PUTRAJAYA: The Health Ministry is targeting at least 20,000 women to undergo breast cancer screening during the October to December period this year.
In a statement on Saturday (Oct 25), the ministry said this target was in line with its commitment to expanding the screening networks and coverage, and to increase early detection to enable early and effective treatment.
"Although Pink October has come to an end, the Health Ministry will continue activities under the Post-Pink October initiative to ensure that the awareness message and breast cancer screening activities are carried out throughout the year.
"It is MOH's commitment to strengthen screening access, improve treatment, and ensure that every woman in Malaysia has the opportunity to be detected and treated earlier," according to the statement.
The statement was issued in conjunction with the Pink Ribbon Run 2025 held today at Dataran Wawasan, Putrajaya, which was attended by Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.
Tengku Permaisuri Selangor Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin graced the event which symbolises solidarity and serves as the official closing event for the Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2025 campaign held nationwide throughout October.
According to the MOH, this year's programme carries the theme United for Women: Spread Awareness, Save Lives which embodies the spirit of unity among all members of society in protecting Malaysian women from the threat of breast cancer.
Dzulkefly, in the same statement, emphasised that breast cancer remains the leading type of cancer in Malaysia, with 50.5 per cent of cases still detected at stages three and four.
"This proves there is a need and importance for efforts to provide advocacy and awareness as well as early screening regarding this disease," he also said.
The Pink Ribbon Run 2025 brought together 900 participants from diverse backgrounds as a symbol of solidarity in the fight against breast cancer.
The programme also features health promotions, Xtra Women's Chat sessions and free breast cancer screenings, especially for the B40 group. - Bernama
