Mammogram
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Singapore — but it is also one where early detection makes a very real difference to outcomes. A mammogram remains the most effective screening tool available for catching changes before you had ever feel them.
Understanding Mammograms
A mammogram is an X-ray image of your breast tissue, used to detect early signs of breast cancer — often years before a lump would be large enough to feel. There are two main types:
2D mammogram: your breast is positioned and gently compressed between two imaging plates, with images taken from the top-down and side angles.
3D mammogram: Multiple thin layers of x-ray images are taken of your breasts. They are combined to form a 3D image of your breasts.
This type of mammogram may be better for those with dense breast tissue, improving detection of abnormalities for these women.
Singapore's national mammography screening program, recommends annual screening for women ages 40-49 and biennial (every 2 years) screening for women ages 50-69.
How Eden Women's Health Can Help
Personalised screening guidance
Helping you decide when to start, and how often, based on your age, family history, and individual risk factors — not just a generic age cut-off.
Referral and result interpretation
Coordinating your mammogram and walking you through the results in plain language, with clear next steps if anything needs further investigation.
Integration with your broader care
Breast health sits alongside your other screening needs — see our Gynaecological Cancer Screening and Screening by age pages for the fuller picture.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should I start getting mammograms?
Singapore’s national mammography screening program, recommends annual screening for women ages 40-49 and biennial (every 2 years) screening for women ages 50-69.
Does a mammogram hurt?
There is brief compression of breast tissue during imaging, which some women find uncomfortable but not typically painful. It lasts only a few seconds per image.
What if my mammogram shows something abnormal?
Most abnormal findings are not cancer — but do need further assessment, such as additional imaging or a biopsy, to confirm. We will walk you through exactly what a finding means and what happens next, without leaving you waiting anxiously for answers.
I have a family history of breast cancer — should I start screening earlier?
Possibly. A family history, particularly a first-degree relative diagnosed at a younger age, may mean earlier or more frequent screening is appropriate. Let us know your family history so we can advise accordingly.
Should I still do breast self-checks if I get regular mammograms?
Yes — mammograms and self-awareness of what is normal for your breasts work together, not as substitutes for one another. Let us know about any changes you notice between screenings.
Schedule An Appointment
Breast health deserves proactive attention, not guesswork. Book a consultation to discuss the right mammogram screening plan for you.