast cancer remains a significant health concern for women throughout the globe. In Singapore, it stands as the most common type of cancer among women. The Singapore Cancer Registry [1] reported that breast cancer accounts for nearly one in three cancer diagnoses among women in the country. This translates to 29.7% [2] of all female cancers, with approximately 1,100 new cases diagnosed annually. However, what is even more concerning is the fact that roughly 270 women [3] succumb to the disease each year.

Due to its prevalence, early detection through regular screening plays a critical role in improving the survival rate. In fact, research shows that early diagnosis can increase the chances of successful treatment by as much as 90% [4].

The aim of breast cancer screening is to identify the cancer at its earliest stage, ideally before symptoms are noticeable. By detecting cancer early, women have more treatment options available, and a greater likelihood of successful outcomes. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the breast cancer screening options available today, from blood tests to mammograms, and how each method can contribute to early detection.

Understanding Breast Cancer Screening

Breast cancer screening refers to the preventive measures taken to detect breast cancer before any symptoms emerge. Unlike diagnostic tests that are performed when there are visible signs, or symptoms of breast cancer, screening is done on seemingly healthy individuals, especially among those with a family history of breast cancer. The primary objective of screening is to identify cancer early, ideally when it is confined to the breast tissue, and has not spread to other parts of the body.

Regular breast cancer screening is essential for all women, particularly those over the age of 40 years old, or those with a family history of breast cancer. However, women with other high-risk factors as listed below may need to begin screening early:

• Age — as women age, the risk of breast cancer increases, with most cases diagnosed after the age of 50 [5].
• Dense breast — women with dense breasts [6] are more at risk of breast cancer, with the density making it harder to see tumours on a mammogram.
• Family history — a family history [8] of breast cancer increases the possibility of breast cancer.
  
• Genetics — inherited mutations to certain genes (BRCA1, and BRCA2 [9]) can increase the likelihood of developing breast cancer.
• Menstrual history — women who started menstruating before 12 years old, or started menopause after 55 years old are more at risk of developing breast cancer due to the long exposure to hormones [11].
• Previous breast cancer history — women with a previous history of breast cancer [12] are at risk of relapsing. Meanwhile, women with a history of benign breast diseases like lobular carcinoma in situ, or atypical ductal hyperplasia, are more prone to developing breast cancer.
• Previous radiation treatment — prior exposure to radiation [13] due to treatment to the chest, or breasts before 30 years old increases the risk of breast cancer.
• Alcohol consumption — a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer increases if she consumes alcohol at an excessive rate [14].
• Lifestyle — women who lead a sedentary, or not physically active lifestyle are at an increased risk of developing breast cancer.
• Weight — women who are considered overweight or obese [15] after going through menopause are more likely to develop breast cancer compared to those who maintain a healthy weight.

It is important to understand that consistent screening can significantly improve a woman’s chance of beating the cancer, as early detection may also include the following benefits:

• Early intervention and treatment
• More treatment options available
• Better outcomes and results
• Lowers the necessity for more aggressive treatments
• Higher quality of life post-recovery
• Reduces the mortality rate

Be that as it may, it is crucial to choose the appropriate screening method based on individual risk factors, age, and lifestyle. In fact, working closely with a licensed, and qualified medical practitioner will be advantageous, as they can help tailor a screening plan that best suits each woman’s needs.

Breast Cancer Screening Methods

There are various screening methods available today, each with its own unique benefits, and limitations. These include blood tests, imaging techniques like mammograms, ultrasounds, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for those at high risk. While there are many options available, the choice of screening method often depends on the individual’s risk profile, and medical history. The following briefly describes each method:

• Self examination — self examination involves checking your own breasts for lumps, changes in breast size or shape, nipple discharge or discolouration.
• Clinical breast exams — clinical examinations are performed by a trained doctor, who will check for breast abnormalities or lumps.
• Blood tests — Conventional blood tests can be undergone to detect breast cancer markers, as well as innovative advancements, such as Mastocheck (link to service page), which identifies specific biomarkers linked to early-stage breast cancer for earlier detection.
• Imaging tests — Imaging tests, such as mammograms, ultrasounds and magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs).
  

Each method plays a different role in breast cancer detection, and often, a combination of these tests may be necessary for comprehensive screening.

