Forum: End of free test kit distribution can hurt fight against cancer here
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Colorectal cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among Singaporeans aged 50 and above, particularly when not detected early.
For years, the Singapore Cancer Society, with government support, has played a vital role in raising public awareness and encouraging early screening through its outreach campaigns.
One of its most impactful efforts was the community distribution of free faecal immunochemical test kits – a simple yet effective tool to detect hidden blood in stools, which can be an early sign of colorectal cancer.
As someone who regularly responded to these screening initiatives, I am grateful for this public health effort.
It has helped to normalise the conversation around cancer screening and enabled early detection for many Singaporeans, especially those who would otherwise not have sought screening on their own.
However, I was surprised and disheartened to learn recently that the Singapore Cancer Society has stopped distributing these kits, which now have to be collected through Healthier SG healthcare providers, where doctor consultation and screening test fees may apply.
Given the ageing population in Singapore and the proven effectiveness of early screening, this shift feels like a step backwards in our nation’s fight against cancer.
Ho Kheng Tiong
