KUCHING: Women are urged to come forward for early screening as a proactive step in protecting themselves against the risk of cervical cancer, which is treatable if detected early.

Minister of Women, Family and Community Development Dato’ Sri Nancy Shukri explained that there are still women who feel afraid or embarrassed to undergo examinations, even though early screening can save lives.

“I know many are worried and afraid. But the reality is cervical cancer is treatable if we detect it early. Do not be afraid. Do not wait,” she said.

She said this while speaking at the Wcare Outreach Programme: Ethnic Community Empowerment held at the Surau Darul Salihin compound in Kampung Pasir Panjang here on Saturday.

The Santubong Member of Parliament added that the government, through the National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN), provides free HPV DNA screening facilities for women aged between 30 and 65.

According to her, a self-screening approach has also been introduced to make it easier for women to undergo testing more comfortably and without feeling self-conscious.

In this regard, Dato Sri Nancy stated that the community-based approach through the appointment of Ethnic Ambassadors helps boost women's confidence to come forward for screening, as the information is conveyed by individuals they know.

She added that efforts to expand outreach programmes to various areas will continue to be intensified to ensure that no woman is left behind in gaining access to health screenings.

Explaining further, she revealed that from 2019 until 31 March 2026, a total of 55,266 women in Sarawak have come forward to undergo HPV DNA screenings through LPPKN.

Of that total, she noted, 4,710 cases tested positive for HPV, with 92 pre-cancerous cases and 10 cervical cancer cases detected, thereby allowing for early treatment to be administered.-UKASnews

Prepared by: Nur Nabilla
Translator: Sarah Nicole Hii
Photo by: Mohd Naseem & Nur Nabilla