Targeted therapy for breast cancer is transforming how patients in Singapore approach treatment. Unlike traditional chemotherapy, this method focuses on specific cancer cells, aiming to stop their growth without damaging healthy tissues. As breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers among women in Singapore, understanding new and advanced treatment options like targeted therapy is vital.
In this article, we will take you through how targeted therapy works, who it benefits, the different types available, and why early detection through breast cancer screening in Singapore is critical for success.
Back to Main Channel: Breast Cancer
Understanding Breast Cancer in Singapore
Breast cancer Singapore statistics show a steady rise in diagnoses, particularly among women aged 40 and above. Due to lifestyle changes and genetic predispositions, the need for effective breast cancer screening Singapore programmes has become even more pressing. Early detection through regular breast cancer screening plays a critical role in improving survival rates.
After diagnosis, doctors assess the breast cancer stages to decide the best course of action. From Stage 0 (non-invasive) to Stage 4 (advanced cancer), treatment varies. In many cases, targeted therapy becomes a powerful option, especially for those with specific tumour markers.
What Is Targeted Therapy?
Targeted therapy is a type of breast cancer treatment designed to target the specific genes, proteins, or tissue environment that fuels cancer growth. It is not one-size-fits-all. Instead, doctors in Singapore run detailed tests to check if a tumour has certain markers that qualify for this approach.
Common Targets in Breast Cancer:
- HER2-positive breast cancer: About 1 in 5 breast cancer cases in Singapore overexpress the HER2 protein. Drugs like trastuzumab (Herceptin) block this protein’s signals and slow down tumour growth.
- Hormone receptor-positive breast cancer: Targeted therapies can block oestrogen or progesterone receptors to stop hormone-sensitive tumours from growing.
- BRCA-mutated cancers: Patients with inherited BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations may benefit from PARP inhibitors that block cancer cell repair mechanisms.
These therapies often work in combination with chemotherapy, surgery, radiation, or hormone therapy, depending on the patient’s breast cancer stage.
Who Benefits Most from Targeted Therapy?
Targeted therapy is not suitable for every patient. It is highly effective in specific scenarios where tests confirm molecular markers. You may benefit from targeted therapy if:
- You have HER2-positive breast cancer.
- Your cancer is hormone-receptor positive.
- You have a known BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation.
- Your cancer has returned or spread despite earlier treatments.
Doctors in Singapore follow global guidelines and local data to decide who qualifies. This personalised approach increases success rates and reduces unnecessary side effects.
How Is Targeted Therapy Given?
Targeted drugs may be administered:
- Orally (in tablet or capsule form)
- Intravenously (via infusion)
Most patients receive treatment in an outpatient setting. Sessions can vary from weekly to monthly, depending on the drug and the individual’s response.
Targeted therapies are usually well-tolerated, though side effects can include fatigue, diarrhoea, rash, and, in rare cases, heart issues—especially with HER2-targeting drugs. Your healthcare team in Singapore will monitor your response closely.
Comparing Targeted Therapy with Other Treatments
To better understand the benefits, here’s a quick comparison of targeted therapy with other common breast cancer treatments:
Treatment | How It Works | When It’s Used |
Chemotherapy | Attacks all fast-growing cells | Common in all stages; can be combined with others |
Hormone Therapy | Blocks hormones like oestrogen or progesterone | For hormone receptor-positive cancers |
Targeted Therapy | Blocks specific proteins or genes in tumour | When markers like HER2 or BRCA mutations are found |
Surgery & Radiation | Removes or shrinks tumours physically | Early-stage or localised cancer |
Screening and Early Diagnosis
Get Mammogram and Breast Cancer Screening in Singapore
To benefit from options like targeted therapy, early detection is crucial. Programmes for breast cancer screening Singapore recommend:
- Women aged 40–49: mammograms once every year.
- Women aged 50 and above: mammograms once every two years.
Regular breast cancer screening allows doctors to catch tumours early, making treatments more effective and increasing chances of survival.
Act Early for Better Breast Cancer Treatment Options
Targeted therapy for breast cancer is changing the way we treat the disease. By focusing on the unique characteristics of cancer cells, it offers a more personalised and effective approach than traditional treatments. For those with HER2-positive, hormone-receptor-positive, or BRCA-mutated breast cancer, targeted therapy can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life. However, the success of any treatment, including targeted therapy, depends heavily on early detection. The earlier breast cancer is found, the more treatment options are available and the better the chances of recovery.
Take charge of your health today by scheduling a mammogram and regular breast cancer screenings. Early action can make all the difference. If you have concerns about breast cancer and would like to consult a specialist, contact us using the button below to book an appointment.
Learn more: Guide To Finding The Best Breast Cancer Doctor In Singapore
Get Mammogram and Breast Cancer Screening in Singapore
Back to Main Channel: Breast Cancer
All content on this site is informative only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 995 immediately or go to the nearest Accident & Emergency department.
health365.sg is a member of Group 365Asia.