The World Cancer Day was celebrated at Paradigm Mall, Johor Bahru with booths from hospitals and cancer support groups sharing about cancer awareness. The event was officiated by Dr Sahruddin bin Jamal, Johor Exco for Health, Environment and Agriculture.
This year’s Johor theme was “I Am and I Will #FightLikeJalil”, emphasising an individual’s responsibility and commitment to prevent cancer and the steps to take to reduce the impact of cancer emotionally and mentally.
According to the Ministry of Health Malaysia’s World Cancer Day 2019 Factsheet, the most common cancer amongst Malaysians is Breast (17.1%), Colorectal (13.2%), and Lung (10.2%).
Cancer care involves not only the physical health of the cancer patient but also his caregiver’s mental and emotional health. It is vital for everyone to create a holistic healthy environment that motivates healthy habits and support for each other.
At the press conference, Dr Sahruddin said he encourages Malaysians to be more mindful of the information received from others regarding health. Misconceptions often cause fear preventing one from seeking treatment or going for a check-up. Vaccinations also help to protect against cancers that are caused by infections such as liver and cervical. For the past five years, officials have been engaging with the anti-vaccination groups to educate them on vaccination.
To date, Tunku Laksamana Johor Cancer Foundation has contributed RM5.77 million worth of help to over one thousand cancer patients in Johor. The Johor state government has two initiatives to help the B40 groups: Skim Peduli Kesihatan and Skim Perlindungan Nasional mySalam, making healthcare more widely available to all.