Blood Tests

Blood tests are often used to detect early signs of breast cancer. These tests work by identifying specific proteins, or markers, that cancer cells release into the bloodstream. To give an example, markers like CA 15-3, and CEA can sometimes indicate the presence of cancer, although these markers are not exclusively specific to breast cancer.

Even so, blood tests are valued for their non-invasive nature. They can be conducted quickly, with results available in a shorter time frame compared to imaging techniques. However, while blood tests can provide valuable information, they are not typically used as standalone diagnostic tools. Their sensitivity, and specificity are limited, meaning that they are better suited as supplementary tests rather than primary screening tools.

That being said, blood tests are particularly useful for monitoring patients who have already been diagnosed with cancer to track the effectiveness of treatment, or detect recurrences. Be that as it may, as a screening tool, blood tests should be paired with other methods like imaging for a more accurate diagnosis.

The Role of Mastocheck in Early Screening

At Ardennes Healthcare, our Mastocheck Early Breast Cancer Screening (link to service page) is a blood test that analyses specific protein biomarkers that are indicative of breast cancer. 

Unlike traditional blood tests that focus solely on inherited mutations, Mastocheck utilises advanced proteomic analysis to identify tumour-related proteins which are released by cancer cells and can serve as early indicators of tumour presence. This test is non-invasive, requiring only a blood sample, and can identify cancerous changes (disease-specific expression patterns) before they become visible through imaging. Hence, proteomics-based early diagnosis technology, like Mastocheck, greatly maximises diagnostic accuracy — with about 77% accuracy for stage 1-2 breast cancer.

However, it is essential to understand that while various blood tests can provide valuable insights into cancer risk, it is not a replacement for imaging techniques. Rather, it serves as a complementary tool, especially for those at higher risk of cancer (shows 10%-30% higher sensitivity compared to Mammography alone). Knowing your current cancer status through Mastocheck can help navigate the decision-making process regarding the frequency of follow-up screenings or the need for further diagnostic imaging. 

The benefits of Mastocheck

The benefits of Mastocheck screening include:

• Early detection — Mastocheck enables the identification of breast cancer in its earliest stages, even before it becomes detectable through conventional imaging methods.
• Non-invasive procedure — Mastocheck only requires a small blood sample, offering a stress-free and comfortable screening process.
• High accuracy — It utilises advanced molecular diagnostic techniques, which allows it to detect specific cancer-related biomarkers, ensuring precise and reliable results.
• Enhanced detection for dense breasts — Mastocheck is especially effective for women with dense breast tissue where traditional mammograms may fall short in detecting. It delivers 10% – 30% greater sensitivity compared to a mammogram alone.
• Optimised outcomes — Early detection with Mastocheck increases the likelihood of successful treatment outcomes and reduces the need for more aggressive treatments.
• Radiation-free — By detecting cancer biomarkers without using radiation, Mastocheck provides a safer alternative for breast cancer screening.
• Accessibility — Suitable for younger women (ages 20 – 40), pregnant women, and those with breast implants or dense breast tissue. 

Mammograms

Mammograms (link to service page) remain one of the most reliable screening tools for early breast cancer detection. This method involves using low-dose X-rays to examine breast tissue for any signs of tumours, or abnormal growths. For women aged 40, and above, regular mammograms are often recommended, as the risk of developing breast cancer increases with age.

A screening mammogram is typically done once every one to two years for women at average risk, while those at higher risk may need to undergo mammograms more frequently.

The benefits of mammograms are well-documented. In fact, they have been shown to reduce breast cancer mortality by enabling earlier diagnosis. However, some women may find the procedure uncomfortable due to the compression of breast tissue required for clear imaging. Additionally, mammograms do expose women to a small amount of radiation, but the risk is generally outweighed by the benefits of early detection. 

Ultrasound and MRI: Complementary Tools

While mammograms are effective for most women, certain cases may require additional imaging techniques, like ultrasounds, and MRIs.

Ultrasound imaging (link to service page) is particularly useful for women with dense breast tissue, where mammograms may not be as effective. Dense tissue can obscure tumours, making them harder to detect. Ultrasound also works using sound waves to create images of the breast tissues, allowing for better visualisation of abnormalities that may not appear on a mammogram.

