About Women Gynaecological Cancers
What is Uterine Cancer?
Uterine cancer, also known as endometrial cancer, is a cancer that starts in the endometrium, the inner lining of the uterus (womb). It is predominantly due to prolonged exposure to an excess of the female hormone called oestrogen. Endometrial cancer occurs when the cells of the endometrium start to grow too rapidly. The lining of the uterus may thicken in certain places. These areas of thickness may form a mass of tissue called a tumor.
What is Ovarian Cancer?
A woman has two ovaries, which are part of the female reproductive system. Each is the size of a walnut and located at the pelvis on either side of the womb (uterus). The ovaries produce eggs and the female hormones, estrogen and progesterone.
What is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical Cancer is the cancer of the neck of the womb, which is the cervix. The female reproductive system consists of ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus (womb) and the vagina. The cervix is the neck of the womb and is visible during a vaginal examination. The cervix is made up of millions of tiny cells. Sometimes, changes can occur to these cells without you knowing it. These changes, if left untreated, could develop into Cervical Cancer. HPV infections can cause several cancers including Cervical Cancer. Virtually all cervical cancer cases (99%) are linked to genital infection with HPV.
HPV Vaccination
HPV vaccination can prevent infection by certain types of HPV, including types that are linked to HPV-related cancers. The vaccine is recommended for use in young women age 9 – 26 years old. To be most effective, the vaccine should be given before the first sexual exposure. Watch this video to learn more about HPV Vaccination:
Cervical Cancer Screening
Regular Cervical Cancer Screening can help prevent cancer and also allows for the early detection of the disease, leading to better treatment outcomes. There are two types of tests used for cervical cancer screening: HPV Test and Pap Test.
Cervical cancer screeningis a fast and simple procedure, where an instrument will be gently inserted into your vagina. A soft brush is then used to collect some cells from your cervix. These cells will be sent to a laboratory for testing.
Where should I have my screening done?
To help reduce the incidence of cervical cancer, Singapore Cancer Society (SCS) provides Cervical Cancer Screening at no cost to eligible females who meet the following criteria:
HPV Test
• Singaporean or Permanent Resident
• Aged 30 years and above who have previously engaged in sexual intercourse
• Not pregnant
• Screening done 14 days from 1st day of menstrual period
• Recommended to be screened once in 5 years
Pap Test
• Singaporean or Permanent Resident
• Aged 25 to 29 years who have previously engaged in sexual intercourse
• Not pregnant
• Screening done 14 days from 1st day of menstrual period
• Recommended to be screened once in 3 years
Cervical cancer is highly preventable and curable when detected and treated early through regular screening.
To find out more, call 1800-727-3333 or register your interest at http://bit.ly/WGCAM20ScreeningReg
Make an Appointment
In view of the COVID-19 situation, please note that Screening and HPV vaccination services at the SCS Clinic @ Bishan have been temporarily suspended in line with the government’s advisory. We seek your kind understanding and cooperation as we implement the above necessary action for your health and well-being. However, you can still indicate your interest at https://bit.ly/WGCAM20ScreeningReg or calling us at 1800-727-3333.
Events
Women's Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month Videos
Keep a look out for our upcoming series of Women’s Gynaecological Cancer videos on
our Facebook page and stand to win attractive prizes!
Video schedule:
- Ovarian Cancer & Prevention 8 May & 22 May 2020
- Uterine Cancer & Prevention 5 Jun & 19 Jun 2020
- Cervical Cancer & Prevention 3 Jul & 17 Jul 2020
Mother's Day Contest
Share with us your story of how special your mum is and stand to win one of the three sets of Mother’s Day gift worth over $200 specially delivered to your mum. To participate in this contest, submit a photo of you and your mum and tell us why your mum is special in 100 words or less at https://bit.ly/mothersdaycontest2020. The contest ends on 4 May 2020, Monday, at 11.59pm and is open to all Singapore citizens and permanent residents.
