I’m Dr. Juliana Latif, co-founder of Fusion Medical at Wheelock Place. At 37, I had just welcomed my first child and completed a year of breastfeeding. As my husband and I prepared for IVF to expand our family, I noticed a lump during my regular breast self-examination—a habit I’d maintained monthly, even while nursing. I assumed it was just a blocked milk duct. But just a week before our IVF procedure, an ultrasound revealed something I never expected: I had breast cancer.

I thought breast cancer would not happen to me because I was young. Studies have shown that Breast Cancer is caused by a combination of risk factors, and being young does not necessarily mean you will not get Breast Cancer. Risk factors increase your chance of getting a disease, such as Breast Cancer, but having a risk factor doesn’t necessarily mean that you will get the disease.

Lifestyle-related Breast Cancer risk factors ( Knowing these risks allows you to make active decisions to reduce your risk)

1)  Alcohol Intake

Alcohol is clearly linked to an increased risk of breast cancer, and the risk rises with the amount consumed. One drink a day raises the risk by about 7–10%, while 2–3 drinks daily can increase it by around 20% compared to non-drinkers.

2) Being overweight or obese after menopause

Before menopause, a woman’s ovaries produce oestrogen for the body. After menopause, fat cells take over this role, therefore, women who are overweight after menopause will have more fat cells to produce more oestroge, thus increasing their risk of Breast Cancer.

3) Physical inactivity

There is increasing evidence that proves that physical inactivity can increase Breast Cancer risk, especially after menopause. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), adults aged 18-64 should have at least 150 minutes of moderate-intense aerobic physical activity or at least 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity throughout the week.

4) Reproductive history

Women who have their first pregnancy after the age of 30, or do not breastfeed, have a slightly higher breast cancer risk overall. Having multiple pregnancies and becoming pregnant at an early age reduces Breast Cancer risk.

5) Birth control

• Oral contraceptive pills: Most studies have linked oral contraceptive users with a higher risk of breast cancer compared to non-users. However, this risk goes back to normal after 10 years.
• Birth control injections: Depo-Provera is an injectable form of progesterone that is administered every 3 months for birth control. Some studies have linked this type of birth control with an increased risk of Breast Cancer, but some have not.
• Birth control implants, Intrauterine devices (IUDs), skin patches, vaginal rings: As these types of birth control use hormones they could theoretically influence Breast Cancer growth. This link has been studied more in hormone-releasing IUDs but less in implants, patches, and rings.

6) Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

There are 2 main types of HRT to control symptoms of menopause in women: Combined HRT, which has both oestrogen and progesterone, and Estrogen-only therapy. The use of combined HRT after menopause has been linked to increased Breast Cancer risk. This risk is typically seen after 4 years of use, with the risk decreasing after 5 years of stopping HRT. ^[1] Regular monitoring during treatment should also be done, and you should discuss this thoroughly with your doctor.

Breast cancer risk factors that cannot be changed

1) Getting Older

Breast cancer risk increases with age—most cases are diagnosed after 50, but the risk rises significantly from age 40. That’s why regular mammograms are recommended from 40 onwards. Our Singapore government has been very active in this area and does allow us to dip into our Medisave accounts or utilise their Screen for Life programmes.

2) Genetic Mutations

About 5–10% of breast cancers are linked to inherited gene mutations, most commonly BRCA1 and BRCA2. These genes usually help repair damaged DNA, but when mutated, they can lead to abnormal cell growth and cancer. (Think Angelina Jolie.)

On average, a woman (or man) with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation:

i)  has a 7 in 10 chance of getting Breast Cancer by age 80;

ii) is more likely to be diagnosed with Breast Cancer at a younger age; and

iii) has a higher risk of developing Ovarian Cancer and certain other types of cancer.

3) Having a family history of Breast Cancer

Overall, about 15% of women with breast cancer have a family history of the disease. Having a first-degree relative (mother, sister, or daughter) with Breast Cancer almost doubles a woman’s risk. Having 2 first-degree relatives increases the risk further by about 3-fold.

4) Age of menarche and menopause

Having an early onset of menstrual periods before age 12 and menopause after age 55 exposes women to hormones for longer, theoretically raising their risk of breast cancer.

