Singapore Cancer Society shared a post on LinkedIn:
“Let’s talk about Singapore’s cancer screening gap.
Fewer than half — just 35–45 per cent of eligible residents — go for regular screenings, despite the availability of national screening programmes for cervical, breast, and colorectal cancers.
Screening and early detection saves lives. We’re glad for this commentary by Professor Ravindran Kanesvaran, who also serves as the Vice-Chair of Singapore Cancer Society. It shines a light on the work that needs to be done, including:
- Public education, especially for vulnerable communities
- Raising awareness of symptoms and risk factors
- Helping individuals navigate screening options
Singapore Cancer Society champions these efforts by working with partners across healthcare, business, and the community in our mission to minimise cancer and maximise lives. How can you help? Start by knowing the facts. Explore our report on the latest national cancer and health data.
Ravindran Kanesvaran, Chairman of the Division of Medical Oncology at the National Cancer Centre Singapore, and Distinguished Professor of Geriatric Oncology at Duke-NUS Medical School, shared Singapore Cancer Society’s post, adding:
“Singapore’s widening cancer screening gap is a warning we cannot ignore. Despite accessible, subsidised national programmes for cervical, breast and colorectal cancer, only 35–45% of eligible residents are screened.
This is not a problem of access alone—it reflects gaps in awareness, trust, and navigation, especially for vulnerable communities. Screening saves lives through earlier detection, yet too many are still missing the opportunity. We need stronger public education, clearer communication on symptoms and risk, and better support to help people navigate their screening options.
Closing this gap must be a collective priority if we are serious about preventing avoidable cancer deaths.”
More posts from Singapore Cancer Society.
