In Singapore, health screening is an essential part of preventive care, helping individuals detect potential health issues early. While standard screening panels cover basics like blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels, many clinics offer health screening add-ons to provide deeper insights into specific risks based on age, gender, lifestyle, or family history.

This article explores the top 10 most common health screening add-on tests in Singapore, helping you decide which are necessary based on your personal health profile. These add-ons often detect hidden or early-stage diseases, contributing to better long-term outcomes when detected early.

1. Cancer Marker Screening

Health screening add-ons for cancer markers detect substances in blood or tissues that may indicate cancer. These are especially recommended for individuals with a family history of cancer or those above 40 years of age.

Common tumour marker add-on tests:

• AFP (Alpha-fetoprotein): Liver cancer

• CEA (Carcinoembryonic antigen): Colorectal cancer

• PSA (Prostate-specific antigen): Prostate cancer

• CA 125: Ovarian cancer (for women)

• CA 19-9: Pancreatic and gastrointestinal cancers

These markers don’t diagnose cancer on their own but serve as red flags that warrant further investigation. They are among the most requested health screening add-ons in Singapore.

2. HbA1c Test (Glycated Hemoglobin)

This is a vital health screening add-on for monitoring long-term blood sugar levels. Unlike fasting glucose tests, HbA1c reflects your average blood glucose over the past 2 to 3 months.

Who should get it?

• Individuals with risk factors for diabetes (family history, obesity, sedentary lifestyle)

• Those who want to assess diabetes control beyond fasting tests

According to MOH Singapore, early detection of diabetes can help reduce complications like kidney failure, stroke, and heart disease.

3. Thyroid Function Test (TSH, T3, T4)

The thyroid regulates metabolism, mood, and energy. Dysfunction can be subtle but has widespread effects.

Key thyroid panel components:

• TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone)

• Free T4 (Thyroxine)

• Free T3 (Triiodothyronine)

Thyroid abnormalities, especially hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, are prevalent among women. Hence, thyroid function screening is a commonly chosen health screening add-on, particularly in women above 35.

4. Vitamin D Level Test

With increasing awareness of vitamin D's role in bone health, immunity, and even mental well-being, this test has become one of the fastest-growing health screening add-ons.

Why it matters:

• Singaporeans may be vitamin D deficient despite sun exposure due to indoor lifestyles and sunscreen use.

• Deficiency is linked to fatigue, muscle weakness, and poor bone density.

5. Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) Antibody Test

This bacterium, found in the stomach, is a known cause of:

• Gastritis

• Stomach ulcers

• Increased risk of gastric cancer

The H. pylori test (blood or urea breath test) is a useful add-on to health screening for people with persistent indigestion or family history of gastric issues.

6. Stool Occult Blood Test (FOBT)

This test detects hidden blood in the stool — a potential early sign of colorectal cancer, especially valuable for adults aged 50 and above.

It is a non-invasive and inexpensive health screening add-on. When combined with CEA tumour marker tests, it enhances early detection of colon cancer.

7. Bone Mineral Density Test (BMD)

Bone health becomes a priority after 40, especially in post-menopausal women and older adults at risk of osteoporosis.

Why include it?

• Osteoporosis has no symptoms until a fracture occurs.

• BMD scanning (via DEXA) helps measure bone strength and prevent complications from falls.

The BMD test is a valuable add-on to health screenings targeting musculoskeletal health.

8. Urine Microalbumin Test

This test detects small amounts of protein in urine, often the earliest sign of kidney damage, especially in:

• Diabetics

• Hypertensive patients

While routine urinalysis checks for large protein presence, urine microalbumin offers more sensitive detection and is a crucial health screening add-on for chronic disease management.

9. Liver Function Test (LFT)

Although a basic liver panel may be included in most standard screenings, extended LFTs check for:

• Bilirubin levels

• ALT/AST enzyme ratios

• Alkaline phosphatase

These parameters are important for people with:

• High alcohol consumption

• Fatty liver risk

• Hepatitis history

Including an advanced liver function panel as a health screening add-on supports early diagnosis of liver disease.

10. Testosterone Level Test (Men)

As men age, testosterone levels naturally decline. This can affect energy, muscle mass, mood, libido, and even mental clarity. A testosterone test is a valuable health screening add-on for men over 40 or those experiencing symptoms of low testosterone.

Symptoms of low testosterone:

Fatigue or lack of motivation

Decreased muscle strength

Reduced libido or sexual performance

Mood swings or mild depression

Why add it?

Testosterone deficiency (also known as andropause) is underdiagnosed.

Early detection allows for lifestyle changes or medical interventions to improve quality of life.

[Infographic Recap: Top 10 Health Screening Add-Ons in Singapore]

How to Choose the Right Health Screening Add-On?

Here are some helpful tips:

Are Add-Ons Always Necessary?

While health screening add-ons offer great insight, not everyone needs all 10 tests. They should be tailored to your risk profile, age, and pre-existing conditions. For instance:

• Young adults in their 20s may not need cancer markers.

• Individuals with poor sleep, fatigue, or low energy might benefit from thyroid or vitamin D screening.

• If you have high blood pressure or diabetes, kidney-related add-ons like microalbumin are highly recommended.

Discuss your results with a healthcare provider to ensure appropriate interpretation.

Where Can You Get Customisable Health Screening Packages?

Most public and private clinics in Singapore offer standard and expanded packages. If you're seeking accessible, customisable health screening with expert GP consultation, visit www.neesoonclinic.sg/yishun-health-screening.

At Nee Soon Clinic, you can:

• Select a core screening bundle based on age/gender

• Add on only what is medically relevant

• Receive guidance from doctors on interpreting results

Their approach ensures affordable and relevant health screening add-ons, without overselling unnecessary tests.

Conclusion

Choosing the right health screening add-on can help detect silent issues early and prevent complications. These tests aren’t just about ticking boxes — they empower you to take charge of your health proactively.

In summary, the 10 most common health screening add-ons are:

1. Cancer marker tests

2. HbA1c test

3. Thyroid function panel

4. Vitamin D level test

5. H. pylori test

6. Stool occult blood test

7. Bone mineral density scan

8. Urine microalbumin test

9. Liver function test

10. Testosterone level test (for men)

For personalised recommendations, visit www.neesoonclinic.sg/yishun-health-screening to explore your options today.

Disclaimer:The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The content is not intended to be a comprehensive source of information and should not be relied upon as such. Reliance on any information provided in this article is solely at your own risk. The authors and the publisher do not endorse or recommend any specific tests, physicians, products, procedures, opinions, or other information that may be mentioned in the article. Any reliance on the information in this article is solely at the reader's own risk.