5) Having dense breasts

Breasts that are dense have more connective tissue than fatty tissue, which can sometimes make it hard to see tumours on a mammogram. Women with dense breasts on a mammogram had a 1 ½ to 2 times increased risk of breast cancer compared to a woman with average breast density.

Breast cancer doesn’t discriminate by age, and early detection saves lives. My diagnosis at 38 made me realise how vital it is to raise awareness, especially among younger women. While some risk factors are beyond our control, many lifestyle choices aren’t. Knowledge empowers us to take charge of our health through regular screening and early action. Let my story be a reminder: don’t ignore the signs, no matter how young or healthy you feel. Your vigilance could save your life—and give you more time with the people and life you love.

For more information on breast cancer screening, read this article. [link to breast cancer screening article].

[1] The Women’s Health Initiative clinical trial was conducted in 2002

As 2024 comes to a close, it’s time to tie up any loose ends. Your end-of-year health screening is a great way to end your year. Going for a full body checkup can help you to keep tabs on your health, and inform you of what you need to look out for in the coming year. This screening process involves various tests to ensure comprehensive detection and prevention.

Why Are Health Screenings Important?

Health screenings are important in the early detection of any underlying diseases, even for individuals who feel that they are in the best of health. Such early detection allows for early intervention, which in turn leads to better outcomes and lowers the risk of serious complications in the future. They also act as a snapshot of your health at a specific moment in time. This can be helpful as a way to monitor your overall health, as it lets you keep an eye on conditions that you may be concerned about.

Who Should Go For Regular Health Screenings?

If you are above the age of 18 years old, regular health screenings can be a good way for you to keep track of your health. As you age, getting a full body check up will become more important as your risk of developing certain diseases increases.

For example, women over the age of 25 should opt for additional cervical cancer screening. Similarly, seniors should also opt for health screening packages that focus on common health risks faced by those among that age group. In addition, many health screening packages are now tailored towards specific individuals based on common diseases. Choose the best package for you based on your age, health concerns, and conditions you want to test for.

What Can Health Screening Detect?

With a wide variety of tests available, you have full control over what you wish to be screened for. Most health screening packages will test for common chronic conditions, such as obesity, hypertension, high blood cholesterol, diabetes, and even common cancers like colorectal, cervical, or breast cancer. Depending on your selected tests, it is possible for health screenings to detect diseases early. This can increase your chances of recovery, and reduce the risk of serious complications. Pick the right health screening package for you based on the conditions you want to check for.

Preparing For Your Health Screening

The Day Before Your Check Up

Follow the instructions given to you by your health screening provider closely, as they may affect the results of your screening. 

Fasting is important as it helps to achieve accurate results, specifically for blood tests and some ultrasounds. Refrain from consuming food and drinks for at least 8 hours before your health screening appointment. Plain water is allowed during your fast.

Bring along your identification documents, such as:

• Your NRIC/ Passport/ Employment Pass or Work Permit for verification purposes.
• Any recent medical reports and films
• Letter of Guarantee from your Insurance/ Company/Agency (if applicable)
• Authorisation letter, company letter or staff pass (applicable to corporate clients)

During Your Health Screening

Depending on the tests you have opted for, you may have to make additional preparations. You should receive additional instructions upon booking your health screening appointment. For example:

• Pap smears, urine, or stool tests should be done 5 – 7 days after the last day of your period. Do inform the staff if you are on your period during your health screening appointment as these tests cannot be carried out.
• If you are taking medications like beta-blockers, you should stop taking them 3 days before your health screening appointment.

After Your Check Up

Once you have completed your health screening, your health screening report will be released to you. It is advised to go through your report with your doctor, as they will be able to advise you on the next steps of your health journey.

If you get an “all clear”, congratulations! Continue to maintain your healthy lifestyle.

If you see any flagged issues, speak to your doctor to find out how you can follow up. By detecting any medical conditions early, you can increase your chances of recovery, and reduce the risk of serious complications later on.

Take Control of Your Health with Fusion Medical

As we grow older, health is truly wealth. Get peace of mind by scheduling your health screening at Fusion Medical. Our experienced team offers comprehensive screening services tailored to your needs. Early detection through regular screening saves lives. Contact Fusion Medical today to book your screening appointment. 

Start 2025 on the right foot by taking proactive steps towards managing your health. Stay informed, stay healthy. 

