KUALA LUMPUR: Breast cancer remains one of the deadliest silent killers around the world, and it is the most prevalent type of cancer in Malaysia.
However, with the help of the National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM), Malaysia has achieved a significant milestone. They have successfully conducted 6,600 breast cancer screenings within a month as part of their Pink Unity 6600 Campaign to commemorate 66 years of Malaysia’s independence.
The screenings took place from October 4 to November 4. The campaign received recognition from the Malaysia Book of Records for “Conducting the Most Breast Cancer Screenings in a Campaign” during the closing ceremony on Sunday, November 5.
Various screening methods were utilized during the campaign, including Clinical Breast Examination (CBE), Mammogram, Ultrasound Breast, and the handheld breast screening medical device I-Breast. These screenings were conducted at different locations across the country.
Dr. Murallitharan Munisamy, the managing director of the National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM), emphasized the importance of introducing I-Breast into several clinics earlier in August. This initiative provided Malaysians with an early warning indicator.
He mentioned that more than 50% of Malaysian cancer patients are diagnosed at stages 3 or 4, which often limits treatment options. Malaysians are generally reluctant to spend money on voluntary full health screenings at hospitals. However, with I-Breast, the detection of breast cancer becomes more affordable and convenient as women can undergo screening at local clinics.
The event was attended by V. Sivakumar, the Human Resources Minister, who commended the campaign’s accomplishments. He acknowledged that cancer is one of the health issues that can force people to retire from the workforce, particularly if it is detected in the late stages.
With this campaign, women all over the country now have a proactive option to protect their health and continue their careers by detecting and treating potential cancers early.
Wan-Amir Jeffrey, the commercial chief executive officer of Duopharma Biotech Bhd, a local pharmaceutical company, expressed their intention to expand the number of clinics equipped with I-Breast. Currently, 48 clinics have the device, but their goal is to increase it to over 100 clinics nationwide by July next year.
