The Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) together with Subang Jaya Medical Centre (SJMC), have organised a thought-provoking panel discussion titled “My family has a history of breast cancer, should I be worried? What screening should I do?”, at its headquarters in Kuala Lumpur.
The event aimed to create more awareness on the importance of early detection and provide valuable insights into breast cancer prevention and screening methods, in conjunction with breast cancer awareness month.
In a statement, MHTC Acting Chief Executive Officer, Farizal B. Jaafar said this event is a testament to MHTC’s commitment in the battle against breast cancer.
“We hope that with such platforms, we can revive the idea of being more aware and more “alert” around breast cancer, a disease that for the most part is detectable in early stages, with better outcomes for those who are diagnosed with it,” he said.
The panel was joined by a Consultant Breast Surgeon (Oncoplastic), Dr Teh Mei Sze and a Certified Genetic Counsellor, Yoon Sook Yee, both shared their expertise and knowledge on breast cancer prevention, genetic factors, and the latest advancements in screening techniques.
The panel discussion is aligned with this year’s breast cancer awareness month theme, Thrive365, which emphasises the importance of a holistic approach to breast cancer prevention and encourages individuals to prioritise their overall well-being throughout the year.
According to recent statistics, breast cancer cases in Malaysia have been on the rise, with approximately 5,000 new cases reported each year. Early detection plays a vital role in improving survival rates, and regular screenings are recommended for individuals above the age of 40.
MHTC remains dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer and saving lives, and through initiatives like discussions, it aims to empower individuals with knowledge and encourage proactive steps towards breast cancer prevention and early detection. – Bernama