Three serious illnesses that every woman should know about

Let’s face it.

Growing up as a female, we may often face traditional gender stereotypes and additional pressure from social norms. While we champion for gender equality and equal power dynamics, it is also important to embrace the unique qualities that make us women. This means protecting ourselves against illnesses which may threaten our health.

One such illness? Breast Cancer, which occurs more commonly in women. According to MOH, breast cancer accounts for almost 30% of the cancers that affect women! Ask around your circle of friends –and you’ll likely find someone who has confronted breast cancer.

But cancer is not the only common critical illness women face.

Heart disease and stroke combined is actually the leading cause of female deaths in Singapore, more than cancer!

Sadly, many are still unaware of the dangers posed by these “silent killers”.

Pro-active actions and early detection save lives

That said, it’s not all bad news.

In recent years, technological advancements have made early detection possible. These days, women have up to 73% survival rate when breast cancer is detected at Stage 1 or Stage 2.

This involves doing both regular self-examinations and going for mammograms to check for potential lumps in your breasts, irregular dimpling of the skin, skin sores, etc.

It is recommended for all women to go for a mammogram at least once every two years before the age of 50 and if possible, every year after that age.

The adage is true – early detection does save lives.

A healthy diet, avoiding tobacco, responsible alcohol intake, and regular exercise are important self-care tips we can all follow to reduce our risk of contracting these critical illnesses.

Still, the road to recovery can be challenging

There is no doubt that facing and overcoming these critical illnesses will be tough. But there are ways to be better supported and it starts by first being aware of the challenges that may come your way.

For instance, the loss of hair from going through chemotherapy and the potential need for a mastectomy can affect the way women view themselves. But this is when support from loved ones is especially important. If necessary, you can even speak to a professional about your emotions.

But the financial impact can be equally worrying too. Chemotherapy and ongoing treatment can cost anywhere between $8,000 to $17,000 per month depending on the recovery plan. And, if you need to take a break from work or opt for a less stressful role, this may result in a loss of income which may affect the standard of living for you and your loved ones.

In addition, the hospitalisation bill for a heart bypass – a common procedure for heart attack and stroke – ranges from S$6,046 for C wards in public hospitals, to as high S$41,325 for unsubsidised A wards in public hospitals.

This figure even goes up to S$81,338 for private hospitals – and this is just the procedure alone.

While we take care of ourselves and our bodies, it is clear that we cannot neglect the financial impact of these illnesses should we be diagnosed with them.

This is why FWD introduced the Big 3 Critical Illness Insurance Plan

Critical Illness policies can be pricey, especially if you’ve just started working or have many financial responsibilities.

But here’s what makes FWD’s Big 3 Critical Illness Insurance Plan unique – it allows consumers to get affordable coverage for the top three critical illnesses from as low as 1/3 the cost¹.

Afterall, Cancer, Heart Attack and Stroke do make up 90% of critical illness claims in Singapore² .

We’ve made buying simple, with no medical examination required – just answer one quick health declaration form and you’re good to go.

The plan also pays out 100% of your sum assured upon a claim for heart attack, stroke, or all stages of cancer. This means that you can focus on recovery with lesser worry on financial implications.

It’s a comprehensive and affordable, yet simple and quick way to get yourself covered, so there’s no excuse for procrastination.

Remember, even strong women like ourselves need to be taken care of.

Learn more about our FWD Big 3 Critical Illness plan today – get a quote and purchase within minutes.