Visit Fusion Medical to start your screening journey today.

References

Are You Keeping Up With Health Screening?. (2022, November 15). Health Hub. 

https://www.healthhub.sg/live-healthy/are-you-keeping-up-with-health-screening

Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among women in Singapore, with over 2,000 women diagnosed annually. Fortunately, early detection through regular breast cancer screening significantly increases the chance of successful treatment and survival. Breast cancer screening aims to detect breast cancer early, often before symptoms appear, when treatment is most effective. The cornerstone of breast cancer screening includes various methods such as mammograms and ultrasound.

Breast Cancer Explained

Breast cancer is a type of cancer that develops from breast tissue. Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast tissue grow abnormally and uncontrollably. Early stages often present no symptoms. However, as the cancer progresses, you might experience lumps in the breast, changes in breast shape or size, nipple discharge, or skin dimpling. It is the most common cancer among women globally. Early detection through regular breast cancer screening significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and survival.

Components of Breast Cancer Screening

Breast cancer screening involves a series of examinations to detect breast cancer in its early stages, even before symptoms appear. Early detection allows for more effective treatment options and a higher chance of a full recovery. Here are the main components of breast cancer screening:

• Breast Self-Examination (BSE): A monthly self-check up where you examine your breasts for any lumps, changes in size or shape, or nipple discharge. Familiarising yourself with your breasts allows you to identify any abnormalities early. It is recommended to perform BSE once a month, ideally a few days after your menstrual period ends when the breasts are least likely to be swollen or tender.
• Clinical Breast Examination (CBE): A healthcare professional will visually and manually examine your breasts for lumps or other abnormalities. The guidelines for the frequency of having CBE vary based on individual risk factors and family history. Generally, for women in their 20s and 30s, having a clinical breast exam every 1-3 years is recommended. For women aged 40 and older, an annual CBE is often recommended.
  

Mammograms

A mammogram is an X-ray imaging technique specifically designed for examining breast tissue. It is the most common and effective method for breast cancer screening, particularly for women with dense breast tissue where lumps might be harder to detect through other methods. Mammograms can detect tumours that are too small to be felt. During a mammogram, a low-dose X-ray machine captures images of your breasts from different angles. To ensure clear pictures, the technologist will compress each breast between two plates momentarily. This compression might cause some discomfort, but it’s crucial for spreading out the tissue and obtaining optimal images. Breast cancer screening guidelines generally recommend starting regular mammograms at around the age of 50, although earlier screening may be advised for those at higher risk. 

Ultrasound

In the context of breast cancer screening, ultrasound is often used as a follow-up to mammography. Unlike mammograms, which use X-rays, ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the breast tissue. It is particularly useful for further evaluating areas identified as suspicious on a mammogram or for women with dense breast tissue.

Mammogram vs Ultrasound

A mammogram utilises low-dose X-rays to create detailed images of breast tissue, enabling radiologists to detect abnormalities such as lumps or calcifications that may indicate cancer. It is primarily used for screening purposes to identify potential issues early on. In contrast, an ultrasound employs high-frequency sound waves to generate images of breast tissue, which are useful for differentiating between solid masses and fluid-filled cysts. Ultrasounds are typically employed to further investigate areas of concern discovered during a mammogram or physical examination. They are especially valuable for women with dense breast tissue, where mammograms may be less effective in detecting abnormalities. Additionally, mammograms are generally more cost-effective compared to ultrasounds.

Why Breast Cancer Screening Matters

Regular breast cancer screening is crucial for early detection of breast cancer, as early detection generally leads to more treatment options and better outcomes. Regular screening helps in detecting cancer at an early stage when it is more likely to be treated successfully with less aggressive therapies. If you have concerns or questions about breast cancer screening, it is recommended to discuss them with your healthcare provider.

Choosing the Right Breast Cancer Screening Package

Considering the importance of early detection, selecting a comprehensive health screening package like those offered by Fusion Medical can be beneficial. Fusion Medical provides tailored health screening packages that include breast cancer screening options such as mammograms and ultrasound, ensuring thorough and proactive health management.

Conclusion

In conclusion, breast cancer screening is essential for every woman’s health regimen. By undergoing regular screening, including mammograms and possibly ultrasound, women can take proactive steps towards early detection and treatment of breast cancer. Don’t wait until it’s too late — prioritise your health today with comprehensive breast cancer screening at Fusion Medical. Remember, early detection saves lives. 

