Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an annual event dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer, promoting early detection, and supporting those affected by the disease. In Singapore, there are various activities and events planned for October 2023 to commemorate this important month. From charity walks to informative talks, here’s a rundown of some noteworthy Breast Cancer Awareness Month activities happening in Singapore.
Quick Facts About Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is a disease in which cells in the breast grow out of control. In addition, experts found that there are different kinds of breast cancer, which typically depend on which cells in the breast turn into cancer.
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1 in 7 women can be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. With a high number of people diagnosed with breast cancer across the globe, certain groups and organisations then decided to initiate this movement.
When breast cancer is detected early, there is a good chance that it can be cured, especially when appropriate diagnosis and treatments are available.
Meanwhile, medical advancements helped the development of early breast cancer detection. The new blood test that helps determine the early signs of the disease also became available in Singapore.
Why We Commemorate Breast Cancer Awareness Month
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Breast Cancer Awareness Month started in 1985. The celebration initially introduced a partnership between the American Cancer Society and the pharmaceutical division of Imperial Chemical Industries.
Fortunately, many people from around the world decided to adopt this movement. Moreover, several countries honour the importance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Dedicated individuals are committed to raising awareness of breast cancer. It is primarily because they notice insufficient knowledge of the causes of breast cancer. They also want to talk about the struggles of breast cancer patients.
By celebrating Breast Cancer Awareness Month, many people worldwide are becoming aware of it. It helps people extend their knowledge about it, including risk factors and prevention.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month Activities
When celebrating Breast Cancer Awareness in Singapore and other countries, we often see pink ribbon pins. Additionally, areas that plan to honour the movement display anything pink related to emphasise the occasion.
It is entirely normal during this specific month of the year. In truth, we encourage you to join those involved by pinning a pink ribbon to your clothes.
If you want to get more involved, here are some events that you can take part in during Breast Cancer Awareness Month in Singapore:
1. The Pink Ribbon Walk 2023
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The Pink Ribbon Walk 2023 is a highly anticipated annual event that returns with a full in-person gathering this year. Register now to participate and show your support for breast cancer awareness. This fun run is not just for runners; it welcomes walkers and survivors too.
The event aims to raise funds for the Breast Cancer Foundation, which provides essential support and awareness programs for breast cancer patients. Participants will receive goodie bags that include a pink ribbon t-shirt. Additionally, those with a flair for creative OOTD can wear their best pink outfits for a chance to win prizes.
Date: 29 October 2023
Time: Starts at 8 am
Location: Marina Bay Sands Events Plaza
2. Women’s Wellness: Focusing on Breasts and Cervical Cancers
Health experts from the National University Cancer Institute Singapore and the National University Hospital will gather for a one-day breast cancer awareness event. Participants can gain valuable insights into preventing and detecting signs of breast and cervical cancer. The event also offers sharing sessions by breast cancer survivors, a free workout session, and more. For further information and registration details, visit the Breast Cancer Awareness website.
Date: 7 October 2023
Time: 11 am – 1 pm
Location: Jurong Medical Centre, 60 Jurong West Central 3, Singapore 648346
3. Breast Cancer Talk and Health Carnival (Malay Language)
Organized in Malay, this event by the National Cancer Centre Singapore, National University Cancer Institute, Singapore, and Singapore Cancer Society welcomes the Malay community for a day of activities and informative talks. Attendees can learn more about breast cancer from health experts and participate in interactive activities.
Date: 21 October 2023
Time: 11:30 am – 5:30 pm
Location: Wisma Geylang Serai, Persada Budaya, Level 1, 1 Engku Aman Turn, Singapore 408528
4. Singapore Cancer Society Clinic @ Bishan: FREE Mammograms
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Early detection is crucial for breast cancer survival. Singapore Cancer Society Clinic @ Bishan offers free mammograms for Singaporean women aged 50 and above, strictly by appointment.
Venue: Singapore Cancer Society Clinic, 9 Bishan Pl, #06-05, Junction 8, Singapore 579837
5. National University Cancer Institute Singapore: $10 Funding Assistance
From 1 October to 31 December 2023, NCIS is providing an additional $10 funding assistance to Singapore citizens and PRs aged 50 and above who are undergoing their first mammograms under the HPB Screen For Life Programme at NUHS Diagnostic Centres.
6. Fit & Fab with NCIS
NCIS invites you to an evening workout session at The Frontier Plaza. Put on your best pink outfit and dance your way to a healthier lifestyle. This one-time event returns after the success of its virtual workouts in previous years. Be sure to register early!
Date: 20 October 2023
Time: 8 pm – 9 pm
Location: The Frontier Plaza beside The Frontier CC, 60 Jurong West Central 3, Singapore 648346
7. Breast Cancer Awareness Webinars (in English and Mandarin)
Organized by the Breast Cancer Foundation, National Cancer Centre Singapore, National University Cancer Institute, Singapore, Singapore Cancer Society, and Tan Tock Seng Hospital, these webinars will feature specialists discussing breast cancer in Singapore. Gain insights into the disease and hear from survivors about their journey.
Date: 14 October 2023
Location: Online, on Zoom
8. Mammobus: FREE Mammograms
On 28 – 29 October 2023 and 4 – 5 November 2023, all women citizens in Singapore aged 40 and above are eligible for free mammograms on the Mammobus. First-time screeners can avail of this service for free, while repeat screeners will be charged just $10. PRs can also get screened, with rates starting at $25.
These Breast Cancer Awareness Month activities in Singapore offer opportunities for education, support, and early detection. Join in and make a difference in the fight against breast cancer while promoting awareness and wellness within the community.
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