Debated in Parliament on 8 May 2017.
Assoc Prof Daniel Goh Pei Siong asked the Minister for Health with regard to the Screen for Life programme (a) what are the percentages of eligible Singaporeans who have gone for screening, by gender and age ranges; (b) what is the drop-off rate of those tested positive and do not follow up for post-screening consultation; and (c) how is the need for post-screening consultation assessed for the enhanced programme.
Prevention is a key strategy in our war on diabetes. Besides healthy eating and frequent exercise, it is also important for Singaporeans to go for regular health screening.
Based on the 2016 Health Behaviour Surveillance of Singapore survey conducted by the Health Promotion Board, 78% of Singaporeans aged 40 to 69 had gone for basic health screening in the past three years for high blood pressure, high blood lipids and diabetes. This was an improvement from the 73% in 2010. There was no significant difference by gender. Older Singaporeans are more likely to go for chronic disease screening than their younger cohorts. Among those who have abnormal screening results, a significant proportion do not follow up to see a doctor.
The need for post-screening consultation is assessed based on factors like the health screening results, as well as individual and family risk factors.
The Ministry of Health is enhancing our health screening programmes to achieve two objectives. First, we want to encourage more Singaporeans who meet the age and risk criteria to go for screening. Next, we want to encourage those who receive abnormal screening results, for example, those who are tested positive for diabetes or who are pre-diabetic, to follow up to see a doctor.
Ultimately, each person has to decide whether he or she wants to go for health screening and the follow-up consultation. While the Government will provide support and encouragement, individuals must also take responsibility for their own health.
PAPERCUTS