Insurance

Can You Still Buy VHIS with Fibroadenoma?

Author Bowtie Team

Updated on 2025-06-19

Disclaimer: This article is translated with the assistance of AI.

Wondering if fibroadenoma affects your VHIS eligibility? Find out about potential extra premiums and get the inside scoop on Bowtie’s underwriting criteria from our experts.

What is a Fibroadenoma?

Fibroadenomas are common benign breast tumors found in women of childbearing age, especially those under 30. However, if you notice a lump in your breast, it’s wise to consult a doctor first to rule out the possibility of breast cancer.

How to Prevent Breast Cancer?

According to the Cancer Online Resource Center information , the risk factors for women developing breast cancer are mostly related to lifestyle, including:

Lack of physical activity
Drinking alcohol
Obesity after menopause
Aging
Never having given birth, having your first child later (after age 30), or never having breastfed
Starting menstruation early (before age 12) or experiencing menopause late (after age 55)
Having a history of breast cancer or ovarian cancer
Having a history of benign breast disease or ductal carcinoma in situ
Currently undergoing hormone replacement therapy
Currently taking combined oral contraceptives

Additionally, the following women are also at a higher risk of developing breast cancer:

Having a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, especially if a first-degree relative was diagnosed before age 50
Carrying certain gene mutations in your personal or family history, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes
Having undergone radiation therapy to the chest before age 30

Key Underwriting Considerations for Fibroadenoma

1. Results of breast imaging tests (such as ultrasound or 3D mammography)?

We assess whether the breast imaging report shows any suspicious features and the BI-RADS classification, such as if the lesion edges are clear, the shape is regular, there is axillary lymph node enlargement, BI-RADS classification, and so on.

2. Results of biopsy or needle aspiration?

If a biopsy or needle aspiration has been performed, we evaluate the diagnostic results from that tissue/pathology test.

3. What treatments has the insured undergone (including medications or surgery)?

We assess the treatment methods the insured has undergone, such as surgery. If surgery was performed to remove the tissue, we consider the diagnostic results from that tissue/pathology test.

4. Has the insured fully recovered? Are there any aftereffects or complications?

We consider the extent of the insured’s recovery, such as the date of full recovery, and whether there are any aftereffects or complications.

Breast Fibroadenoma Underwriting Results

1. Successful Application

If the breast fibroadenoma has been surgically removed, fully recovered for the specified period (for example, 1 year), and there are no lingering issues, you can get covered at standard premium rates.

2. Successful Application, but with Increased Premium and/or Exclusions

If the breast fibroadenoma hasn’t been surgically removed, and the most recent breast imaging report shows no suspicious features with no malignant risk and no need for surgery, the insurance company might still approve your application. However, they could increase the premium (often called adding a loading) and/or include some exclusions based on these factors.

3. Direct Declination

In the following situations, we may reject the policy application for the relevant insured:

Breast imaging report has suspicious features or a higher-level BI-RADS classification (for example: BI-RADS 4)
Accompanied by sequelae or complications
Currently waiting for surgery or further testing

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Author

Bowtie Team

The Bowtie Life Insurance Company Limited is an authorized life insurance company and Hong Kong’s very first virtual insurer approved. Through the use of modern technology and medical expertise, Bowtie offers an agent-free, commission-free and more convenient online platform for customers to quote, apply and claim for Voluntary Health Insurance Scheme (VHIS) anytime anywhere. Bowtie is ranked first in the direct channel sales throughout 2021. Stay up to date at www.bowtie.com.hk