PETALING JAYA: Despite human papillomavirus (HPV) being widespread in Malaysia, many women remain unaware of the serious health risks it poses.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection, with nearly all sexually active individuals contracting it at some point, often without symptoms.
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High-risk HPV can lead to various cancers, including cervical, anal, oropharyngeal, penile, vaginal and vulvar cancers.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad recently revealed that over 10,500 women in Malaysia tested positive for HPV through cervical cancer screenings over the past five years, and 65% of women have not undergone any screenings in the past three years.
Nurse Venmathi Pradeep Kumar, 24, from Ampang, said women often put others’ health before their own.
“I think this is where perhaps the workplace can fund or organise health screenings for female employees.
“There can also be more culturally sensitive and inclusive health promotions or educational programmes, either at workplaces or schools,” she said.
Librarian Erin Carina Jauti, 24, from Kuala Lumpur, said many women deprioritise health check-ups, including HPV screening.
“It’s not because they don’t care, they may not have the means either financially or physically.
“Like if you have to choose between seeing a doctor or paying rent or other commitments, which one would you choose?
“There are also rural women, who may find topics like period or cervical examination shameful,” she said.
She called for more open conversations on HPV to break the stigma.
She also suggested outsourcing screenings to general clinics at subsidised rates for wider access.
Assistant manager Ang Xiwen, 32, from Kuala Lumpur, noted that the lack of urgency stems from poor awareness.
“I think the awareness itself among women is not strong enough, and that’s why I don’t feel the need to pay for screening.
“But I would appreciate it if the company provides free screenings for their female employees,” she said.
Bank employee Alia A., 27, from Kuala Lumpur, admitted she was unaware of HPV-related risks.
She urged the Health Ministry to intensify awareness efforts and make screenings part of employee medical benefits.
“I will gladly go to any GP to get a mandatory screening,” she said.
