Stay CLEAR of Gastric Cancer Free Screening Campaign

Gastric cancer has one of the highest mortality rates in Singapore, despite being only the 7th most common cancer among men and 9th among women. The main challenge lies in late-stage diagnosis. While 90% of patients diagnosed at Stage 1 respond well to curative treatments, survival rates plunge to below 20% for those diagnosed at Stage 4. Early detection is critical and to support this, Singapore’s only free gastric cancer screening campaign, Stay CLEAR of Gastric Cancer by 365 Cancer Prevention Society, is now open for registration. Eligible individuals aged 40 and above with a valid blue or orange CHAS card, or a Public Assistance/Special Grant card, can register for the screening until 30 September 2025. 

Gastric cancer, also known as stomach cancer, usually begins in the inner lining of the stomach and can spread through the stomach wall over time. If left untreated, the cancer may reach nearby lymph nodes and spread to other organs such as the liver, lungs, and abdominal lining. According to the Singapore Cancer Registry 2022 Annual Report, close to 600 cases are diagnosed every year between 2018 and 2022.  

Gastric cancer may not exhibit noticeable signs in its early stages. As the disease progresses, individuals may experience persistent indigestion or heartburn, discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen after eating, and a feeling of bloating or fullness even after small meals. Other warning signs include a loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, nausea, or vomiting, and the presence of blood in the stools or black-coloured stools. Over 70% of gastric cancer cases in Singapore are diagnosed at advanced stages, when treatment is less effective and chances of cure are low. 

Several factors can increase the risk of developing gastric cancer. These include being over the age of 40, having a family history of stomach cancer or a medical history of chronic gastritis or stomach-related illnesses. Infection with Helicobacter pylori, a common stomach bacterium, is also a known risk factor. Lifestyle habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, a diet high in salted, pickled or smoked foods, and low in fruits and vegetables, may contribute to risk.  

Sign-up for Stay CLEAR of Gastric Cancer Screening Campaign 

To participate in the gastric cancer screening campaign, applicants can register with 365CPS by 30 September 2025 for a pre-screening consultation, followed by the GASTROClear test at 365CPS screening partners’ facilities. The clinic will schedule a review with a doctor if the test indicates abnormalities and refer patients to a public health setting if further investigation or treatment is needed.  

Stay CLEAR of Gastric Cancer screening campaign is available for individuals  

• Aged 40 years old and above 

• With a valid blue or orange CHAS card, or a Public Assistance/Special Grant card 

Eligible members of the public can fill in the registration form and find out more information on the 365CPS website: https://www.365cps.org.sg/stayclearofgastriccancer/, or reach out to 365CPS Social Service Centres. 

Make a difference to the lives of these at-risk individuals and support the efforts of 365CPS 

Members of the public who wish to support the gastric cancer screening campaign can do so via Giving.sg: https://www.giving.sg/donate/campaign/stay-clear-of-gastric-cancer 

• For $30, you will contribute your token of support towards the fight against gastric cancer. 
• For $100, your donation will cover the consultation fees for two at-risk individuals. 
• For $200, your donation will provide a consultation and blood test for one at-risk individual. 
• For $300, your donation will fully sponsor a gastric cancer screening including consultation and review for one beneficiary. 

All donations to 365CPS will be eligible for 250% tax relief. Any excess funds will be directed to supporting the Society’s tri-fold mission.