Schedule your breast cancer screening appointment at Fusion Medical today!

References

National Breast Cancer Foundation- Early Detection 

Singapore Cancer Society- Mammogram. (n.d.)

Some might think regular health screening is extra spending and not needed. But it is important. Regular health screening is not just a buzzword — it’s a crucial aspect of maintaining your health and well-being. Regular health screening involves undergoing routine medical tests to detect any potential health issues before they become serious problems. These screenings are vital as they enable early intervention and treatment, thereby improving chances of recovery and reducing healthcare costs.

What is Regular Health Screening About?

Regular health screening encompasses a series of tests and evaluations that are tailored to assess your overall health status. These screenings typically include checks for blood pressure, cholesterol levels, blood sugar levels, and various other biomarkers depending on your age, gender, and risk factors. By identifying health issues early on, you can work with your healthcare provider to manage or mitigate the risks effectively.

Why is Regular Health Screening Important?

The importance of regular health screening cannot be overstated. It serves as a proactive approach to managing your health, allowing for timely detection of diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and cancer. Early detection often means more treatment options and better outcomes. Moreover, it promotes a healthier lifestyle by raising awareness about personal health metrics and encouraging individuals to take charge of their well-being.

Understanding Time Commitments of Health Screening Sessions

When considering regular health screening, one common concern is the time commitment involved. Typically, the duration of a health screening session can vary depending on the complexity of the package chosen. Basic screenings often take around 1 to 2 hours, encompassing vital checks like blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and basic physical examinations. More extensive or customised packages may require additional time for specialised tests such as imaging studies or consultations with healthcare professionals. It is advisable to allocate sufficient time for your screening appointment to ensure thorough assessments and discussions about your health. Additionally, it’s important to note that results from these screenings provide valuable insights into your current health status, empowering you to make informed decisions about your well-being and future healthcare needs.

Choosing the Right Health Screening Package

When it comes to regular health screening, choosing the right package is crucial. At Fusion Medical, we offer various packages tailored to different needs. 

1. General Health Screening Packages

These packages are designed to cover a broad spectrum of health parameters suitable for the general population. They typically include basic tests like blood tests, urine analysis, and physical examinations. General packages are ideal for individuals looking for comprehensive yet standardised health assessments.

2. Customised Health Screening Packages

For those with specific health concerns or risk factors, customised packages offer a more targeted approach. These packages can include additional tests such as cancer markers, genetic testing, or specialised imaging studies. Customisation ensures that the screening addresses individual health risks more precisely.

Choosing the Right Provider: Fusion Medical

At Fusion Medical, we understand the importance of regular health screening in safeguarding your health. Our comprehensive screening packages are designed to cater to your specific needs and concerns. Whether you opt for a general package to cover essential health metrics or prefer a customised approach for a more detailed evaluation, our experienced healthcare professionals are here to guide you through every step of the process.

Take Action for Your Health Today

Don’t wait for symptoms to appear — take charge of your health with regular health screening at Fusion Medical. Our facilities and dedicated team ensure that you receive accurate results and personalised advice to maintain your well-being. Visit our website to explore our range of screening packages and schedule your appointment today.

Conclusion

In conclusion, regular health screening forms the cornerstone of preventive healthcare. By prioritising your health through routine screenings, you not only detect potential health issues early but also empower yourself to make informed decisions about your lifestyle and medical care. Choose the right screening package that aligns with your health goals and consult with healthcare professionals who prioritise your well-being. 

Start your journey towards a healthier future today with regular health screening at Fusion Medical.

References

Webmd- Checkups and Tests You Shouldn’t Miss 

Webmd- Get the Screening Tests You Need

The love-hate relationship between COVID-19 and family planning

COVID-19 has turned many of our lives upside down and most of us have had to make constant and necessary adjustments to day-to-day living.

Working from home is what hits most non-essential workers. Not having to rush to work every day and having more time to spend with loved ones seems godsent, but at the same time, it has also brought about friction resulting in family emergencies.

In Singapore, there is another type of emergency brewing. Emergency contraceptive pills and long-term oral contraceptives had hit a four-year high. 17,275 boxes of emergency contraceptive pills, which represents a jump of 45%, were sold in the year 2021 (Straits Times, 6th May 2021). Long-term oral contraceptives, on the other hand, increased by 16% to hit 164,438 boxes.

