365 Cancer Prevention Society Launches Free Fatty Liver Disease Screening Campaign for Lower-Income Individuals

The 365 Cancer Prevention Society (365CPS) has unveiled Singapore’s first free fatty liver disease screening campaign, “Better Liver, Better Health,” running from now until August 31, 2024. In partnership with Roche, this initiative aims to provide early detection and intervention for at-risk individuals to help manage the disease and reduce the risk of liver cancer.

Eligibility and Registration

The campaign targets Blue and Orange CHAS cardholders aged 50 to 75, who meet at least two of the following criteria: obesity (BMI > 27.5), a first-degree relative with chronic liver disease, or existing type 2 diabetes. Eligible individuals can register for the free screening campaign on the 365CPS website.

Additionally, interested participants can join a Facebook Live event on July 13 at 8:30 PM, featuring Dr. Mark Muthiah, Senior Consultant at the Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, National University Hospital. The event will cover the signs and symptoms of liver cancer, providing valuable insights into the importance of early detection.

Rising Concerns and Importance of Early Detection

Liver disease, particularly MASLD (metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease) and its more severe form, MASH (metabolic dysfunction associated steatohepatitis), commonly known as fatty liver, is on the rise globally. It is estimated that MASLD could affect 40% of the adult population in Singapore. MASLD is often associated with common metabolic conditions such as hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, and obesity. The disease is frequently asymptomatic and often detected only at advanced stages when it becomes irreversible. Without early intervention, it can progress to serious complications like end-stage liver failure and liver cancer.

Liver disease is a leading cause of liver cancer in Southeast Asia, second only to viral hepatitis. In Singapore, liver cancer is the third and fifth leading cause of cancer deaths among males and females, respectively.

Campaign Highlights

Through the “Better Liver, Better Health” screening campaign, 365CPS aims to raise awareness about the importance of liver health. Eligible individuals will undergo a sponsored fatty liver disease screening, including the Fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) blood test to assess the risk of fibrosis, and both pre- and post-screening consultations with medical partners. High-risk individuals will receive a referral letter for further follow-ups.

Get Involved and Support the Campaign

Members of the public can support the “Better Liver, Better Health” campaign through donations. Contributions can be made via Giving.sg or Give.asia. Donation options include:

• $30: Token of support for the campaign.
• $50: Medical consultation and preliminary liver disease test for one beneficiary.
• $100: Medical consultations and preliminary liver disease tests for two beneficiaries.
• $250: Complete fatty liver disease screening for one beneficiary.

All donations to 365CPS are eligible for 250% tax relief.

Partnerships and Support

The “Better Liver, Better Health” campaign is made possible through 365CPS’s collaboration with various community groups, medical partners, and social service agencies. Key partners include:

• Strategic Partner: Roche
• Supporting Partners: AstraZeneca, Icon Cancer Centre
• Screening Partner: StarMed Specialist Centre
• Community Partners: Red Cross, Tzu Chi, Cashew Constituency, Tampines Constituency

Join 365CPS in making a difference by supporting at-risk individuals through early detection and intervention of fatty liver disease. Register now for the “Better Liver, Better Health” screening campaign and contribute to a healthier community.