Sarawak Aims To Lead Malaysia In Eliminating Cervical Cancer

KUCHING, Aug 3 (Bernama) -- The inaugural partnership between the Life Insurance Association of Malaysia (LIAM) and the ROSE Foundation, to boost the HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) screening initiative in Sarawak, marks a significant step to eliminate cervical cancer in the state. 

LIAM management committee member Datuk Koh Yaw Hui said that cervical cancer is both highly preventable and treatable, underscoring the importance of immunisation, early detection through PCR screening, and effective management.

“The life insurance industry is committed to recognising cervical cancer as a preventable disease, and that the ethos of life insurance must evolve with advancements in preventive medicine and care, especially in underserved and remote communities.

“Through the HPV screening programme, we aim to raise awareness and educate the community about HPV and HPV-related cancers, emphasising that prevention and early detection can save lives,” he said in his speech at the launching of ‘Leaving No One Behind – HPV Screening Programme’ here, today. 

He hoped that the initiative will provide significant benefits to the community in Sarawak, ensuring that every woman has access to vital HPV screening services.

It is reported that Sarawak has the highest incidence of cervical cancer in Malaysia, with a rate of 12.1 per 100,000 population, surpassing the national rate of 10.2 per 100,000, as estimated by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

The HPV screening programme, officially launched by Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, is designed to target 10,000 women, aged 30 to 65, in remote and underserved communities, with a particular focus on Sabah and Sarawak.

Also present were LIAM chief executive officer Mark O’Dell; ROSE Foundation chairman, Datuk Dr Adeeba Kamarulzaman; ROSE Foundation founder trustee, Dr Woo Yin Ling; and president-elect Malaysian Medical Association (MMA), Datuk Dr Kalwinder Singh Khaira. 

-- BERNAMA