KUCHING: The Breast Cancer Awareness Day programme encouraged early detection and prevention.
In a commendable collaborative effort, Kuching Democratic Action Party (DAP) initiated a programme in partnership with the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development to provide free breast cancer screening services.
DAP Sarawak chairman Chong Chieng Jen said participants in the programme have the privilege of choosing between two renowned healthcare institutions, namely Borneo Medical Centre (BMC) and Normah Medical Specialist Centre, for their screenings.
Upon registration, he said the participants undergo mammogram tests, and all associated costs are fully covered by the government.
“I firmly believe in the age-old adage that prevention is always better than cure.
“Early detection can save lives, prevent the progression of breast cancer to advanced stages, and ensure more successful treatment outcomes,” he said when met during the programme at Farley Shopping Mall here on today (Oct 21).
Chong, who serves as Stampin MP as well as Padungan assemblyman, said this initiative is part of a series of similar events, with a recent one held at Batu Kawa.
He expressed his intention to continue conducting these programmes to raise awareness about the importance of early detection of breast cancer.
Notably, the success of this awareness programme was further bolstered by the participation of key sponsors and collaborators.
Optimax Eye Specialist, Anlene, National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN), AIA insurance company, KinCentre Pharmacy, and Farley, who served as the venue sponsor, all played integral roles in ensuring the programme’s reach and impact.
AIA, in particular, offered free medical insurance coverage for three months to participants.
Additionally, various free screenings and tests were made available, including free eye screening, free glaucoma screening, general health screening, and PAP smear tests, all of which contributed to the comprehensive nature of the programme.
