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Asia News Network
7 days 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
7 days 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.
Time of India
05-07-2025
- Science
- Time of India
Planetarium to get observatory dome, telescope
Patna: In a move aimed at enhancing scientific engagement and promoting astronomy education, deputy CM Samrat Choudhary on Saturday announced that an observatory dome and an additional telescope will soon be installed at the planetarium here. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The project, estimated at Rs 99 lakh, is set to be executed through the National Council of Science Museums (NCSM), Kolkata, an autonomous body under the Union ministry of culture. The initiative has been proposed by the Bihar Council on Science and Technology and also includes a consultation fee of Rs 14 lakh. The NCSM had earlier supplied a telescope to the planetarium. Calling the project a significant step towards nurturing scientific curiosity, Choudhary said, "This is an important initiative by the state government aimed at fostering scientific thinking and research aptitude among the youth of the state." He added that the modernisation of the planetarium would not only raise scientific awareness among the general public, particularly young people, but also deepen the interest of science students in astronomy.
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
04-07-2025
- Sport
- The Star
MST Golf Community Golf Day raises over RM25,000 for cancer awareness
MST Golf Southern Community Golf Day. SUBANG JAYA: The scenic fairways of Palm Resort Golf and Country Club were filled not only with powerful drives and steady putts, but also with purpose, generosity and community spirit as golfers gathered for MST Golf's Southern Community Golf Day 2025. The event united over 110 golfers through a shared passion for the game and a common mission to raise funds and awareness for cancer screening among underserved communities. Organised by MST Golf in collaboration with key brand sponsors and the National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM), this nitiative forms part of MST Golf's broader commitment to giving back through golf. With the introduction of the Drive Out Cancer longest drive challenge, participants embraced the opportunity to turn their love for the sport into meaningful contribution. As the sun beamed down at the start of play, laughter and friendly competition echoed across the greens. Despite rain showers mid-game, golfers remained focused as they navigated the beautiful Allamanda course. For every 10m driven at the dedicated tee box, MST Golf pledged RM5 to NCSM, resulting in RM10,376 raised in Johor. Combined with the RM14,632 raised during the Central Community Golf Day at Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club, the initiative has now contributed a total of RM25,008. Fuelling the excitement on the fairways, golfers were treated to engaging brand experiences from TaylorMade and Le Coq Sportif, alongside complimentary coffee by ZUS Coffee and food from MST Golf Arena at the halfway huts. In line with the Group's sustainability efforts, Cuckoo provided water dispenser stations and reusable water bottles, while golfers were encouraged to return their reusable cutlery after meals to reduce single-use waste. Wong Kuee Hui, playing off a handicap of 10, secured the Top Men's title with 38 points OCB, while Leow Mee Yok, with a handicap of 12, earned the Top Ladies' honour with 36 points OCB. A total of five male and three female winners were awarded, along with 20 lucky draw winners who went home with exciting prizes. The Southern Community Golf Day was made possible thanks to Cobra PUMA Golf, Garmin, Le Coq Sportif, TaylorMade, Zhen Jiu, Cuckoo, Hydro Flask, MST Golf Arena, Zhen Jiu Malaysia, Palm Resort GCC and NCSM. Up next, MST Golf Northern Community Golf Day 2025 is set for Penang Golf Resort on 12 July for its final series. Golfers up north are invited to gear up for a day of celebration, community, and purpose. To learn more, visit or sign up now at
