DALAT: Efforts to promote early detection of breast and cervical cancer must continue to be intensified to encourage more women to undergo regular health screenings and improve their chances of receiving effective treatment.
Minister for Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah said access to quality healthcare services should also be continuously expanded to ensure that women across all communities, including those in rural areas, are able to benefit from early detection and preventive healthcare initiatives.
“The encouraging response received during the Breast Cancer and HPV DNA Screening Programme reflects growing public awareness of the importance of healthcare and disease prevention,” she said.
She said this when officiating at the closing ceremony of the Breast Cancer and HPV DNA Screening Programme at the Kampung Sungai Kut Muara Futsal Court here on Monday (June 1) as reported by Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS).
Fatimah pointed out that breast cancer remains among the most common cancers affecting women in Malaysia, but many patients still seek treatment only after the disease has reached an advanced stage.
She saud outreach initiatives carried out by the Sarawak Breast Cancer Support Group (SBCSG) play a vital role in ensuring women, particularly those in rural areas, have better access to health information, clinical breast examinations and early screening services.
“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 said.
Touching on cervical cancer, Fatimah said the disease continues to pose a serious threat to women, with Sarawak recording one of the highest incidences of cervical cancer in the country.
She said HPV DNA screening is an important tool for early detection, while also helping women better understand their health risks and take appropriate preventive measures.
“I urge women not to neglect their health and to make regular medical check-ups part of their routine for the wellbeing of themselves and their families,” she said.
At the event, Fatimah expressed appreciation to healthcare personnel from the Dalat Maternal and Child Health Clinic and the Mukah Divisional Health Office for their commitment and cooperation in ensuring the success of the programme.
She also stressed that close collaboration between non-governmental organisations, health agencies and the state government should continue to be strengthened to expand awareness campaigns and early disease detection programmes among the public.
