Turn Awareness Into Action For Breast Cancer Among Malaysian Women

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EACH October, the country is awash in pink ribbons and campaigns to raise awareness about breast cancer. But awareness has not translated into timely action for many women in Malaysia.
According to the Global Cancer Observatory 2022 report findings, breast cancer remains the most common cancer among Malaysian women, accounting for 31.3% of all female cancer diagnoses in 2022 but also topping the list of cancer deaths among Malaysian women.
Despite widespread public health efforts, the timing of diagnosis continues to pose a serious challenge.
The cost of delaying diagnosis and screening
Dr Aqilah Othman sees the consequences of delaying diagnosis and screening firsthand.
“Younger women are coming in more often, but many are still showing up late. Some hope the lump will go away,” explained the consultant clinical oncologist at Sunway Medical Centre.
“Others delay out of fear or because they think cancer is a death sentence. By the time they seek help, the cancer has been there for a long time.”
A common misconception she highlights is the belief that screening is only necessary when symptoms appear.
“That undermines the entire purpose of screening. Screening is meant to catch cancer when you still feel fine. If you already have symptoms, you’re no longer screening – you’re investigating,” added Dr Aqilah.
Early detection saves lives
This distinction matters because survival improves dramatically with early detection. Early detection of breast cancers in the asymptomatic phase translates to much higher cure and overall survival rates.
The prognosis is far better when the disease is caught early.
“Catch it early, and treatment might only be surgery. If delayed, treatment will involve chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and hormonal therapy,” noted Dr Aqilah.
“It’s more difficult, costly, and emotionally taxing because once cancer reaches lymph nodes or other distant organs, it needs aggressive, multi-model treatment. At that point, it becomes harder to treat and may spread elsewhere.”
She also noted that the Malaysian Clinical Practice Guidelines recommend mammograms every two years for women aged 50 to 74 at average risk.

“However, for the high-risk population, those with a strong family history or genetic risk, you may need to start screening earlier and at more regular intervals,” she added.
Dr Aqilah also advocates ultrasound for some younger women under 40, as dense breast tissue makes mammograms less effective. “Ultrasound is quick, painless and very effective for younger women,” she said.
Barriers still hold women back
Yet screening uptake remains low due to time, cost, stigma and misinformation. “Some women can’t afford to miss a day for a checkup or screening. If they feel healthy, they see no reason to go,” she said.
To help reduce this barrier, Dr Aqilah noted that there are government initiatives that offer women fully subsidised mammograms and NGOs that also offer the same services.
“Private hospitals also offer walk-in same-day screenings. No referral is needed. Just ask for a breast screening and you’ll be guided from there,” she continued, adding that making screening more accessible not only encourages timely diagnosis but also contributes to patient satisfaction by easing what can often be an anxious process.
Debunking the myths
Addressing persistent myths, Dr Aqilah pointed out that mammograms do not cause cancer as the radiation dose is relatively low.
“Biopsies do not cause cancer to spread too. They’re essential to confirm a diagnosis and how best to manage it. Pain is another deterrent. It’s not as bad as people imagine. Most describe it as a few seconds of discomfort, like having an injection for vaccination,” she clarified.
She also dispels another myth that cancer patients cannot live a full life while in treatment, further explaining that most regimens are manageable now, and with proper support, people can work, travel and live their lives.
Dr Aqilah also sharedd that lifestyle factors can also play a significant role in increasing your risk of breast cancer.
“Obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption, and diets rich in processed food contribute to cancers. Maintaining an active lifestyle and adhering to a nutritious diet can assist in reducing the risk.”
What can you do this Pinktober?
Dr Aqilah urges women between 50 and 74 who haven’t had a mammogram in two years to get one. For women in their 40s, she advised discussing with a doctor, as they may warrant starting screening at an earlier age.
She stressed the importance of paying attention to warning signs such as lump, skin changes, nipple discharge, or breast pain.
“If symptoms last for more than four weeks, seek medical advice. Don’t delay. Don’t assume you’re too young. Let someone guide you through it. You’ll feel more in control once you understand your options,” added Dr Aqilah. ‒  Focus Malaysia

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