SINGAPORE - From Sept 1, eligible Singaporeans need pay only $5 for a basic health screening.

They can be screened for diabetes, high blood and cholesterol levels, cervical and colorectal cancers at clinics under the Community Health Assist Scheme (Chas). The fee also includes consultation if the tests prove positive.

Singaporeans aged 50 and above can get themselves screened for all five medical conditions, while those aged 40-49 can screen for all but colorectal cancer.

It is free for Pioneer Generation Singaporeans and costs $2 for those who have the Chas card.

This highly subsidised screening can be done every three years.

Currently, the cost is between $70 and $100.

This was announced by Minister of State for Health Chee Hong Tat in Parliament on Thursday (March 9) during the debate on the ministry's Budget.

Many people here are not aware that they have chronic ailments until complications set in.

Said Mr Chee: "Early detection and intervention are important in preventing diabetes and managing the disease."

This $5 to screen for five conditions also applies to people aged between 18 and 39 years who are at risk of these chronic diseases.

Correction note: This story has been edited to clarify that only those aged 50 years and older will be screened for all five medical conditions including colorectal cancer as recommended by the national screening guidelines. Those aged 40-49 can screen for four medical conditions, but not colorectal cancer.