Breast cancer affects many in our country. That’s why education, awareness and support is so important. Remember: being diagnosed with breast cancer is not the end – with early detection and treatment, there is a better chance of survival.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in Malaysia. According to consultant clinical oncologist, Dato' Dr Mohamed Ibrahim A. Wahid, Malaysia sees approximately 4,000 new cases per year. This translates to one in 19 people developing breast cancer in their lifetime. Knowing the statistics, we can clearly see the need for not just medical intervention, but also social support. The Pink Ribbon Wellness (L) Foundation, of which Dato’ Dr Ibrahim is a council member, is here to connect, support and inspire those battling the disease. Breast cancer sufferers are not alone, and they are urged to be empowered with knowledge and education, to take charge of the disease and obtain treatment as soon as possible.
BREAST CANCER IN MALAYSIA
WHAT CAUSES BREAST CANCER?
Nobody knows the exact cause, but there are factors that may increase the risk of developing breast cancer. For example, early menarche (first occurrence of menstruation), late menopause, not having children, having children at a later age, not breastfeeding, having a fatty diet, obesity and genetic causes (such as presence of BRCA genes). That said, there are more sporadic cases than there are inherited ones.
I think the westernization of our lifestyle has caused a lot of these cases. Having a diet high in fat, along with preservatives and additives, may be the culprits. But we can’t pinpoint a single cause. Just like we know that smoking increases the risk of lung cancer, but not all who smoke develop lung cancer.
CAN YOU GIVE US A BREAKDOWN OF THE PREVALENCE OF BREAST CANCER AMONG THE DIFFERENT RACES?
This story is from the June 2018 edition of Health Today Malaysia.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the June 2018 edition of Health Today Malaysia.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
When Depression Strikes Teenagers
It can be difficult to imagine that those in the carefree days of youth can be hit by such a somber illness. However, the numbers don’t lie: a significant number of young people suffer from depression and this figure is on the rise. Our contributing psychiatrist reveals the facts about teenage depression and how to spot the signs.
5 Things You Should Know About Probiotics
If you haven’t heard of probiotics or have been wondering what they are, here are some basics on the topic to get you started.
Internet Safety For Children
There’s nothing more comforting than to have your chicks safely back in the roost as they unwind on their gadgets in the solace of their rooms. But are they truly alone in their rooms and are they truly safe? Online gadgets are windows to another world, and no one is looking out for your child there. So how do we shield them from the unwarranted possibilities that lie in that realm?
A Cuppa Joe, Anyone?
Coffee, one of the most widely consumed drinks in the world, is derived from the beans of Coffea canephora (best known as robusta) and C. arabica. Coffee is unique in terms of its perceived and actual effects on the body and is also loved for its distinct aroma and taste. Our general perception about coffee is that it can keep us awake. However, its benefits go beyond the “wake-me-up” action and it can be categorized as a health drink.
Emilia Clarke - Conquers Real-life Adversities
Her on-screen character, Daenerys Targaryen from Game of Thrones was meant to be a blend of Napoleon, Joan of Arc and Lawrence of Arabia—courageous heroes of the past. But when illness struck actress Emilia Clarke, she had to channel some of that strength and bravery into her real-life situation.
The Fertility Revolution
A pioneer in Malaysia's fertility treatment offers his insight on two revolutionaryadvances that made a big difference in bringing hope to many couples who are unable to conceive naturally.
6 Skin Myths Debunked
A pimple has erupted on your nose (oh, horrors). Family members and friends are quick to give you well-meaning advice, while the internet abounds with ‘effective’ tips and solutions. But how do you know if any of that information is true?
Addiction: What You Don't Know
Addictive behaviours have been described as one of the greatest scourages of humankind. In order to treat it, we have to first understand what courses it.
Hello, Hunky Hemsworth!
With the third Thor movie, Thor: Ragnarok set to open in just a few weeks, we turn our attention to the big, blond, easy-on-the eyes star – Chris Hemsworth.
Battling Two Cancers
Being diagnosed with liver cancer was bad enough, but as he was fighting for recovery, Mohd Salleh Yusof was struck by lung cancer as well. Determined to enjoy life to the fullest, Salleh shares his experience with HealthToday.
