PULAU TIKUS: An initiative aimed at promoting cancer awareness and early detection called "Screening for Hope: Unveiling a Cancer-Free Future" has been launched in Pulau Tikus, Buletin Mutiara reported.
This programme is a collaborative effort by the Bukit Bendera Parliament Office, the Health Ministry, and the National Cancer Society Malaysia in Penang, aiming to address the growing concern over cancer rates which are projected to double by the year 2050.
State Health, Youth and Sports Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen highlighted the significance of early screenings in reducing cancer risks and hopes the initiative will encourage the community to participate.
The programme, which will run for three months, is part of a broader effort to promote health and wellness in the community.
The state government is also offering free health screenings through the PeKa B40 Health Care Scheme for the B40 demographic, providing them with necessary treatment assistance.
This move is intended to ensure that no segment is left vulnerable to the threats posed by cancer.
Bukti Bendera member of Parliament Syerleena Abdul Rashid announced that the screening tour will visit several locations within the Bukit Bendera parliamentary areas between February to April.
The schedule includes Gurney Plaza on Feb 17, Dewan Majlis Pengurusan Komuniti Kampung (MPKK) Bukit Bendera on March 9, MBPP Padang Tembak Hall on April 20, and MBPP Tanjung Bungah Hall on April 24.
This comprehensive programme offers free health screenings, one-on-one medical consultations, health-related talks by specialists, and papilloma vaccinations for financially challenged children.
The initiative was officially inaugurated at a ceremony, marking an important step in fostering a well-informed community about cancer prevention and the benefits of early detection.
The organisers urge the public to take advantage of this opportunity to contribute to a future where the threat of cancer is significantly diminished.