MELAKA: Dr M. Murallitharan stated that the Covid-19 pandemic has caused challenges for many cancer patients in receiving timely screenings that could have helped detect their illness at an early stage. He explained that this was mainly due to difficulties in accessing screenings and treatments at hospitals during the peak of the pandemic. Most of the affected patients are suffering from breast or colon cancer, he added. Dr Murallitharan expressed his concerns about the significant impact on early cancer detection in the country since 90% of the cancer patients he has treated are at stage three or four, which is alarming.
During a press conference on September 6, Dr Murallitharan emphasized the need for proactive efforts to address the expected increase in the number of late-diagnosed cancer patients over the next five years. He suggested providing early screening access across various levels, including the community and government agencies. Moreover, the National Cancer Society of Malaysia (NCSM) has implemented early diagnosis programs, particularly in rural areas, and has organized more awareness programs on cancer and early detection to enhance the treatment processes.
Dr Murallitharan shared an observation regarding a slight increase in the number of colon cancer patients, especially among men in their early 40s compared to previous cases involving those in their 50s. During the event, singer Dr Sam Rasputin supported cancer survivors by performing his 1986 hit song “Saya Anak Malaysia” and encouraged his fans to appreciate racial harmony in the country. The gathering included Melaka entrepreneur, cooperative development, and consumer affairs committee chairman Allex Seah Shoo Chin. Additionally, a new video of the song, which took three weeks to produce, was launched at the Bayou Lagoon Park Resort in Bukit Katil. The video featured the participation of over 60 volunteers and cancer survivors from Kuala Lumpur, Kedah, Perak, and Melaka.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
