Parkway Booklet

Skin cancer

Colorectal cancer

Cervical cancer

SCREENING: Faecal Immunochemical

SCREENING: Pap smear test This test involves

SCREENING: Self-examination and visual check by a doctor or dermatologist Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in Caucasian populations and the sixth most common cancer amongst both men and women in Singapore. A regular head-to-toe self- examination is a good way to identify any unusual looking moles. If you spot anything suspicious, a doctor or dermatologist can perform a detailed visual check. If they find anything out of the ordinary, they can take a sample to perform a biopsy. WHO SHOULD DO IT? Men and women The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends everyone do a monthly self-examination, following up on any concerns with a doctor. Those at high risk of developing melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, may wish to make an annual appointment to get their skin checked.

Test (FIT) and colonoscopy

collecting a sample of cells from a woman’s cervix (the end of the uterus that extends into the vagina) during a routine pelvic exam. A substance called “Papanicolau stain” is added to the cells, which are then examined under a microscope to identify any cellular abnormalities. WHO SHOULD DO IT? Sexually active women 25 years and above: Pap smear test every three years.

The FIT tests for traces of blood in the stool, which can be an early sign of cancer. If any abnormalities are found, it will likely be followed up with a colonoscopy. Almost all colorectal cancers develop from benign growths called polyps which can be located and removed during a colonoscopy. This involves a colonoscope (a thin, tube-like instrument) being inserted through the rectum and into the colon allowing doctors to look for signs of cancer. WHO SHOULD DO IT? Men and women 50 years and above: FIT and a colonoscopy every 10 years. Those with higher risk of colorectal cancer should start screening earlier and get a colonoscopy once every three years.

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* Singapore Cancer Registry, Interim Annual Registry Report,Trends in Cancer Incidence Singapore 2010-2014