In an analysis conducted by the Breast Cancer Welfare Association Malaysia (BCWA) it was discovered that breast cancer screening rates in Malaysia were critically low because most women avoid the issue.

Not only in Malaysia, but according to BCWA, a recent Hologic Global Women’s Health Index report, which is a multiyear global survey, revealed an alarming trend of decline in cancer testing worldwide.

But BCWA’s outreach programmes are yielding results. In 2024, the organisation conducted 7,652 free clinical breast examinations which detected 338 abnormal findings, hence highlighting the importance of early detection.

The National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM) is working in collaboration with the Health Ministry to develop a national database to track screening across NGOs, private hospitals and public healthcare facilities.

NCSM’s national screening efforts indicate that participation is lowest in the east coast states and Sabah and Sarawak as healthcare facilities and trained personnel are scarce with accessibility being a major barrier.

As such NCSM has launched the ‘Leave No One Behind’ campaign, supported by corporate sponsors, offering free human papillomavirus vaccines to help eliminate cervical cancer which has so far benefitted over 300,000 Malaysians.

-THE MALAYSIA VOICE