While women and men share certain common health risks, women have a higher risk of some diseases, particularly those relating to maternal problems and the reproductive system. Some of the health problems that women in Singapore experience are a result of their fast-paced modern lifestyle or due to their specific build.

To detect these illnesses in their early stage and get proper treatment fast, women should go for regular screening to recommended women’s clinic Singapore. This article shares the five common types of women’s health concerns in Singapore.

Breast cancer

SingHealth reported that over twenty-five per cent of all cancers diagnosed in women is breast cancer, which makes it the most common cancer type amongst Singaporean women. The risk of breast cancer increases as women age.

Breast cancer comes from a malignant tumour which is created when the breast cells become abnormal. Periodic female’s normal hormones trigger it. The duration of the fertile period, which starts from the first period until menopause, is a risk factor. Therefore, women who have their period early or have late menopause have a higher risk of getting this cancer.

Similarly, women who experience childbirth after thirty years old will also have a greater risk of getting this cancer compared to those who have their first pregnancy before thirty years old. Women who have a family history of this cancer are also more prone to it. Five to ten per cent of all breast cancers are associated with genetic factors.

The majority of women who were diagnosed with breast cancer consult their physicians after noticing abnormal symptoms on their own. A breast lump is the most common sign of breast cancer. Even a painless, small lump can be cancerous. Still, most breast lumps are benign and not cancerous.

Cervical cancer

While cervical cancer ranked number ten as the most common female cancer in the country, it can be treated effectively with early detection. Human Papilloma Virus or HPV infection is the most common cause of this cancer. Women who are sexually active, immunosuppressed, HIV-positive and have undergone solid organ transplants are at a greater risk of contracting this disease.

Early symptoms of cervical cancer are abnormal vaginal bleeding during sexual intercourse and in between menstruations. Its late symptoms may include weight loss, pelvic pain, leg swelling and lower back pain.

Women can lower their risk of cervical cancer by opting for a regular Pap smear test, taking HPV vaccination, avoiding smoking, having fewer sexual partners and postponing their first sexual intercourse.

Ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer happens when cancer afflicts the ovaries, which is a key organ of a woman’s reproductive system. The ovaries have primitive cells which will become eggs. When these cells become cancerous, it will be called germ cell tumours.

Women who have a family history of this cancer type or personal history of certain cancer, such as breast and colon cancer, have a greater risk of ovarian cancer. Women who experience late pregnancy, have never conceived, have early menstruation onset, have late menopause, or have undergone menopausal hormone therapy also have a higher risk of getting this cancer. Women who think they are at risk should consult with their doctor.

Gynaecological issues

Singaporean women are also at risk of having gynaecological issues at some point in their life. The gynaecological conditions they commonly experienced include menstrual disorder, ovarian cysts, polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis and uterine fibroid.

Rheumatoid arthritis

This condition is the most common chronic inflammatory arthritis in the country and typically affects people between forty and sixty years old, particularly in women. Often, rheumatoid arthritis affects smaller joints of the body, especially those in the hands, wrist and feet. It can also be a severe and disabling condition.

The cause of this condition is unknown. However, both environmental and genetic factors may contribute to this illness.

Tips for choosing the best Singapore women’s clinic

Early detection of diseases gives women a better chance of cure and survival. Therefore, women should visit their gynaecologist regularly and opt for regular screening. When choosing a Singapore women’s clinic, consider the clinic’s location, credibility, reputation, track record, past malpractice suits, medical facility, additional services, and pricing structure.