Mothers are often the heart of the family—steady hands of quiet strength who guide, support and shape the lives of those they love. One of the most powerful ways mothers can care for their daughters is by passing down healthy habits, including those related to breast health. Why Early Action Matters When breast cancer is found early, survival rates can exceed 90%. Breast cancer remains the most common cancer affecting Singaporean women, with cases rising fourfold to around 76 per 100,000 population in 2018-2022 [1] [2]. It’s also the leading cause of cancer-related deaths for women, accounting for 17.1% of female cancer deaths [1].  Being aware of how one’s breasts look and feel and going for regular screenings such as mammograms can make all the difference. Early detection often leads to simpler treatments and better outcomes, including survival rates of over 90% [3][4].  Still, some women are missing these important checks. Participation in breast cancer screening dropped from 37.6% in 2022 to 34.7% in 2023 in Singapore [1]. What’s Stopping Women from Being Breast Aware? Self-care often takes a backseat to caregiving. A common reason women may skip screenings is busyness. Between work, caring for their families and managing daily life, it is easy for mothers to put their own needs last [5] [6].  For others, it’s fear. Breasts are deeply tied to identity and femininity [7]. The thought of a diagnosis, or the possibility of losing one’s breasts, can overshadow the importance of regular screenings [6].  And because breast cancer can sometimes develop without noticeable symptoms, this makes early detection difficult [8]. Women who feel healthy might mistakenly believe they do not need a mammogram [5].  Breast Awareness as Self-Care A mother's health is not just for her family—it's for herself too. Mothers rush loved ones to the clinic at the first sign of illness, yet hesitate when it comes to their own health. Taking time for a screening can feel like stepping away from their caregiving role, sometimes leading to feelings of guilt [9].  Some mothers go for screenings to stay healthy for their families and avoid being a burden [10]. But their well-being should be valued not just for others – it deserves to be prioritised for themselves.   Breast awareness is an act of self-love; a way for mothers to tune into their bodies, and show themselves the compassion they offer so freely to others.  Creating a Legacy of Care Healthy habits today become healthy generations tomorrow. While breast cancer is often seen as a disease in older women, data from three Singaporean healthcare centres show that around 10-13% of diagnosed patients are under 40 [11]. That’s why breast health conversations should begin early - even at a younger age.  Talking about breast health can feel awkward or distressing. But creating an open, supportive space within families builds trust and empowers everyone to take proactive steps.   The mother-daughter relationship strongly influences how young women view and care for their bodies [12] [13]. When mothers model positive health behaviours and attitudes, they leave an enduring legacy that daughters often carry into adulthood [12,13,14].  Signs to Watch For Help daughters recognise these potential warning signs [15]: A lump or swelling in the breast, chest or armpit that doesn’t go away Skin changes such as dimpling, redness or irritation Change in breast size or shape Persistent nipple discharge Nipple changes such as rashes or inversion Persistent pain in the breast or armpits Your Health is Their Future By normalising breast awareness, mothers pass down a legacy of care and bodily ownership that empowers future generations to own their breast health.  Every choice you make ripples through the generations. This Mother’s Day, let’s celebrate women who lead by example – women who prioritise their breast health, spark important conversations, and empower their daughters to own their well-being.  Schedule your breast health check today. You’re not just protecting yourself – you’re shaping generations to come. References: [1] Ministry of Health Singapore, National Population Health Survey 2023  [2] Singapore Cancer Registry Annual Report 2022  [3] Cancer Research UK, Symptoms of breast cancer [4] Ministry of Health - Health Promotion Board, Breast Cancer: Learn How Early Detection and Lifestyle Changes Could Help Protect Yourself  [5] Ministry of Health Singapore, National Population Health Survey 2022  [6] Qualitative factors influencing breast and cervical cancer screening in women: A scoping review  [7] “Voices of Fear and Safety” Women’s ambivalence towards breast cancer and breast health: a qualitative study from Jordan [8] Cancer Council, Breast Cancer [9] Put MY mask on first: Mothers’ reactions to prioritizing health behaviours as a function of self-compassion and fear of self-compassion  [10] Understanding Barriers and Facilitators of Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening among Singapore Women: A Qualitative Approach [11] Beating breast cancer: How these women in their 20s, 30s and 40s survived and thrived [12] Helping Mothers and Daughters Talk about Environmental Breast Cancer Risk and Risk-Reducing Lifestyle Behaviors [13] The Mother-Daughter Relationship and Daughter's Positive Body Image: A Systematic Review  [14] Adult daughters’ reports of breast cancer risk reduction and early detection advice received from their mothers: an exploratory study  [15] NHS, Symptoms of breast cancer in women