For instance, actress Janice Koh first noticed an ulcer on her tongue, which she initially delayed getting treated as she was busy working and travelling. It was only after a visit to a General Practitioner and a second dental check-up that her dentist urged her to visit a specialist. This eventually led to the shocking diagnosis of tongue cancer for the mother of two.

Meanwhile, politician Baey Yam Keng was actually following up on an unrelated condition when his doctor suspected something was wrong. As part of the follow-up, he was referred to the Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) specialist who did a scope of his nasal passage and diagnosed him with nose cancer.

Both examples stand as stark reminders that cancer can strike anyone unexpectedly and detection is not always so straightforward.

Spotting the Silent Cancers

Many silent cancers creep in without loud announcements. Here’s a list of six elusive cancers in Singapore:

1. Colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer is the number one killer cancer in Singapore that affects both men and women, according to the National University Cancer Institute Singapore (NCIS).

The deceptive nature of this cance, which comprises both colon and rectal cancers, often lies in its seemingly benign signs.

Experiencing changes in these symptoms?

• Changes in bowel habits like diarrhoea; 

• Abdominal discomfort;

• Unexplained weight loss; 

• Blood in stools, 

• Having a feeling that your bowel doesn't empty completely, or 

• Unexplained abdominal pain

   

It's worth having a chat with a healthcare professional. 

Routine colonoscopies are recommended starting at age 50 for most individuals and earlier for those with risk factors, such as individuals with a history of inflammatory bowel disease like ulcerative colitis (ulcers in the lining of the large intestine) or Crohn’s disease. 

These scans can detect colorectal cancer as well as find and remove polyps, which might develop into cancer. 

2.  Lung Cancer

Persistent coughs and chest pain can be more than just a nasty cold. Lung cancer, the third most common cancer amongst males and females based on the Singapore Cancer Registry Annual Report 2021, often presents no noticeable symptoms until its advanced stages, making it one of the most lethal silent cancers. 

Other symptoms to be wary of include:

• Shortness of breath;

• Fatigue;

• Hoarseness in voice;

• Unexplained weight loss, and 

• Blood in your phelgm

   

When detected early, lung cancer can be treatable. Low-dose CT scans are now being recommended for high-risk groups, which can detect lung nodules before they develop into larger, more dangerous tumours.

3. Ovarian cancer

The tricky part about ovarian cancer is that its symptoms often mimic those of other less severe conditions, such as menstrual disorders or digestive issues.

Keep a lookout for:

• Abdominal bloating or swelling;

• Pelvic discomfort;

• Changes in bowel habits like constipation;

• Feeling full quickly after eating;

• Unexplained weight loss or gain, or 

• Frequent urination

Unfortunately, there's no standard or reliable screening test for ovarian cancer. Pelvic exams, ultrasounds, or blood tests can sometimes help in detection, but they're not foolproof. 

This is why understanding who is at a higher risk of ovarian cancer can be beneficial. This includes women over the age of 50, those with a family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer, those with endometriosis as well as women who have never been pregnant. 

4. Breast cancer

Despite its prevalence and widespread awareness campaigns, breast cancer can begin its onset discreetly, making it one of the silent cancers to watch out for.

While lumps in the breast are the most known symptom, other subtle signs can also be indicators:

• Changes in skin texture (orange-peel appearance) around the breasts;

• Pain in the breasts or armpits;

• Breast swelling;

• Fluid discharge, or 

• Nipple alterations

Mammograms are the gold standard in breast cancer screening, detecting abnormalities even before symptoms appear. Monthly self-examinations are also crucial to identify any changes in your breasts.

5. Cervical cancer

The early stages of cervical cancer might not exhibit noticeable symptoms. However, as it progresses, signs like these might emerge:

• Unusual vaginal discharge;

• Pelvic pain;

• Pain during urination, and 

• Irregular bleeding

   

Fortunately, cervical cancer is one of the most preventable types of cancer. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccinations can protect against specific types of HPV infection that may lead to cervical cancer. This vaccine is best given before one starts any sexual activity. 

It's also recommended for women from age 25 onwards who ever had sexual activity to undergo regular Pap tests every three years. Those aged 30 years and above should go for an HPV test every five years.

6. Pancreatic cancer

Hidden deep within the abdomen, the pancreas plays a critical role in our digestive process. Yet, its deep-seated location also makes it a prime spot for pancreatic cancer to develop.

Symptoms can be as vague as:

• Loss of appetite;

• Unexplained weight loss;

• Jaundice;  

• Blood clots, or

• Change in the colour of your stools

Due to the cancer’s non-specific symptoms, early detection can be challenging. However, it’s crucial to be aware of the signs and seek medical advice when they persist.

How to prevent silent cancers

Adopting a healthy lifestyle, such as having a balanced diet, regular exercise, and ditching cigarettes, undoubtedly reduces your cancer risk.

But, leading a healthy lifestyle only eliminates some of the risks. Regular full-body health screenings are still recommended for early detection of cancer. This matters because the earlier you detect these conditions, the better your prognosis and likelihood of undergoing less aggressive treatments.

Prevention isn’t guaranteed, but protection is

Cancer treatments, medications, and potential loss of income — these are all costs stack up. 

Fortunately, Etiqa’s cancer insurance and 3 Plus Critical Illness plan act as your financial safety net when life takes an unexpected turn. These plans give a lump-sum cash payout that you can use for your most immediate needs, whether it’s for treatment or your daily expenses as you take time off work. It’s also worth noting that both plans cover you for cancer at all stages – including the early stages where it matters most.

If you’re looking to expand your coverage, 3 Plus Critical Illness also covers heart attack and stroke on top of cancer, regardless of your family history. Together, these three conditions make up 90% of critical illness claims¹. Protection doesn’t have to cost much too. With 3 Plus Critical Illness, you can get peace of mind starting from $3.55² per month.

Best of all? For a limited time only, get 30% off Etiqa Cancer Insurance³ and 50% off Etiqa 3 Plus Critical Illness⁴ plan! T&Cs apply.