By DayakDaily Team
DALAT, June 2: Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers affecting women in Malaysia, yet many patients are still only diagnosed when the disease has reached an advanced stage, underscoring the urgent need to strengthen awareness on early detection through regular screening for both breast and cervical cancers.
In a Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) news, Minister for Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development, Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah, said this highlights the importance of continuous efforts to encourage women to undergo health screenings, as early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates.
She said access to quality healthcare services must also be further expanded to ensure that its benefits reach all segments of society, including those in rural and remote areas.
“The encouraging response received throughout the Breast Cancer and HPV DNA Screening Programme demonstrates a growing level of public awareness on the importance of healthcare and disease prevention,” she said when officiating the closing ceremony of the programme held at the Kampung Sungai Kut Muara Futsal Court in Dalat on Monday (June 1).
Fatimah noted that breast cancer continues to be among the most prevalent cancers affecting women in Malaysia, but many cases are still detected late, reducing the effectiveness of treatment.
“This situation reduces the chances of patients receiving more effective treatment. Therefore, efforts to promote early detection through screening programmes must continue to be strengthened,” she added.
She emphasised that outreach initiatives by the Sarawak Breast Cancer Support Group (SBCSG) play a vital role in bridging the gap in healthcare access, particularly by bringing health information, clinical breast examinations, and early screening services closer to rural communities.
On cervical cancer, she said it remains a serious health concern for women, with Sarawak recording one of the higher incidence rates in the country.
“HPV DNA screening is a key tool for early detection, while also helping women better understand their health risks and take timely preventive action,” she added.
Fatimah also urged women not to neglect their health and to make regular medical check-ups a routine practice for the wellbeing of their families.
At the event, she expressed appreciation to healthcare personnel from the Dalat Maternal and Child Health Clinic and the Mukah Divisional Health Office for their commitment in ensuring the success of the programme.
She stressed that strong collaboration between non-governmental organisations, health agencies, and the Sarawak government must continue to be reinforced to expand awareness and early detection efforts.
She also commended SBCSG for its continued dedication in promoting breast cancer awareness through health education, campaigns, and patient support initiatives. — DayakDaily
