HOMESOY’s third annual Stop That Dot Together campaign this year is focusing on breast cancer screening, research and public education in Malaysia.
“Breast cancer accounts for more than 30% of cancer diagnoses among women in Malaysia and affects approximately one in 20 women over their lifetime”
The campaign involves the National Cancer Society of Malaysia (NCSM), Cancer Research Malaysia (CRMY) and more than 40 medical centres. According to the organisers, funding will support nationwide screening programmes and research focused on Malaysian women.
“Almost half of breast cancer cases are diagnosed at Stage III or Stage IV. The campaign materials cite a five-year survival rate of about 23% for Stage IV disease, compared with survival rates close to 90% when breast cancer is detected early”
Breast cancer accounts for more than 30% of cancer diagnoses among women in Malaysia and affects approximately one in 20 women over their lifetime, based on data cited from the World Health Organization’s GLOBOCAN 2022 estimates.
The Malaysian National Cancer Registry Report indicates that nearly half of breast cancer cases in Malaysia are diagnosed at Stage III or IV (late stage). The campaign materials cite a five-year survival rate of approximately 23% for Stage IV breast cancer, compared with survival rates close to 90% when the disease is detected early.
The figures contrast with those from our neighbour, Singapore, where approximately 71% to 75% of breast cancer cases are diagnosed at an early stage. Recent data indicates that Stage I cases account for more than 56% of all diagnoses, while about 25% or fewer are diagnosed at Stage III or IV.
The difference highlights the importance of timely screening and diagnosis. However, the Malaysian National Health and Morbidity Survey 2019 found that 75% of women over the age of 40 had never undergone a mammogram, indicating a significant gap in screening participation.
Dr Kiran Kaur d/o Amer Singh, a general surgeon with a special interest in breast surgery at Columbia Asia Hospital Klang, said screening can identify breast changes before symptoms develop.
“Early detection remains our most effective tool against breast cancer. Regular screening allows us to identify changes long before symptoms appear, when treatment is most effective and outcomes are best,” she said.
Dr Kiran said mammography remains the main screening test because it can detect small abnormalities that cannot be felt during a physical examination. She added that ultrasound can be useful, particularly for younger women with dense breast tissue.
“Because the most appropriate screening depends on age, breast density and risk factors, consulting a healthcare professional is essential,” she said.
Speaking to PP Health Malaysia (PPHM), Dr Kiran said “Breast cancer screening for women at average risk is centred on mammography, including 3D mammography where available. Ultrasound is not generally used as a stand-alone screening tool; rather, it helps assess a breast lump, clarify an abnormal mammogram, evaluate selected women with dense breasts, or guide a biopsy. Breast MRI is not routinely needed for average-risk screening, but may be used alongside mammography for women at high risk or individuals require more clinical investigation.”
Screening recommendations may differ according to an individual’s age, breast density, family history and other risk factors. People who notice changes such as a new lump, skin dimpling, changes to the nipple or alterations in breast texture should seek medical advice.
“The Malaysian National Cancer Registry Report indicates that nearly half of breast cancer cases in Malaysia are diagnosed at Stage III or IV”
The campaign event also uses an educational model known as the “Know Your Lemons” kit to demonstrate possible signs of breast cancer beyond a conventional lump. These include skin dimpling, nipple changes and changes in texture. Such symptoms are not necessarily caused by cancer, but should be assessed by a healthcare professional if they are new or persistent.
“Malaysian National Health and Morbidity Survey found that 75% of women over the age of 40 had never undergone a mammogram”
The campaign also addressed claims about soya consumption and breast cancer. Ms Soo Sek Yow, Head of the Nutrition Unit at Ace Canning Corporation Sdn. Bhd., said current evidence does not show that soya causes breast cancer.
“Soya does not cause breast cancer; in fact, current science shows higher consumption of soya food may even offer a protective effect against it,” she said.
Soya contains isoflavones, naturally occurring plant compounds sometimes described as plant oestrogens. These compounds are chemically different from human oestrogen.
Evidence on soya and breast cancer risk is based mainly on population studies and research into whole soya foods; it should not be interpreted as a substitute for screening or medical treatment.
The post Nearly 50% Breast Cancer Cases in Malaysia Diagnosed Only at Late Stage first appeared on PP Health Malaysia.
