UMMC cancer epidemiologist Prof Dr Nirmala Bhoo Pathy says cancer patients often end up in tears having to “prove so hard they are ill” to get benefits from their insurance, which costs them delays in accessing vital treatment.
Dr Kelvin Yii, the Health Minister’s advisor, highlights the gravity of NCDs and mental health; the Health White Paper will focus on preventive health and mental health to overcome the "ticking time bomb" of NCDs and the "silent pandemic" of mental health.
Throughout her 20-year cancer battle, Sew Boon Lui faced additional health challenges, including acute glaucoma and an accident that required metal implant surgery. “It’s not like, ‘Oh, you have cancer, so you are insulated from other things’”.
Early detection of colorectal cancer greatly improves the chances of cure as treatment options depend on cancer stage, tumour location, and patient health.
Bandar Kuching MP Kelvin Yii urges the government to increase accessibility and affordability of cancer treatment, including subsidies, and cancer facilities and financial assistance to cover long travel to the hospital in rural areas like Sarawak.
Sarawak state government proposes bearing the RM800m cost of construction for a cancer hospital, while the federal government provides specialists and equipment. The health minister indicates a Sarawak cancer hospital will not be allocated in Budget 2023.