Meanwhile, MRI is an advanced imaging technique, typically for high-risk individuals. MRIs use magnetic fields, and radio waves to create detailed images of the breast, making it possible to detect cancers that might be missed by mammograms, or ultrasounds. In fact, women with a strong family history of breast cancer, or those with known genetic mutations like BRCA1, or BRCA2 may benefit from regular MRIs in addition to mammograms.

Both ultrasounds and MRIs serve as complementary tools to mammograms, and are usually recommended when additional clarity is needed.

A comprehensive approach: Mammogram with Mastocheck

The importance of early detection in breast cancer

Early detection of breast cancer greatly improves survival rates and treatment outcomes. In fact, there is a 5-year relative survival rate for localised (tumour is confined to breast tissue) breast cancer is approximately 99%. This makes early detection of breast cancer and timely treatment paramount. 

Why combine Mammogram and Mastocheck?

• Mastocheck — Mastocheck is a blood-based test that detects specific biomarkers linked to breast cancer, and offers 77% accuracy for stage 1-2 breast cancer screening. In contrast, conventional single marker CA15-3 offers an accuracy of 10%. In comparison, Mastocheck has a higher sensitivity and more accuracy in early-stage detection.
• Mammogram — A Mammogram is a widely used imaging test that plays an important role in breast cancer detection, and is highly effective at visualising microcalcifications and small masses and tumours in the breast that can indicate early-stage cancers. This makes it a reliable, non-invasive way to detect cancer early and improve treatment outcomes. 

Combining a Mammogram with Mastocheck allows your doctor to detect structural changes in breast tissue and molecular changes in biomarkers that indicate early-stage breast cancer, offering a comprehensive significantly reducing the chances of false negatives. 

Undergoing a Mastocheck blood test can also reduce your need for unnecessary procedures and additional stress. This is because it provides additional confirmation when ambiguous findings are detected via the mammogram, helping differentiate between the benign and malignant abnormalities in the breast.

What to Expect During a Breast Cancer Screening

We understand that undergoing breast cancer can be a daunting experience. At Ardennes Healthcare, we strive to help alleviate anxiety, and ensure you are well-prepared. Here, we break down the step-by-step for our general breast cancer screening procedures that are available at our healthcare facility.

Initial Consultation and Pre-Screening Assessment

Your breast cancer screening journey typically begins with an initial consultation with our general physician. During the consultation, our doctor will review your medical history, including any personal, or family history of breast cancer. They may ask about your lifestyle, any current symptoms you are experiencing, and other risk factors that may impact your screening plan. This consultation is essential as it ensures that the screening method chosen is appropriate for your specific risk profile.

Blood Tests (if applicable)

For those opting for blood tests like the Mastocheck screening, the procedure is straightforward and quick. Our nurse will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm. The process typically takes less than 10 minutes, and is relatively painless, with only a minor prick sensation. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis to detect potential cancer markers. While you are permitted to go home immediately after the procedure is done, results are generally available within a few days to a week.

Mammogram

If your screening includes a mammogram, you will be asked to change into a hospital gown, and remove any jewellery or clothing above the waist. Our technician will then position your breast on a flat surface, and gently compress it with a clear plastic plate. This compression is necessary to get a clear image of the breast tissue, and may cause some discomfort, but it only lasts for a few seconds. The technician will take images from different angles, usually two per breast. A simple mammogram process takes about 20 minutes to complete.

After the imaging is complete, the radiologist will review the images for any signs of abnormalities. It may take a few days for you to receive your results. In the event any suspicious findings are detected, further diagnostic tests may be recommended.

Ultrasound

For women with dense breast tissue, or if additional imaging is needed, an ultrasound may be recommended. During an ultrasound, you will lie down while a technician applies a gel to your breast. A handheld device called a transducer is moved over the area to capture images using sound waves. This procedure is painless and takes about 15 to 30 minutes.

Post-Screening Consultation

Once all of the tests are completed, you may have a follow-up consultation to discuss the results. If abnormalities are found, our doctor provider will guide you through the next steps, which may include additional diagnostic tests, biopsies, or further imaging to confirm the presence of cancer.

How to Prepare for Breast Cancer Screening

Being well-prepared can help ensure a smooth, and effective screening experience. To help you prepare for your breast screening, here is a detailed guideline to get you started.

