• Themed ‘Act Now, Live Strong’, this year’s National Breast Cancer Awareness Month campaign aims to encourage women to proactively get screened 
• Over 20 activities lined-up to raise breast cancer awareness, including a photo competition and exhibition, light-ups in pink at landmarks across the island and educational talks
• Flagship event on Friday, 19 September 2025, graced by Guest of Honour, Ms Rahayu Mahzam, Minister of State, Ministry of Digital Development and Information & Ministry of Health 

19 September 2025, Singapore – Breast cancer remains the most common cancer and leading cause of cancer death among women in Singapore. It accounts for close to 30% of all cancers diagnosed in women and more than 17% of cancer deaths between 2018 and 2022¹.

Encouragingly, more women are getting diagnosed earlier here, with over 57% of breast cancer cases detected at Stage I now compared to 33% in 2012², highlighting the increasing awareness. However, the overall breast cancer screening rates remains low. The latest 2023 National Population Health Survey showed that slightly more than one-third (34.7%) of Singapore women aged 50 to 69 had gone for mammogram screening in the past two years³. This was a 3% dip from the year before that.

More needs to be done to further raise awareness among women on the importance of regular screening for early detection of breast cancer, which can increase the chance of successful treatment and survival, reduce the aggressiveness of treatment required, and improve the overall quality of life for those diagnosed.

To empower all women, the National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM) 2025 campaign is themed “Act Now, Live Strong”, to encourage women to prioritise their breast health, take action and go for mammogram screening.

“Breast cancer is one of the most treatable cancers when detected in the early stages. Screening and early detection significantly improves survival rates and treatment outcomes, potentially saving lives. We want to empower and encourage women to ‘Act Now’ by proactively going for regular screening, while reminding those battling the disease that it is possible to ‘Live Strong’ by keeping a positive mindset and healthy lifestyle. This October, we have an exciting line up of educational talks, mammogram walk-in clinics, and outdoor activities, which we hope will address any fears and break down emotional barriers that may deter women from getting screened,” shared Clinical Assistant Professor Sim Yirong, Co-Chairperson of NBCAM 2025 Organising Committee and Senior Consultant, Department of Breast Surgery, Division of Surgery & Surgical Oncology, Singapore General Hospital and National Cancer Centre Singapore.

“At KK Women's and Children's Hospital (KKH), hundreds of women come through our doors each day - from those seeking preventive care to those undergoing treatment and cancer survivors. Each diagnosis impacts not just the individual, but ripples through families and communities. Breast cancer can affect women at any age, and we're committed to supporting them whether they're coming for screening, navigating a diagnosis, or undergoing treatment. Through NBCAM 2025, we reaffirm our promise to be the trusted partner for women at every stage of their breast health journey,” said Clinical Assistant Professor Yan Zhiyan, Co-Chairperson of NBCAM 2025 Organising Committee and Senior Consultant, KK Breast Department, KKH.

NBCAM 2025 flagship event and activities

The NBCAM 2025 flagship event held at the Capitol Singapore Outdoor Plaza on Friday, 19 September 2025, was graced by Guest of Honour (GOH) Ms Rahayu Mahzam, Minister of State, Ministry of Digital Development and Information & Ministry of Health. A key highlight of the flagship event was a photo exhibition titled ‘Act Now, Live Strong’, which featured photos submitted that captured moments of resilience, love, hope and courage shown by those battling breast cancer. Photographers of the top three entries received prizes presented by GOH Ms Rahayu Mahzam. At the event, participants took part in interactive and educational games and learned about breast health, screening, and self-breast examination through a series of talks by medical experts.

The NBCAM 2025 Committee comprising members from SingHealth, Breast Cancer Foundation, Health Promotion Board, National University Cancer Institute, Singapore, NHG Health and Singapore Cancer Society, have planned over 20 activities for the month of October at various locations island-wide to raise awareness on breast cancer and improve access to screening. 

Lighting Up Singapore in Pink

In support of the National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, various iconic landmarks, buildings and public spaces across Singapore will be lit up in pink in October 2025 to raise public awareness on breast cancer and the importance of regular screening and early detection. 

