Health insurers are seizing the moment as their best shot at heightening public attention to their message. — Bloomberg
GEORGE TOWN: The statistics are a wake-up call.
According to the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2023, 15% of Malaysian men aged 18 and above have diabetes, 29% have hypertension and 30% suffer from high cholesterol.
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death, accounting for 17.6% (12,648 deaths) of all male fatalities, while colorectal, lung and prostate cancers top the list of male cancer cases.
Men’s sexual health is one of the least discussed issues, with erectile dysfunction affecting up to 83% of those with non-communicable diseases.
To shift the narrative, Penang will host the second Penang Men’s Health Day on Nov 15 at Design Village in Batu Kawan, Penang.
State health committee chairman Daniel Gooi said the event aims to build on the strong response to last year’s inaugural edition, reflecting a rising awareness of the importance of open dialogue and attention on men’s health.
He said the one-day event will feature targeted health screenings and fast-track referrals, bringing healthcare directly into the community.
The initiative is aligned with Malaysia’s National Men’s Health Action Plan and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3 on good health and well-being, emphasising preventive, accessible and male-friendly healthcare.
“The programme is designed to empower men to take charge of their health, before illness takes hold of them.
“Medical teams from Penang Hospital and Seberang Jaya Hospital, alongside volunteers, will offer free health screenings and consultations during the event,” he said.
He said about 200 men are expected to participate.
“The long-term goal is to normalise regular check-ups, promote open discussions and build a culture where men live healthier, longer and more fulfilling lives,” he told reporters yesterday.
Gooi said the programme is jointly organised by the Penang Health Department, Boston Scientific Medical Device and Design Village.
Also present at the press conference were state health director Datuk Dr Fazilah Shaikh Alaudin and Boston Scientific Medical Device vice-president Fearghal Hennessy (operations and executive sponsor for ESG).
Those who want to take part can register at https://tinyurl.com/236tfz69 or at https://forms.gle/bT7ViFM1ct9WbNAw6.