You are required to consult a doctor to get a prescription for these medications.

What can be the possible reasons for this phenomenon? Some are offered:

1)     Possible job losses and job instability

2)     Accommodation uncertainty. Imagine 85% of BTO projects face potential delays of 6 to 9 months, affecting 43,000 households (Straits Times, 7th April 2021). Private projects face similar delay of 6 to 9 months (Straits Times, 23 July 2020)

3)     Usual medicine supply has been cut off as one is unable to travel overseas to get cheaper alternatives

4)     The increase in adoption of telemedicine services. Women tend to be the ones getting the medicine and this shift to telemedicine appears to reduce the embarrassment in requesting for the medicine which can be delivered to their doorstop

5)     The opposite can happen. More time spent indoors can spark on a series of spontaneous activities including love making.

While there are other birth control options available, the medication possibly offers a less invasive and more affordable option to the masses. The monthly costs start from S$30 depending on the medication selected. However, do consult our female doctor if you have any queries.

During this period, do stay healthy and check on your health status.

“The general population, particularly younger women, believes breast cancer only affects older women. I used to be one of them until breast cancer struck me at the age of 38 years. In reality, breast cancer is increasingly affecting premenopausal women and those under 40, making it crucial to reach out to this group.” – Dr. Juliana

Young And Planning For A Second Baby

I am Dr Juliana Latif, the co-founder of Fusion Medical, which is a one-stop health screening practice located at Wheelock Place (Orchard).

I delivered my firstborn son at the age of 37 years old and put myself through 1 year of breastfeeding. The second month after stopping breastfeeding, my husband and I decided to continue with our family planning and scheduled our IVF procedure for our second child.

Little did I expect that my regular Breast Self Examination (BSE) done once a month would save my life. I detected a lump in my left breast when I was still breastfeeding my son, thinking that it was just a blocked milk duct. After all, I was below the age of 40. An ultrasound check on this lump just a week before the scheduled IVF procedure turned my world upside down.

Importance Of Breast Self-Examination (BSE)

Because of my own personal experience, Fusion Medical has introduced an education component on how to conduct your own BSE in most of our Health Screening packages.

When should one start?

The Singapore Cancer Society recommends that women as young as age 20 can start doing monthly breast self-examinations.

BSE should be timed on a monthly basis, 7-10 days from the start of your menstruation. If you have stopped menstruating, you can do your BSE on the same date each month.

*The images above were extracted from the Breast Cancer Foundation (Singapore). The full PDF file on breast self-examination can be found here.

What Happens When I Detect a Lump?

Additional checks will be performed upon discovery of a lump. These typically include breast ultrasound and /or mammography. You may wish to consider upgrading your mammography to a 3-dimensional one and to include an ultrasound scan if you have a history of dense breasts.

See more information here.

Does Finding A Lump Mean Breast Cancer?

Not always. While suspicious lumps often require a biopsy, most breast biopsies do not result in a cancer diagnosis. Even benign conditions may need follow-up and treatment.

If cancer is found, a detailed report will determine the next steps, identifying tumour type, growth rate, and treatment approach. Early detection is key. I initially ignored my lump, but I was fortunate to catch it in time for treatment. I still remember the heartbreak of kissing my one-year-old goodbye before a PET/CT scan to check if my cancer had spread. The two-hour wait felt like a lifetime—until I was told the cancer was localised.

My lump turned out to be invasive ductal carcinoma. But many breast conditions are non-cancerous, such as:

• Non-proliferative lesions: the most common being breast cysts, and the increase in breast cancer risk is very small
• Proliferative lesions without atypia (e.g., fibroadenoma, sclerosing adenosis): These lesions have excessive growth or cells in the ducts or lobules of the breast but do not look very abnormal. They include ductal hyperplasia (without atypia), fibroadenoma, and sclerosing adenosis.
• Proliferative lesions with atypia (e.g., atypical hyperplasia, intraductal papillomas): In these conditions, the cells in the ducts or lobules of the breast tissue grow excessively, and some of them no longer look normal. These types of lesions include ductal hyperplasia, atypical lobular hyperplasia, and intraductal papillomas. Breast cancer risk is about 4 to 5 times higher than normal.

