Breast cancer is a journey that many women (and men) face, affecting not just the individual diagnosed, but their families and loved ones as well. As one navigates through the complexities of treatment, emotional turmoil, and lifestyle changes, a strong support system becomes paramount. One of the most effective and nurturing sources of support is a breast cancer support group. No one should fight cancer alone. Being part of a supportive community can significantly alleviate feelings of isolation.

Breast cancer support groups in Singapore provide a safe space for individuals affected by breast cancer—whether patients, survivors, or caregivers—to come together, share experiences, and offer mutual support. These groups work in various ways, including in-person meetings, workshops, and online forums, making them accessible to a broader audience. They not only facilitate emotional sharing but also aim to empower members through knowledge about breast cancer treatments and resources available in Singapore.

The Benefits of Joining Support Groups

1. Emotional Support: The emotional turmoil that one has to go through upon diagnosis is overwhelming and unimaginable, not to mention the following treatment. The person who can best understand and acknowledge the challenges is non other than fellow survivors that have walked through the same journey before. Support groups offer emotional solace by creating a safe space for individuals to share their fears, frustrations, and triumphs. While mental health discussions are gradually becoming more open, mental strength is essential for one to fight against cancer. Being supported by someone whom have fought well and won the battle somewhat give the patients confidence to win over theirs.
2. Information and Resources: Support groups are valuable sources of information about breast cancer treatments, recent research, and local healthcare providers. In Singapore, where healthcare access can sometimes be complex, members gain insights into navigating medical facilities and understanding their treatment options.
3. Practical Advice: Practical advice best came from Experts by Profession and “Expert by Experience" a.k.a. patients/survivors. Educational talks, forums, workshops by professional experts offer invaluable knowledge on health well-being and lifestyle adjustment. While group members often share practical insights from their experiences, such as coping strategies for managing side effects, tips for maintaining a positive outlook. Combination of both helps patients to improve their quality of life, balancing treatment with daily life in Singapore's fast-paced environment. Some even get to develop new hobby, found new purpose in life and thrive in personal growth. Living the best of their life with cancer.
4. Sisterhood by Choice: The friendships formed in these groups can play a vital role in recovery. Members develop bonds beyond their illness, providing ongoing companionship, cheering and inspiring each other throughout their breast cancer journeys and beyond.
5. Giving Back to the Community: Support group offers opportunity for one to give back to the Community. From lending a shoulder to a fellow patients, to volunteering in projects and events that helps promote awareness and care to the community, such as Knitted Knocker (breast prostheses) for mastectomy patients.
6. Advocacy and Awareness: Support group plays a very important role in raising awareness about breast cancer prevention, screening, early detection, and treatment within the Singaporean community. Events like Pink October or fundraising walks not only promote camaraderie but also provide a platform to the larger and more open conversation about breast cancer. Patient Partners/Advocate gives a strong voice in lobbying for better healthcare policies, in the effort of shaping a more inclusive and equitable access healthcare system in Singapore.

Types of Support Groups in Singapore

Breast cancer support groups in Singapore can vary in focus and structure:

1. General Support Groups: These are open to anyone affected by breast cancer and often discuss a wide range of topics, including mental wellness, treatment experiences, and lifestyle adjustments.
2. Specialized Groups: Some groups cater to specific populations. For instance, young women facing breast cancer may benefit from a tailored approach to discussions relevant to their unique concerns.
3. Online Support Groups: For those seeking flexibility, online support platforms are available. These forums allow members to connect from different parts of Singapore or even abroad, fostering a sense of community regardless of physical distance.

Advocacy in Singaporean Healthcare

The integration of advocacy into support group activities is crucial for promoting better care and patient experiences. Patient Voices is gaining more spotlights in Singapore, many breast cancer advocacy groups and healthcare institutions collaborate with healthcare professionals, industry members and policymakers to address pressing issues like access to care, affordability of treatments, the importance of early screening and supporting patients returning to workplace.

1. Raising Awareness: Advocacy campaigns can help educate the public about breast cancer risk factors, symptoms, and the importance of regular screenings emphasizing early detection to increases survival rates and can transform treatment outcomes.
2. Access to Care: Support groups can advocate for policies that improve access to mental health resources, counseling services, and financial assistance for those undergoing treatment. In Singapore, this is particularly important as navigating healthcare can often entail various costs and logistical challenges.
3. Promoting Research: Many support groups engage with organizations to promote research and development in breast cancer treatment. By advocating for funding and support for research projects, they contribute to the advancement of treatment options and preventive measures.

If you wish to join the NHG Breast Cancer Support Group, please approach our breast nurses.

If you would to support and show solidarity click here - NHG Breast Cancer Support Group.

Some of our activities planned for 2025 include:

Event	Date / Month	Location
Art Jam	8 March 2025	Woodlands Health
Nature Walk	(March 2025)
Educational Talk and Physical Work Out	(April 2025)	Tan Tock Seng Hospital
NHG Breast Support Group, troupe at Pink Ribbon Walk 2025	October 2025	TBC
Christmas Gift Xchange	December 2025	Tan Tock Heng Hospital