KUALA LUMPUR: KPJ Healthcare Berhad (KPJ Healthcare) in collaboration with Decathlon Malaysia and Pa&Ma (rpt: Pa&Ma), a magazine for young parents, is raising awareness on its efforts to combat prostate cancer and promote overall men’s health in conjunction with the Father’s Day celebration this year.
Officer in charge of KPJ Healthcare Norhaizam Mohamad in a statement today said the partnering with Decathlon and Pa&Ma allows a well-rounded campaign of prostate cancer awareness, importance of physical activity and effective parenting.
“It is the (KPJ) group’s mission to provide top-notch healthcare services and empower individuals to take control of their health and through this campaign, we hope to create a lasting impact by raising awareness, offering screening opportunities and providing support to men in their journey towards better health,” she said.
According to recent statistics from the Health Ministry, prostate cancer ranks as the third most common cancer among Malaysian men while the Malaysian Prostate Cancer Study published in the Journal of Cancer Medicine in 2021 showed almost 70 per cent were diagnosed at stages three or four of the disease.
With the theme ‘Celebrating Superheros’, KPJ Healthcare organised a series of informative sessions, including forums led by medical experts, aimed at enlightening men about the risk factors, symptoms, early detection methods, and treatment options for prostate cancer.
Consultant Urological Surgeon at Damansara Specialist Hospital 2, Dr. S. Surayne said the Father’s Day campaign provides men the opportunity to learn and take proactive steps towards better health as the disease is a serious concern and it is for men to be well-informed on the risks, symptoms and treatment options.
Oncologist at KPJ Damansara Specialist Hospital Dr. Aminudin Rahman Mohd Mydin said timing and preparation are key factors in informing one’s children about a cancer diagnosis.
“It’s important to consider their age, maturity level, and ability to understand complex medical information. Having an open and honest conversation, tailored to their comprehension, can help prepare them for the news,” he added.
He explained that the significance of establishing a strong support system from family members, friends, and healthcare professionals can provide emotional and practical assistance during this challenging time for both the diagnosed individual and their children.
“Remember, every family’s situation is unique, and seeking professional advice can provide valuable insights and guidance on how best to approach discussing a prostate cancer diagnosis with your child,” he added.
Renowned Malaysian astronaut Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor expressed his support by highlighting the importance of early detection and prevention as he has witnessed first-hand the significance of maintaining good health, both physically and mentally.
In addition to the educational sessions, KPJ Healthcare is offering specialised screening packages designed to detect prostate cancer at its earliest stages during the Father’s Day campaign and are available at all KPJ Hospitals.
Titled ‘The Older the Better’, the screening package includes an ultrasound prostate examination, a comprehensive blood screening profile, electrocardiogram and chest X-ray, prostate-specific and carcinoembryonic antigen test with personalised consultations by wellness doctors. – BERNAMA