QUOTES FROM NBCAM 2025 AGENCIES AND INSTITUTIONS

BREAST CANCER FOUNDATION

Breast cancer doesn’t wait for the calendar—and neither do we. At Breast Cancer Foundation, we believe early detection saves lives, turning fear into hope and uncertainty into clarity. But awareness alone is not enough. With more young women being impacted, our Young Women’s Initiative ensures that every woman, at any age or stage, has access to support, advocacy, and community.

While October casts a spotlight on breast cancer, our work doesn’t end when the month does. Through year-round education, outreach, and unwavering care, we work tirelessly so no woman—and no family—ever has to walk this path alone. Together, with urgency and hope, we’re building a future where early detection, strong support, and shared community save lives every day.

Mr Jacob Soo, General Manager, Breast Cancer Foundation

NATIONAL UNIVERSITY CANCER INSTITUTE, SINGAPORE

Our commitment at the National University Cancer Institute, Singapore (NCIS) is to build a future where breast cancer is not just treated, but prevented and overcome. By focusing on early detection and regular screenings, we enable less invasive, targeted treatments and better recovery. To that end, we have been actively collaborating with our partners to bring mammogram screenings and follow-up care directly into the heart of the community. As part of NBCAM 2025, we are organising a series of programmes to elevate public education on breast cancer, including roadshows, public walk-in mammograms and a photo exhibition showcasing portraits of our incredible breast cancer survivors.

At NCIS, we are dedicated to fighting this disease year-round through ongoing efforts to raise awareness for early screening, improve access to cancer care and advance research in cutting-edge treatments. We stand ready to educate, treat, and support our patients at every stage, celebrating the resilience of survivors and empowering all to prioritise their health.

Dr Leong Wei Qi, Consultant, Division of Breast Surgery, Department of Surgery, National University Hospital and Consultant, Division of Surgical Oncology, National University Cancer Institute, Singapore

NHG HEALTH

Early detection remains our strongest ally in the fight against breast cancer. At NHG Health, we've seen how timely screening can dramatically improve treatment outcomes and quality of life for our patients. Through our community outreach programmes and accessible screening facilities, we're working to ensure that every woman has the opportunity to take charge of her breast health.

Our integrated approach combines public education, regular screening initiatives, and comprehensive support services to guide women through their entire healthcare journey. When breast cancer is detected early, we can often employ less aggressive, more personalised treatment strategies that lead to faster recovery times and better outcomes.

What's particularly encouraging is the growing awareness in our communities. We're seeing more women coming forward for regular screenings, and our survivor support networks are flourishing. This proactive approach to breast health is exactly what we need to continue building upon.

Dr Marc Ong, Chairperson of NHG Health BCAM 2025 Organising Committee and Head and Senior Consultant, General Surgery Khoo Teck Puat Hospital

 SINGAPORE CANCER SOCIETY

Despite accessible screening services, many women in Singapore still delay screening due to concerns, time constraints, or cultural barriers. At Singapore Cancer Society, we are closing this gap by meeting women where they are and supporting their screening journey fully. Whether it is bringing the mammobus to workplaces or rallying community partners to reach under-screened groups, we are committed to empowering women to care for themselves and their loved ones.

Mr Tan Kwang Cheak, Chief Executive Officer, Singapore Cancer Society 

HEALTH PROMOTION BOARD

Breast cancer continues to be a leading cancer affecting women in Singapore (source: National Registry of Diseases Office, 2024). Early detection through screening and timely management can make a crucial difference in treatment outcomes and survival rates. Regular mammogram screening is an essential prevention tool for women, as it reduces the risk of complications and increases treatment success rates. Together with our community partners, we want to drum up efforts to educate and encourage women to ‘Act Now’ in safeguarding their health through regular breast screening. 

With Healthier SG Screening, screening is made even more affordable for women, where eligible Singapore Citizens who are enrolled with Healthier SG will enjoy special subsidies for Healthier SG Screening (i.e. pay $0) at their enrolled Healthier SG clinic (CHAS GP or polyclinic). Appointment booking is now made more convenient on the HealthHub app, and we urge women to take this first step now.

Ms Vivian Sim, Director, Planning, Performance & Screening, Health Promotion Board

¹Singapore Cancer Registry 2022 Annual Report

²Singapore Cancer Registry 2022 Annual Report

³National Population Health Survey (NPHS) 2023 Report | Ministry of Health