Latest news with #NationalCancerSocietyMalaysia
Asia News Network
12 hours ago
- Health
- Asia News Network
Most Malaysian women still unaware of risks of cervical cancer, HPV
July 23, 2025 PETALING JAYA – The biggest barrier to preventing cervical cancer and human papillomavirus (HPV) is the failure to recognise personal risk, says Prof Dr Murallitharan Munisamy. The National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM) managing director said many women wrongly believe they are not at risk because they feel healthy. 'The gap lies in the perception that I'm healthy, so I don't see the need for vaccination or screening. 'Another issue is ignorance – many assume HPV is only spread through sex, and since they have only one partner, they believe they're not at risk,' he said. He was responding to Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad's statement that more than 10,500 Malaysian women tested positive for HPV over the past five years through cervical cancer screening efforts. Dr Murallitharan also said many women are willing to spend on spas or beauty treatments but hesitate to invest in health screenings or vaccinations. He said following the success of the 'Leaving No One Behind' HPV vaccination programme last year, NCSM plans to partner with general practitioners to offer 70% subsidies for screenings. 'We are changing our approach. Instead of waiting for patients to come to us, we'll go to them,' he said. Echoing the concern, Malaysian Council for Child Welfare advisor Datuk Dr Raj Abdul Karim said many women do not take their health seriously enough. 'Many women don't realise that silent blood pressure or diabetes affects your health and even cancer can be invisible at times. 'As such, we need more advocacy and programmes for women on this, to emphasise that even if they feel well, they still need to get screening,' she added. She said the HPV vaccine can prevent high-risk strains linked to cervical cancer. 'So we need to accelerate the intake of the vaccine and have access to more screening among women, since cervical cancer is preventable,' she added. Dr Raj also recommended regular Pap smears for women aged 20 to 50, especially those who are sexually active. She said HPV DNA self-sampling could help eliminate cultural taboos and expand access for rural and vulnerable groups. Women's Aid Organisation executive director Nazreen Nizam said the conversation must shift from blaming women to addressing the systemic inequalities that limit access to healthcare. She said despite the introduction of the HPV vaccine in 2019, the lack of consistent and widespread public education has left many women unaware of its importance or how to access it. 'The government must invest in sustained, multilingual and culturally relevant public awareness campaigns, and ensure that screening services and vaccines are free or subsidised for all women, regardless of their citizenship or location. 'One possibility is to introduce age-based automatic subsidies for screenings, integrated into existing public healthcare systems and even GP clinics, so that it becomes part of routine care. 'But access alone isn't enough – the healthcare environment must also be safe, non-judgmental and respectful of women's autonomy and lived realities,' she said. HPV is the leading cause of cervical cancer, and any sexually active person can contract it. In Malaysia, cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women aged 15 to 44.
The Star
17 hours ago
- Health
- The Star
Most Malaysian women still unaware
PETALING JAYA: The biggest barrier to preventing cervical cancer and human papillomavirus (HPV) is the failure to recognise personal risk, says Prof Dr Murallitharan Munisamy. The National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM) managing director said many women wrongly believe they are not at risk because they feel healthy. 'The gap lies in the perception that I'm healthy, so I don't see the need for vaccination or screening. 'Another issue is ignorance – many assume HPV is only spread through sex, and since they have only one partner, they believe they're not at risk,' he said. He was responding to Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad's statement that more than 10,500 Malaysian women tested positive for HPV over the past five years through cervical cancer screening efforts. Dr Murallitharan also said many women are willing to spend on spas or beauty treatments but hesitate to invest in health screenings or vaccinations. He said following the success of the 'Leaving No One Behind' HPV vaccination programme last year, NCSM plans to partner with general practitioners to offer 70% subsidies for screenings. 'We are changing our approach. Instead of waiting for patients to come to us, we'll go to them,' he said. Echoing the concern, Malaysian Council for Child Welfare advisor Datuk Dr Raj Abdul Karim said many women do not take their health seriously enough. 'Many women don't realise that silent blood pressure or diabetes affects your health and even cancer can be invisible at times. 'As such, we need more advocacy and programmes for women on this, to emphasise that even if they feel well, they still need to get screening,' she added. She said the HPV vaccine can prevent high-risk strains linked to cervical cancer. 'So we need to accelerate the intake of the vaccine and have access to more screening among women, since cervical cancer is preventable,' she added. Dr Raj also recommended regular Pap smears for women aged 20 to 50, especially those who are sexually active. She said HPV DNA self-sampling could help eliminate cultural taboos and expand access for rural and vulnerable groups. Women's Aid Organisation executive director Nazreen Nizam said the conversation must shift from blaming women to addressing the systemic inequalities that limit access to healthcare. She said despite the introduction of the HPV vaccine in 2019, the lack of consistent and widespread public education has left many women unaware of its importance or how to access it. 'The government must invest in sustained, multilingual and culturally relevant public awareness campaigns, and ensure that screening services and vaccines are free or subsidised for all women, regardless of their citizenship or location. 'One possibility is to introduce age-based automatic subsidies for screenings, integrated into existing public healthcare systems and even GP clinics, so that it becomes part of routine care. 'But access alone isn't enough – the healthcare environment must also be safe, non-judgmental and respectful of women's autonomy and lived realities,' she said. HPV is the leading cause of cervical cancer, and any sexually active person can contract it. In Malaysia, cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women aged 15 to 44.
