Breast screenings can be anxiety-inducing, and facing breast cancer is life-changing. At Solis and Luma, we prioritise open communication and compassionate care to ensure you feel supported every step of the way. Called Back After Mammogram: Finding Clarity Catching breast cancer early can make it easier to treat and improve survival, which is why regular screenings are crucial[1].  While screenings can be stressful enough, receiving a recall—callback for additional tests—can add to that anxiety. You may worry about what a recall might mean. Remember, a recall does not necessarily mean you have breast cancer[2]. 1. Specialised Experts If you are recalled, you will likely have a diagnostic mammogram to examine a suspicious area, and some patients may also have a breast ultrasound[2]. The breast sub-specialised sonographers and radiologists at Luma are skilled at spotting subtle signs of cancer. Using advanced technology such as 3D mammograms, they provide greater clarity and accuracy. 2. Mammogram with Greater Precision A 3D mammogram (or digital breast tomosynthesis) takes multiple X-ray images of your breasts from different angles, creating a detailed 3D image[3]. Research shows this method increases detection of invasive cancers by almost 54% and reduces callbacks for repeat tests by about 37%[4]. 3. Clear Explanations Feeling a mix of emotions—such as disbelief, anxiety, or fear—after a recall is normal[2]. Studies show that the attitude of clinic staff, quality of information provided and the physical environment can affect one’s satisfaction[5]. Solis’ all-female surgical team is here to reassure you and answer your questions, providing an affirming space where your concerns are heard. Clear explanations of test results can help bring you peace amid uncertainty[5]. Newly-Diagnosed: Now What? While not every abnormal mammogram result indicates breast cancer, receiving such test results and facing a diagnosis can be overwhelming. You may be full of uncertainty on what to expect next. Patients appreciate clear information throughout their journey, from their disease and treatment options to psychosocial and supportive care[6]. 1. Shorter Wait Times Waiting to start treatment can be stressful. It is common to worry that delays may affect outcomes or that your cancer may spread before treatment begins[7]. That is why Solis partners with Luma to offer seamless care under one roof. This allows you to access all your breast care needs from warm staff and an expert team—all while keeping wait times minimal. 2. Financial Advice Worries about treatment costs and their impact on family can be a heavy burden for many patients. Understanding your financial options and finding support can help ease some of the stress[6]. Solis offers personalised financial advice tailored to your specific symptoms, treatments and circumstances. 3. Personalised Care Plans A multidisciplinary approach helps address the complex needs of each patient, ensuring appropriate and effective care[8]. In weekly multidisciplinary tumour board sessions, Solis’ doctors and Luma’s radiologists and pathologist discuss treatment recommendations with partner oncology experts. Each patient receives tailored practice recommendations without the stress of navigating multiple opinions alone. 4. Female Surgical Team Before surgery, you may worry about changes to your body. Solis’ experienced female surgeons specialise in advanced breast-conserving techniques, such as oncoplastic breast surgery. Combining cancer surgery and plastic surgery techniques, it allows for tumour removal while preserving the breast, thereby improving a patient’s quality of life[9]. It can be done in a single surgery, reducing the need for more operations[10]. 5. Same-Day Surgery  At Luma’s Day Surgery Operating Theatre (DSOT), many patients—especially those with early-stage cancers—can often have surgery and return home on the same day. An on-site pathologist can assess surgical specimens for the margins of clearance (healthy tissue surgically removed with the cancer) in real-time during procedures[11]. This ensures complete cancer removal and minimises the chance of needing a second surgery. Life Beyond Treatment 1. Post-Treatment Care Battling breast cancer and going through treatment can affect your self-esteem and identity[12]. Partnering with organisations such as Can-Care Asia, Solis offers personalised care that goes beyond just treatment. To help you feel more comfortable and confident, Can-Care offers high-quality post-care products, including breast prostheses, mastectomy bras, wigs, hair care items and more. 2. Strength in Community Support from counsellors and connecting with other survivors can empower you, relieve anxiety and enhance quality of life[6]. Club Solis is a supportive network for Solis patients to connect and uplift each other. Through engagement events and inspiring stories from fellow pink warriors, you can find reassurance and the courage to take ownership of your journey. Whether you’re going for screening or require treatment, remember: you are not alone. The expert multidisciplinary team at Solis and Luma is here to make sure you feel informed, supported and cared for at every stage of your breast health journey. References [1] Cancer Research UK, Survival for Breast Cancer  [2] American Cancer Society, Getting Called Back After a Mammogram  [3] Breastcancer.org, Mammography Technique and Types [4] Implementation of Breast Tomosynthesis in a Routine Screening Practice: An Observational Study [5] Improving screening recall services for women with false-positive mammograms: a comparison of qualitative evidence with UK guidelines  [6] What information do cancer patients want and how well are their needs being met?  [7] Cancer patients’ concerns regarding access to cancer care: perceived impact of waiting times along the diagnosis and treatment journey  [8] The Impact of Tumor Boards on Breast Cancer Care: Evidence from a Systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analysis  [9] Oncoplastic breast surgery  [10] American Cancer Society, Breast Reconstruction After Breast-conserving Surgery  [11] Breastcancer.org, Breast Cancer Surgical Margins  [12] Irish Cancer Society, Body image and self-esteem after breast cancer

