5 days ago
Malaysian breast cancer cases doubled: Expert
Published on: Wednesday, August 06, 2025
Published on: Wed, Aug 06, 2025
By: Lorena Binisol Text Size: Panel of speakers at the Breast Cancer Wellness campaign. Kota Kinabalu: Malaysia is seeing a worrying rise in breast cancer cases, especially those detected at late stages. Health experts and advocates are urging for stronger awareness and better screening efforts to help save lives. This was conveyed at the 2025 Breast Health and Wellness Campaign held at Horizon Hotel, here. Kapayan assemblywoman Datuk Jannie Lasimbang officiated the event, which was jointly organised by the Pink Ribbon Wellness Foundation and Kinabalu Pink Ribbon.
Advertisement Leading the call to action was Datuk Dr. M. Devanand, consultant breast surgeon and founder of the Pink Ribbon Wellness Foundation, who said breast cancer cases have increased from 3,000 a year two decades ago to 8,400 today. Even more concerning, nearly 48 per cent of cases are diagnosed at stage 3 or stage 4, when treatment becomes more difficult and survival rates drop. He said that late-stage detection has risen from 43 per cent to 53 per cent over the past 20 years, based on data from the Ministry of Health. 'Despite all efforts, we're still not preventing enough cases or detecting them early,' he said.
Advertisement While breast cancer deaths have slightly decreased, the number of late detections remains high. It's estimated that at least seven women die from breast cancer every day in Malaysia, though the actual number may be higher due to underreporting. It was noted no current data is available for Sabah, and the only statistics provided by the Ministry of Health date back to 2016, which are outdated and limit the ability to track progress or changes accurately. Dr. Devanand highlighted that early-stage breast cancer is easier and more affordable to treat, with a survival rate close to 99 per cent or even 100 per cent. However, when diagnosed at stage 3 or stage 4, treatment becomes not only costly and complex but also emotionally overwhelming for patients, many begin to lose hope. 'This is where organisations like the Pink Ribbon Foundation and Kinabalu Pink Ribbon (KPR) play a critical role. We offer not just assistance but emotional strength, guidance and survivorship support to help women reclaim their will to fight,' he said. He also stressed that daily lifestyle choices such as maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and personal hygiene can greatly influence outcomes. 'Simple everyday habits can have a real impact in reducing risk,' he added. The Pink Ribbon Programme is focusing on education and community outreach. The programme encourages routine mammograms for women aged 40 and above and ultrasound screenings for younger women. It also teaches people about breast cancer risks and symptoms to help catch the disease earlier. The campaign also supports survivors, helping them learn how to live well after diagnosis. 'Education is our strongest tool. The risk isn't going away, but with early detection and proper care, we can change the outcome,' he said. Lasimbang, who is a breast cancer survivor, spoke about the importance of supporting women's health. 'We must never forget the strength and courage of breast cancer fighters. They are symbols of hope,' she said. She praised the efforts of the Pink Ribbon Foundation and KPR for handing out RM350 in financial aid to 20 patients, helping ease the cost of treatment. As a policymaker, she promised to keep fighting for better health policies for women, especially in rural and underserved areas. She also highlighted the important role of NGOs as partners in improving healthcare access. Among those present were Dato' Dr Ibrahim Wahid, oncology specialist and council member of the Pink Ribbon Wellness Foundation, Assunta Carolina Antonysamy, council member, Laura Pua, foundation official, Datin Lucilla Pang, founder of KPR, Yong Lee Lee, founder and honorary CEO of the Pink Ribbon Wellness Foundation, Christy Fe Salazar, president of KPR, Yvonne Dumpangol, vice president and breast cancer survivors from across Sabah. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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