The Sun
05-07-2025
- Health
- The Sun
Aftercare crucial to help smokers quit
BY DEEPALAKSHMI MANICKAM PETALING JAYA: For Malaysians trying to quit smoking, the battle does not end with stubbing out the final cigarette. In fact, that is only the beginning. Without proper aftercare, powerful withdrawal symptoms and daily triggers could pull even the most determined quitters back into nicotine addiction within days. National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM) managing director Dr Murallitharan M. said common withdrawal symptoms could overwhelm quitters. 'These include cravings for cigarettes, insomnia, fatigue, irritability, anxiety, depressed mood, impatience, hunger and difficulty concentrating,' he said, adding that such symptoms could increase the probability of relapse and lower motivation. 'These issues could disrupt daily functioning, strain personal relationships and even impact career prospects, while a relapse continues the financial burden.' Murallitharan said nicotine replacement therapies (NRT), such as nicotine patches, gums and sprays, help reduce the withdrawal effects by delivering nicotine safely. 'Evidence shows that all forms of NRT increase the chances of a successful quit attempt by 50% to 70%,' he said, recommending consistent daily use for at least three months. However, medication alone is not sufficient. 'Many quit-smoking attempts fail because of intense withdrawal symptoms, deeply ingrained habits, strong environmental triggers like peer pressure and the use of smoking as a way to cope with stress,' he said, adding that structured aftercare is crucial in addressing such challenges. 'Counselling, support groups and consistent follow-up sustain motivation and self-efficacy,' he said, stressing the importance of developing coping strategies and managing persistent challenges before relapse occurs. The Health Ministry, in collaboration with civil society groups, has introduced the STAR (Situation, Task, Actions, Result) method to guide quitting efforts, he said. 'It involves setting a quit date, informing family and friends, anticipating challenges and removing tobacco products from surroundings.' He added that after the first consultation, follow-up appointments are recommended within a week of the quit date, then weekly during the first month, every two weeks in the second and third months and then monthly up to six months. 'A quit rate is usually defined by how many people remain abstinent for at least six months after they attempt to quit.' He said NCSM has been working with the Health Ministry to expand access to support services. 'Digital approaches such as JomQuit could help sustain engagement through virtual consultations.' He said the JomSihat initiative educates the public about smoking and vaping dangers, while JomLapor empowers the community to report tobacco-related violations. He also said while public health campaigns have effectively promoted the decision to quit, the focus on aftercare should be equally strong. 'Malaysia's public health messaging is commendable in encouraging quitting as a first step towards a smoke-free life, but this is not a burden for the ministry alone.' Murallitharan stressed that public support is essential. 'We implore the public to help smokers of any age stay quit.' He also pointed to a widespread misconception that vaping is a safer alternative. 'Vaping is not a better option,' he stressed, warning that experts have yet to fully understand its long-term impact. 'Data shows that 3.9% of Malaysian adults are dual users of tobacco and e-cigarettes, which proves that many are failing to quit nicotine altogether. 'A better alternative to quit smoking is to not smoke at all,' he said. Citing data from the Global Adult Tobacco Survey 2025, Murallitharan noted that 49.3% of Malaysian smokers attempted to quit last year. 'With proper aftercare, far more could succeed,' he said. He added that the ministry's mQuit services, Klinik Kesihatan, hospitals and the MySejahtera app make these resources easier to access. He encouraged families, employers and the wider community to help reinforce these efforts. 'Together, we can give every Malaysian a better chance to quit for good.'
The Star
22-06-2025
- Health
- The Star
Free medical camp for underprivileged families at Cheras apartment
CHERAS: A FREE medical camp by Rotary Clubs at Pangsapuri Suakasih in Cheras, Selangor, brought much-needed healthcare services and awareness to underprivileged urban families. It was held in collaboration with the Health Ministry, National Cancer Society Malaysia and Balakong assemblyman service centre, among others. At the event held yesterday (June 21), residents could sign up for health screening and consultations which included blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol, hepatitis B and C, eye checks and breast exams, among others. To boost community emergency preparedness, Rotary Clubs also donated an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). There was also a demonstration for residents to learn how to use AED and perform basic life-saving techniques such as CPR. Guest of honour Bangi MP Syahredzan Johan expressed his appreciation for grassroots healthcare and preventive initiatives. There was also a colouring contest to help raise awareness among children on dengue prevention and raising awareness on symptoms. Also present were Pangsapuri Suakasih joint management body secretary chairman M Khair Johari Ismail, secretary Hamidah Abdul Rahman and treasurer Mohamed Noorzaman Ismail. Other guests were Hulu Langat health district officer Dr Norsafinaz Mohamed and Rotary past district governor Teoh Kwan See.
The Star
17-06-2025
- Business
- The Star
Theta Edge bags RM4.4mil mobile x-ray contract from NCSM
PETALING JAYA: Theta Edge Bhd has accepted a letter of award from the National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM) for the provision of mobile X-ray equipment worth RM4.38mil. In a filing with Bursa Malaysia, the software company said the X-ray equipment comes with cloud-based connectivity and built-in artificial intelligence for diagnostics and related services based on a usage-based model. 'The contract scope includes procurement, supply, installation, and maintenance of mobile X-ray equipment at NCSM facilities. 'The contract shall be for a period of five years commencing from June 20, 2025.' The company added that the contract is expected to contribute positively to the net assets and earnings per share of Theta and its group of companies for the financial year ending Dec 31, 2025 and onwards until the termination of the contract. 'The company does not foresee any exceptional risk other than the normal operational risks associated with the Contract during the contract period. Nevertheless, the company will take the necessary steps to mitigate the risks as and when they occur.'
