PETALING JAYA: In conjunction with World Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia Day, a photo exhibition featuring leukaemia patients was launched here at One World Hotel yesterday.
The exhibition, which showcases the photographic journey of six leukaemia patients, aims to create awareness among the people on chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) and its treatment.
According to Novartis Corporation (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, there are about 1,600 CML patients identified in the country.
Of the total, 90 per cent of the patients are seeking treatment in the public hospitals while another 10 per cent have opted for treatment through the private healthcare providers.
Health Ministry (Medical Development Division) director Datuk Dr Azman Abu Bakar said the ministry forks out RM2.6 million a year for treatment of the disease.
He said on top of that, the ministry has also spent several millions to assist non-governmental organisations, associations and other stakeholders in organising programmes and events related to CML.
He also said the ministry will continue contribute and support the collaboration.
"We are gathered here to give moral support and motivation to the patients and their family.
"The disease brings a lot of challenges to the victims and it is so easy to give up. But yet, we are encouraged and motivated by these individuals who are bravely carrying on," he said.
Azman’s speech was read by his deputy director, Datin Sri Dr Asmah Samat at the event.
The event was organised by Max Family and supported by The Max Foundation and MyPCR.org.
The World Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia Day is slated to be held worldwide on Sept 22.