One in 23 Malaysian women now at risk of breast cancer

KUCHING: The risk of Malaysian women developing breast cancer has increased to one in 23, up from one in 27 previously, according to Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri. The rise is based on data from the Malaysian National Cancer Registry Report for 2012-2016 and 2017-2021, which shows breast cancer remains the most prevalent cancer among women in the country.

However, the situation is concerning as the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2023 reveals that 71% of women aged 40 and above have never had a mammogram, while 46% do not practice breast self-examination. This low screening rate makes early detection more challenging, despite the fact that patients diagnosed at an early stage have a survival rate of 95%. During the Sarawak state-level Breast Cancer Awareness Month event, Nancy emphasized the importance of early detection to increase survival rates.

To improve access to early breast cancer screening, the government, through the National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN), introduced the Mammogram Examination Subsidy Programme in 2007. The programme was later expanded and rebranded as WeCaRe, which focuses on raising awareness about breast and cervical cancer among women. As of September 30, the programme has benefited 598,919 women in Malaysia, including 90,075 women in Sarawak, of which 88 tested positive for cancer.