While benign, these conditions can still increase long-term risk and require regular monitoring.

Breast Cancer Screening Options

• Mammogram:

  A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray picture of the breast. It can detect the presence of cancerous lumps even before they can be felt with the hand. Screening mammograms are routinely used to screen for breast cancer in women who have no specific symptoms. Diagnostic mammograms are done after suspicious results, abnormal physical findings, or screening mammograms. The diagnostic mammogram is used to determine if these suspicious or abnormal findings are indicative of breast cancer. Compared to screening mammograms, diagnostic mammograms are more detailed.

  What is digital breast tomosynthesis?
  Digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) is 3D mammography that allows the breast to be examined 1 layer at a time instead of 1 flat image. DBT may be used together with 2D digital mammography as an additional tool in screening. To the patient, the DBT experience is very similar to a 2D mammography and the X-ray dose remains very low and under the guidelines of the FDA. To the radiologist who is the specialist reading the images, the DBT provides additional views of the breast to better analyse the breast tissue.

• Ultrasound:

  A breast ultrasound is a scan that uses sound waves. The breast tissue deflects these waves, causing echoes, which provide a picture of the breast tissue. It has the ability to differentiate between a mass that is filled with liquid and a solid mass. Ultrasounds are helpful when a lump is felt, and the images can be used to further evaluate the abnormality. It also helps to measure the exact size and location of the lump and analyse the surrounding tissue.

• MRI:

  If initial diagnostic imaging is inconclusive, a breast MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) may be recommended. MRI uses magnetic energy and radio waves (not radiation) through the breast tissue to create a detailed picture, which allows for the distinction between normal and diseased tissue.

For more details, check out this article.

Diagnosis Is Just The Beginning

I cannot overstate how essential strong support is at the start of a cancer journey. For me, my greatest pillars were my husband and my mother. My treatment began during the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, and with travel restrictions in place, my overseas family couldn’t be by my side. Still, my mother braved the quarantine rules to come to Singapore, and each day she lovingly boiled chicken soup for me—truly the highlight of my day. My other daily joy was spending time with my husband and son. Despite how unwell I felt during chemotherapy, my husband made sure we went for a walk every single day. Being in nature helped keep my mind and body strong.

Returning to work was tough, as my self-confidence had taken a hit. But with the unwavering support of my loved ones and fellow survivors, I stayed positive and found my way back to a new version of normal.

As a primary care doctor, I’m grateful to use my own experience to help others, reminding my patients every day about the power of early detection and timely screening. My journey has humbled me, and I now count each new day as a true blessing.

Overview

Chronic diseases are medical conditions that last 1 year or more. They will require ongoing medical attention or limit activities of daily living or both. 

Conditions such as heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes are common chronic diseases in Singapore, and risk behaviours relating to lifestyle can contribute the development of these conditions: 

• Tobacco use and exposure to secondhand smoke
• Poor nutrition, including diets low in fruits and vegetables and high in sodium and saturated fats
• Lack of physical activity
• Excessive alcohol use

As chronic diseases are progressive, they can affect the quality of life and be a financial burden on their loved ones.

Common Chronic Diseases in Singapore

Globally, chronic diseases are significant causes of disability and death. In Singapore, common chronic diseases that affect Singaporeans include hypertension, diabetes mellitus, high cholesterol and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)​​​

Hypertension or high blood pressure refers to the condition in which blood is pumped around the body at an abnormally high pressure.

Blood pressure (BP) is described by two numbers and is represented in mmHg (millimetres of mercury), a measure of pressure. For instance, a BP of 120/80 means that the systolic BP is 120mmHg while the diastolic BP is 80mmHg.

You can be considered pre-hypertensive if your systolic BP is 130 – 139mmHg and your diastolic BP is 80-89mmHg. At this stage, you would generally be advised to modify your lifestyle to control the blood pressure.

You will be diagnosed with hypertension if your systolic BP is 140mmHg or more, your diastolic BP is 90mmHg or more, or both. In Singapore, almost 22% from 30 to 69 years old have hypertension. 

Causes and Risk Factors

In 95% of cases, the cause of hypertension is unknown. In the rest, hypertension may be caused by kidney disease, the narrowing of certain blood vessels or other systemic illnesses.

