Malaysia allocates RM9 million to subsidise mammograms for 38,000 women next year

Malaysia's National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN) has earmarked RM9 million for a mammogram subsidy programme that will benefit close to 38,000 women nationwide next year, according to Minister Nancy Shukri. The allocation is intended to encourage earlier breast-cancer detection, with an estimated 9,000 of the beneficiaries residing in Sarawak. Since its inception in 2007, the programme has provided screening to 598,919 women across the country.

In Sarawak alone, 90,075 women have undergone mammograms, and 88 cases of cancer have been identified. Screening facilities are available in hospitals in Kuching, Sibu and Miri. Officials stress that women should begin regular checks before age 40, especially those at higher risk.