By Anne Das
Women in Ipoh and across Perak who have been putting off a mammogram are encouraged to enquire about a nationwide programme offering 3,000 free breast cancer screenings.
The initiative, now in its eighth phase, is organised by Etiqa in partnership with the National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM) and targets underprivileged women aged 40 and above, with a household income of RM5,000 and below.
Launched last month, the programme aims to remove financial barriers to breast cancer screening and encourage early detection, particularly among women who may otherwise postpone this important health check.
Screenings will be provided through more than 20 hospital partners nationwide. Women in Perak can contact NCSM to enquire about their eligibility and participating screening centres in the state.
A mammogram is an X-ray examination of the breast that can detect abnormalities before a lump can be felt or other symptoms appear. Early detection can improve treatment options and outcomes.
According to figures cited by Etiqa, an average of 26 women are diagnosed with breast cancer every day in Malaysia.
Despite greater awareness of breast cancer, affordability remains a concern. Mammograms at some private hospitals in the Klang Valley can cost up to RM330, an expense that may be difficult for women already managing household and family commitments.
For some, preventive screening becomes another health check postponed until finances permit.
Dato’ Dr Saunthari Somasundaram, President of NCSM, said removing the cost could make a meaningful difference.
“For a woman managing household expenses and other daily priorities, the cost of a preventive screening can become a reason to delay it. Removing that cost can make the decision to get screened that much easier,” she said.
Since its introduction, the partnership between Etiqa and NCSM has facilitated close to 40,000 free mammograms, expanding access to breast cancer screening for underserved communities across Malaysia.
Phase 8 places particular emphasis on reaching low-income women, including those living in urban communities where proximity to healthcare facilities does not necessarily mean they can afford screening.
The programme also includes collaboration with the Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM) to raise awareness and connect eligible women with screening opportunities through community outreach activities.
For Perak families, this is useful information worth passing along, especially to mothers, sisters, relatives and neighbours.
Free Mammogram Enquiries in Perak
Women interested in the programme can visit NCSM-Caritas, Block B, 157863, Jalan Kompleks Sukan, Simee, 31400 Ipoh, to check their eligibility.
Call/WhatsApp: 011-5921 8729
Email: nadiah@cancer.org.my
Website: www.cancer.org.my
For further updates, visit NCSM’s official website or social media pages.
