Jannie Lasimbang…The number of cancer cases and deaths in the region is expected to increase by 85 percent by 2050, signaling an urgent need for effective cancer prevention and treatment strategies.
PENAMPANG – Every year, February 4 marks World Cancer Day, a global event dedicated to raising awareness and encouraging collective action in the fight against cancer.
This year is particularly significant, as it marks 25 years since the signing of the Paris Charter Against Cancer, a milestone in the worldwide effort to combat the disease.
The theme for 2025, “United by Unique” emphasizes the need to recognize the unique experience of each cancer patient and the importance of delivering people-centred care, as well as the provision of health, family and community care.
In 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported that the Southeast Asia Region will see 2.4 million new cancer cases and 1.5 million cancer-related deaths, including 56,000 among children.
The number of cancer cases and deaths in the region is expected to increase by 85 percent by 2050, signaling an urgent need for effective cancer prevention and treatment strategies.
Jannie Lasimbang, ADUN Kapayan recalled “in 2021 when the country was still during Covid 19, she was diagnosed with breast cancer and began treatment process involving chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery.
” I am lucky to have had strong mental and physical support from family members and friends during my treatment process.”
“Mental support and consistent treatment is critical for cancer patients, therefore prevention and early treatment is very important to help in reducing the number of cases and deaths”, Jannie said in a statement today.
Cancer prevention programs are not fully implemented, resulting in millions of avoidable cases. Late diagnosis often leads to less effective and more expensive treatment.
As the fight against cancer continues, the efforts of all parties are urgently needed.
The government, healthcare providers and communities must work together, to address the rising incidence of cancer and ensure that everyone, regardless of their background or location, has access to the care and treatment they need.
Jannie at the HPV PCR free free screening for breast cancer and HPV PCR tests for cervical cancer in Penampang last year
“Let’s together and be one to stop this cancer. Last year, I conducted several programs with NGOs, Wanita DAP and the community to ensure awareness and early prevention, in particular on breast and cervical cancer, not only in Penampang but throughout Sabah. We provided free screening for breast cancer and HPV PCR tests for cervical cancer.” Jannie added.
