The National Cancer Society of Malaysia (NCSM) is sounding the alarm on a major hurdle in the fight against cervical cancer—widespread lack of awareness among women about their risk of HPV infection.
NCSM Managing Director Prof Dr Murallitharan Munisamy highlighted a dangerous misconception: many women believe that being healthy or having only one sexual partner eliminates their risk, leading them to skip HPV vaccinations and screenings. “As long as you’re sexually active, you’re at risk,” he warned.
According to Malaysia’s Ministry of Health, over 10,500 women were diagnosed with HPV through cervical cancer screenings over the past five years, proving the threat is still very real. Dr Murallitharan also expressed concern that while people readily spend on beauty treatments or spa visits, many still hesitate to invest in their health.
In response, NCSM’s “Leaving No One Behind” vaccine campaign has shown promising results. The organization now plans to partner with GPs to offer up to 70% subsidies on screenings, taking a proactive approach instead of waiting for patients to seek help.
Silent Threats Call for Empowerment Through Self-Screening
Dr Raj Abdul Karim from the Malaysian Council for Child Welfare emphasized that cervical cancer, like other “silent killers” such as diabetes and hypertension, can progress without symptoms. She urged women aged 20–50 who are sexually active to get regular Pap smears and consider HPV DNA self-sampling kits. These tools can overcome cultural barriers and extend access to women in rural or underserved areas.
She also urged the government to speed up vaccine rollout, prioritizing high-risk groups to stop the spread of cancer-causing HPV strains.
Systemic Barriers Must Be Addressed
Nazreen Nizam, Executive Director of the Women’s Aid Organisation (WAO), stressed that the blame shouldn’t fall solely on individuals. Systemic issues like poor continuity in vaccine rollout, lack of multilingual and culturally sensitive health education, and limited access still hinder progress.
She called for three key reforms:
- Inclusive health messaging in multiple languages that respects cultural diversity.
- Free or subsidized HPV vaccines and screenings for all women, regardless of nationality or location.
- A streamlined subsidy system across both public and private healthcare sectors.
She also stressed the need for safe, stigma-free healthcare environments that uphold women’s autonomy.
Cervical Cancer Is Preventable—If We Act Together
Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among Malaysian women aged 15 to 44, and nearly all cases are caused by HPV. Experts agree: vaccination and regular screenings are the strongest defense.
Achieving true health equity means a nationwide effort—through education, healthcare access, and inclusive policies. Only then can we ensure no one is left behind in the fight against cervical cancer.