Nobody wants to deal with breast cancer, but detecting it early can make a big difference. Regular mammograms can help spot potential problems before they become serious. Yet, many women skip this very important screening. Why? 1) Overwhelming Fear and Stigma It is common to think a cancer diagnosis means a death sentence. Fears surrounding a diagnosis or treatment, combined with the stigma attached to cancer, often overshadow the importance of regular mammograms[1][2]  . Many also worry about potential treatment costs, social exclusion and the internalised shame associated with having breast cancer[1][3].There is also the misconception that recovery is impossible[3]. It is important to remember that these feelings and fears are natural, and that everyone’s experience with cancer is different. 2) Perceived Health and Breast Cancer Misconceptions In the 2022 National Population Health Survey, the leading reason women in Singapore aged 50 to 69 delayed getting mammograms was their belief that being healthy meant there was no need for screening[4]. The challenge however, is that some women diagnosed with breast cancer may not have any symptoms[5]. The misconception that breast cancer only affects older women can cause younger women to neglect their breast health[6].While breast cancer risk does increase with age, it can still occur in younger women. It’s important for women of all ages to be aware of what’s normal for their breasts and to monitor for any changes. 27-year-old Tay Lautner, wife of actor Taylor Lautner, discovered a hard breast lump while showering[7].She took action by seeing a doctor and getting screened for cancer. No matter your age, keeping up with breast health is essential, as breast cancer can affect anyone. 3) Balancing Health and Daily Demands Another common reason women skip screenings is because they are too busy[1].With work, family and everyday responsibilities, it can be tough to find the time. Even caring for children takes priority over scheduling mammograms. With these many reasons, some women delay getting their breast lumps checked even after feeling them in their breast. While some breast lumps are not cancerous and may even go away on their own, others worsen over time[8].You never know for sure until you see a doctor. Benefits of Being Breast Aware Breast cancer is the most common cancer among Singaporean women, with cases rising more than threefold to 74 cases per 100,000 population[9].Understanding what is normal for your breasts can help you notice changes earlier, allowing you to address issues before they get worse. Scheduling screenings such as mammograms is key because catching the cancer early—when it is still small and has not spread—can improve treatment outcomes[5]. Early screenings can also improve your chances of survival. Studies show that annual mammogram screenings can reduce breast cancer mortality by approximately 41%[10]. While self-examinations can help you spot changes in your breast or nipples, mammograms should not be overlooked. Mammography can help detect cancer before any symptoms show up, when the cancer is too small to even see or feel[5][11]. How to Make the Most of Your Appointment Naturally, going to the doctor can be overwhelming and anxiety-inducing, especially if you are there for cancer screening. Here are some simple steps to help make the experience less daunting and ensure you get the support you need[12]. If you have symptoms, jot them down before your appointment. Note when they started, when they happen and how often they occur. Let your doctor know if you are worried about cancer or if you have a family history of it. Do not hesitate to ask your doctor for clarification on anything you find confusing. Having a friend or family member with you can provide much-needed comfort.  They can help you take notes or ask questions too. Empower Yourself and Embrace Breast Health Breaking down breast cancer myths and encouraging open conversations can help women feel less hesitant about getting a mammogram. Highlighting the potential for better outcomes with early treatment can shift perceptions and boost breast health awareness. The Ministry of Health Singapore reports that breast screening rates are around 50% for women with higher education and 28% for women with primary education[13]. Regular breast self-examinations and screenings are crucial for staying on top of breast cancer. It is not just about being aware—it is about taking proactive steps to monitor your breast health effectively. Show your breast friends you care—book a mammogram appointment and encourage others to do the same. Remember, early detection saves lives. References [1] A review of barriers and facilitators to mammography in Asian women [2] Barriers to early presentation of self-discovered breast cancer in Singapore and Malaysia: a qualitative multicentre study [3] Determination of the Association between Perceived Stigma and Delay in Help-Seeking Behavior of Women with Breast Cancer [4] Ministry of Health Singapore, National Population Health Survey 2022 [5] Cancer Research UK, Symptoms of Breast Cancer [6] National Breast Cancer Foundation Inc., Myth: Breast cancer only affects middle-aged or older women [7] E News, Taylor Lautner’s Wife Tay Lautner Shares Breast Cancer Scare [8] National Breast Cancer Foundation Inc., Myth: Finding a lump in your breast means you have breast cancer [9] Health Promotion Board, Singapore Cancer Registry Annual Report 2021 [10] Outcomes of Breast Cancer Screening Strategies Based on Cancer Intervention Surveillance Modeling Network Estimates [11] American Cancer Society, Breast Cancer Signs and Symptoms  [12] Cancer Research UK, Seeing your GP when you have symptoms of breast cancer [13] Ministry of Health Singapore, Screening Rate for Breast Cancer