Hospital Fatimah Bringing Global Radiotherapy Awareness to Ipoh

By Yashila Issabelle

The Radiotherapy Unit of Hospital Fatimah celebrated the first-ever World Radiotherapy Awareness Day.

This global initiative, launched by the Global Coalition for Radiotherapy in collaboration with international and national organisations, aims to raise awareness and improve access to radiotherapy worldwide.

The day will be observed annually on 7 September, chosen to mark the date in 1953 when the first patient in the world was treated with a linear accelerator at Hammersmith Hospital in London.

At Hospital Fatimah, the event was officiated by Dr. Chan Wee Han, Clinical Head of Oncology and Consultant Oncologist & Radiotherapist, together with Dr. Liaw Kok Toon, Medical Director of Hospital Fatimah.

Both marked the occasion by signing the “Voice of Hope” book, a symbolic gesture honouring the journeys of cancer survivors and caregivers.

The Radiotherapy Unit team organised a series of activities for the day, including:

• Voice of Hope book signing, featuring stories from survivors and caregivers.
• Educational exhibitions, offering insights into types, techniques, and addressing myths versus facts.
• Guided tours of the Radiotherapy Department, highlighting advanced technology, safety protocols, and patient-centred care.
• Games and activities, with fun prizes and opportunities for visitors of all ages to engage and learn.

When asked by Ipoh Echo on the equipment they use and whether the practitioners operating them were certified, Ms Faiiza Teoh, Radiation Therapist Executive from the Radiotherapy Unit stated the following.

“Our Linear Accelerator is a 2013 Elekta Synergy model, which underwent a hardware and software upgrade to the Synergy Agility system in 2024. This upgrade has enhanced the delivery of advanced techniques such as Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT) and Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT).

“Yes, all our therapists hold degrees from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) and possess valid Annual Practising Certificates (APC) registered under the Malaysian Allied Health Professions Council (MAHPC).

Hospital Fatimah extended their thanks to all who participated and supported the event.

They hoped that the awareness raised will inspire conversations, foster understanding, and encourage continued support for equitable access to radiotherapy, both globally and in Ipoh.

For more information, contact the Community Development Office at 05-238 1313.