1. Blood pressure and cholesterol screening
High blood pressure and cholesterol are often silent conditions—but both raise the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), which claims the lives of 1 in 3 women in Singapore every year.3
The Singapore Heart Foundation recommends to start regular checks for blood pressure from age 18 and more frequent monitoring after 40. If your blood pressure is above 130/85mmHg, it's recommended to go for annual screenings.4 For cholesterol screening, every three years is recommended for individuals aged 40 and above.2
Your doctor may also recommend more frequent monitoring if you have additional risk factors such as being overweight, smoking, or a family history of hypertension or heart disease.
2. Diabetes screening
Type 2 diabetes often develops silently—but its long-term impact can be serious. Early detection gives you a head start on lifestyle changes and medical interventions that can prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes.
MOH recommends screening every three years from age 40.5 Similar to blood pressure and cholesterol screening, earlier and more frequent checks are recommended if you have risk factors such as obesity, high blood pressure, or a family history of diabetes. Women with a history of gestational diabetes (high blood sugar during pregnancy)—are advised to undergo annual screening.6
3. Eye examination
Globally, women account for two-thirds of all blindness and visual impairment cases.7 Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, menopause, and the use of hormonal birth control or hormone replacement therapy can significantly impact eye health.8 These hormonal changes are linked to conditions like dry eye syndrome, which is particularly common in women during menopause.
Regular eye exams are crucial—not just for vision correction, but for detecting early signs of conditions such as glaucoma or diabetic retinopathy. It is recommended to schedule an eye exam every two years. For individuals with diabetes, an annual eye screening is strongly recommended.9
4. Breast examination
Early detection remains one of the most powerful tools in the fight against breast cancer. Self-examination should be a basic practice that every woman does regularly. Being familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel makes it easier to notice unusual changes—an important step in staying proactive about your health.
Women aged 50 and above, as well as those with a strong family history—such as a mother or sister diagnosed at a younger age— are generally advised to go for regular screenings.10 This could include breast ultrasounds and, if recommended, a mammogram.
5. Cervical cancer screening
Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in women worldwide.11 It mainly affects sexually active women aged 30 to 50 and is often caused by the high-risk subtypes of human papillomavirus (HPV), which can lead to pre-cancerous changes in cervical cells.
Cervical cancer can be prevented with two key measures: primary prevention via HPV vaccination, and secondary prevention through Pap smear screening. HPV testing, done alongside a Pap smear during a pelvic exam, identifies the high-risk HPV strains associated with this cancer.
In Singapore, MOH recommends that women aged 25 to 29 undergo a Pap smear every 3 years, while those aged 30 to 69 should have an HPV test every five years.12 Additionally, HPV vaccination is advised for females aged 9 to 26 to protect against the high-risk HPV strains responsible for most cervical cancer cases.
6. Screening for Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)—including chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)—often present without symptoms.13 Regular STI screening enables early treatment, reduces the risk of long-term complications, and prevents transmission.
Untreated STIs can lead to serious health issues for women such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can cause chronic pain, infertility, and increased risk of ectopic pregnancy.13 Early detection and treatment are crucial for maintaining reproductive health and overall well-being.
7. Osteoporosis screening
Osteoporosis causes bones to become brittle and prone to fractures, particularly in the hip, spine, and wrists. Since there are usually no symptoms until a fracture occurs, bone mineral density (BMD) screening is crucial.
Women are at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis due to several factors, including hormonal changes during menopause. BMD screening is typically recommended for women aged 50 and above, or younger women with risk factors, to detect early bone loss and prevent serious injury.14
A common method for BMD screening is the Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) test. This quick, non-invasive test measures bone density and helps identify osteoporosis before fractures occur, allowing for timely intervention and treatment.14
8. Colon cancer screening
Colorectal cancer is the cancer of the colon and rectum, and the second most common cancer among men and women in Singapore between 2018-202216.This cancer typically originates from polyps, which are small growths on the inner lining of the colon and rectum. Polyps are frequently found in individuals aged 45 and older and can take 10 to 15 years to become cancerous, making their removal essential upon discovery.15
Women aged 50 and above are advised to undergo regular screenings, such as Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) once a year or a colonoscopy every 5-10 years.2 Detecting the disease early greatly improves the chances of successful treatment.
Safeguard your future
If you have any questions or concerns about health screenings for yourself or your family, please consult your doctor for further advice. By staying proactive and informed, you can address potential health issues at various stages of your life and confidently take charge of your well-being.
Similarly, just as preventive care is crucial for your health, it's equally important to have financial protection in case of emergencies. Speak to a Financial Planner for a tailor-made solution that fits your needs. | 