Step 1: Scheduling Your Appointment

When scheduling an appointment for breast screening, do remember to pick a date at least a week after your menstrual period. This is due to the fact that your breasts are less likely to be tender during this time. Doing so can help minimise discomfort during the procedure. Additionally, for women undergoing blood tests or other non-imaging tests, there are no specific timing requirements.

Step 2: Dress Comfortably

On the day of your screening, wear a two-piece outfit so that you can easily remove your top piece of clothing for imaging procedures. Avoid wearing deodorant, antiperspirant, powders, or lotions on your underarms or breasts, as these products can show up on mammogram images as white spots, potentially leading to false alarms.

Step 3: What to Bring

It is important to bring your identification, health insurance information, and any prior imaging results if you have been screened before. Having these past records allows our doctors, and radiologists to compare images, and detect any subtle changes in breast tissue over time.

Step 4: Pain Management

If you are concerned about discomfort during a mammogram, consider taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, about an hour before your appointment. This can help alleviate any pain associated with breast compression. However, always speak with your doctor before taking any medication to prevent any complications.

Step 5: Preparing for an MRI

If you are scheduled for an MRI, inform the technician if you have any metal implants, pacemakers, or allergies, particularly to contrast dyes. You may need to fast for a few hours before the test if a contrast dye is being used. Additionally, do remember to remove any metal objects, such as jewellery, belts, or watches, before the scan, as this can disrupt the imaging process.

Step 6: Mental Preparation

For some women, the thought of undergoing a breast cancer screening can be anxiety-inducing, especially if it is their first time. But do remind yourself that these screenings are proactive steps toward maintaining your health, rather than dwelling on the possibility of malignancy. Some tips that can help ease your nerves before your appointment include deep breathing exercises, or listening to calming music. In fact, if asking questions can help reduce your anxiety, then do feel free to speak with our doctors to help you be more mentally prepared for the screening.

Step 7: Post-Screening Care

After your screening, there are generally no restrictions, and you can resume your normal activities immediately. However, if you experience any soreness after a mammogram, applying a cold compress can help reduce discomfort. For blood tests, keep the bandage on for a few hours to avoid bruises.

By following these preparation steps, and understanding what to expect, you can make your breast cancer screening experience as comfortable, and stress-free as possible.

Breast Cancer Screening Methods & Cost at a Glance

Feature	Mammogram	Ultrasound	Mastocheck
Purpose	Standard screening for breast cancer.	Complements mammograms and can be used to evaluate dense breast tissue.	Blood test for early detection of specific biomarkers for breast cancer.
Recommended for	Women over the age of 40 years old or have risk factors for breast cancer.	Women with dense breasts, palpable lumps or other possible breast cancer indicators.	Early detection or supplemental screening.
Technology	X-ray imaging, may sometimes include a contrast for Contrast Enhanced Mammogram (CEM).	Utilises targeted ultrasound waves to visualise breast tissue structures.	Blood sample analysed for cancer markers.
Sensitivity	High sensitivity, but may not be as effective for dense breast tissue	High sensitivity, but may miss small or early cancers.	High sensitivity and provides risk indication for early cancers, but not the specific tumour location. Good early-warning tool.
Radiation exposure	Low-dose radiation.	None.	None.
Cost	From $99	From $140	From $170

Take Charge of Your Breast Health Today

Breast cancer screening is a powerful tool that can save lives by catching cancer early, often before any symptoms appear. However, deciding on the right screening plan is a highly personalised process that takes into account factors such as age, family history, genetic predisposition, and lifestyle. Understanding your options empowers you to make informed decisions about your health, and overall well-being.

For women in their 40s, annual mammograms are often recommended. However, younger women with elevated risk factors may benefit from additional testing options, such as Mastocheck, or breast ultrasounds. It goes without saying that consulting with a licensed, experienced physician is essential to developing a sound screening strategy tailored to your specific needs. A personalised plan not only maximises the effectiveness of early detection, but also offers peace of mind, knowing that you are taking proactive steps to protect your health.

At Ardennes Healthcare, we are dedicated to empowering women with comprehensive breast health services. We offer advanced screening options, including the Mastocheck test, to ensure you receive the best possible care. Our team is committed to providing personalised guidance every step of the way, helping you achieve optimal outcomes.

Remember, early detection is key. Take control of your breast health today! Schedule your screening appointment (link to contact us page) with us, and embark on a proactive journey toward wellness.

References

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