Risk factors that increase the chances of developing hypertension include obesity and diabetes.

Diabetes Mellitus​​

Diabetes is a condition in which the blood glucose levels in the body remain persistently higher than normal. In Singapore, 9% of Singapore residents aged 18 to 69 years old are affected by diabetes1.

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that allows your body cells to use blood glucose (sugar) for energy. Firstly, carbohydrates are converted into glucose before they are absorbed into our bloodstream. Examples of food rich in carbohydrates include rice, pasta, and bread. The pancreas then releases insulin to move the glucose from the bloodstream into the body cells for use or storage. 

People with diabetes are unable to fully utilize the glucose in their bloodstream because they either lack insulin in the body or their body cells have developed resistance to insulin.

Types of Diabetes

There are 3 major types of diabetes:

Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is caused by a lack of insulin due to damaged pancreatic cells. It is typically diagnosed in children or young adults although it can occur at any age.

Hence, insulin is required for treatment.

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the insulin produced is not enough or not effective (if the body cells develop resistance to insulin). It occurs more frequently in people above 40 years old, particularly those who are overweight and physically inactive.

It can be controlled with proper diet and exercise. However, most diabetics also require oral medication.

Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes occurs in about 2-5% of all pregnancies. It typically affects women who were not diagnosed to have diabetes previously.

While blood sugar usually returns to normal levels after delivery of the baby, 50% of the mothers develop Type 2 Diabetes after delivery. These mothers are advised to lower their risk by achieving a healthy body weight after delivery.

High Cholesterol (Hyperlipidemia)

High cholesterol is a condition in which fatty deposits develop in your blood vessels. Eventually, these deposits grow, making it difficult for enough blood to flow through your arteries. 

Occasionally, these deposits can break, forming a clot that can cause a heart attack or stroke.

Close to 34% of Singapore residents have raised cholesterol1. This has increased by 8% over 7 years.

Causes and Risk Factors

Cholesterol is carried through your body, attached to protein. This combination of proteins and cholesterol is called a lipoprotein. 

There are 2 types of lipoproteins:

• Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or “bad” cholesterol builds up in the walls of your arteries, making them hard and narrow.
• High-density lipoprotein (HDL) or “good” cholesterol picks up excess cholesterol and takes it back to your liver.

High cholesterol can be inherited, but is often the result of unhealthy lifestyle choices which make it preventable and treatable.

Factors that can increase the risk of “bad” cholesterol include:

• Poor diet: Eating saturated fats (found in animal products) and trans fats (found in commercially baked cookies, crackers, etc.) can raise your cholesterol level. Other foods high in cholesterol such as red meat and full-fat dairy products could also increase your cholesterol level.
• Obesity: Having a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or greater puts you at risk of developing high cholesterol.
• Lack of exercise: Exercise helps boost your body’s HDL (“good” cholesterol).
• Smoking: Cigarette smoking damages the walls of your blood vessels, making them more prone to accumulate fatty deposits.
• Age: Your risk of developing high cholesterol increases as you age. For instance, your liver becomes less able to remove LDL cholesterol.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)​​

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a term used to refer to chronic respiratory diseases including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. In these conditions, there is an obstruction to airflow in the airway of the lungs, thus causing breathing difficulties.

In chronic bronchitis, there is persistent inflammation of the airways (bronchi) of the lungs. Meanwhile, in emphysema, there is damage to the smaller airways (bronchioles) and air sacs (alveoli) of the lungs. Most people with COPD have a mix of both these conditions.

Causes and Risk Factors

Smoking is the main cause of COPD. It damages the air sacs, airways and the lining of your lungs. Injured lungs have trouble moving air in and out, making it hard to breathe.

Air pollution including polluted work conditions may also contribute or worsen COPD.

The Role of Health Screening 

While many of these chronic diseases don’t show any symptoms, especially in their early stages, they can result in disabling and life-threatening complications. Hence, health screening is imperative as it can help you find out if you have a medical condition even if you don’t display any signs or symptoms. 

For particular conditions, health screening can even help prevent them from happening in the first place. This is done through discovering and treating any abnormalities that could later develop into a disease.

Early detection and treatment can help you take control of your health and change the prognosis of the disease. Prioritize your health and book an appointment after checking out our health screening packages today!