Over 300 gather in Penang for breast cancer summit

TalkHealthAsia.com, a leading health literacy platform, successfully hosted the first Malaysian Breast Cancer Summit (MBCS) at the St Giles Wembley Penang on the 10th and 11th of August. The summit brought together over 300 breast cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers from across Malaysia, providing them with vital knowledge, support, and tools to navigate their journey with breast cancer.

Empowering patients with knowledge

The summit was designed to empower breast cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers with the latest medical insights and practical lifestyle tools to enhance their quality of life. TalkHealthAsia’s mission through MBCS was clear: to equip attendees with the knowledge they need to manage their condition effectively and live fulfilling lives despite the challenges posed by breast cancer.

The two-day event featured a dynamic program of interactive workshops centered around the theme “Living the Journey.” Renowned breast specialists, including Dr. Kiley Loh Wei-Jen, Dr. Doris Chow Sze Ying, and Professor Emeritus Dato’ Dr. Yip Cheng-Har, led sessions covering critical topics such as recent treatment developments, recurrence surveillance, and nutritional guidance. Additionally, the summit tackled often-overlooked subjects such as mental and sexual well-being, with allied health professionals providing practical insights.

Interactive activities and advocacy aupport

Beyond the educational sessions, the summit offered a range of interactive activities, including Zumba classes, a lucky draw, and a social media contest with attractive prizes. Educational booths provided attendees with additional learning opportunities, allowing them to engage with healthcare professionals and gather valuable information on managing their health.

The event also saw active participation from patient advocacy groups such as the Breast Cancer Welfare Association (BCWA), Pink Penang, Pink Unity, and Majlis Kanser Nasional (MAKNA). These groups shared inspiring stories of survival and advocacy, highlighting the importance of community support in the breast cancer journey.

Inspiring speeches and future vision

The summit was officially opened by YABhg. Madam Tan Lean Kee, the wife of the Right Honourable Chief Minister of Penang. In her address, she expressed pride in Penang hosting the inaugural event and praised the courage of the attendees. “You are all true warriors. With the insights you learn this weekend, we must share them with others not here so that together we can make a difference and improve breast health in our country,” she said.

Lim Po Lin, Founding CEO of TalkHealthAsia.com and Steering Chair of MBCS, emphasized the importance of making complex health information accessible to patients. “I hope the Malaysian Breast Cancer Summit 2024 will bring about understanding on breast cancer that is life-changing for those attending, with a positive rippling effect on the lives of families, friends, and community,” she shared.

Breast Surgeon Professor Emeritus Dato’ Dr. Yip Cheng-Har, in her keynote speech, underscored the significance of providing reliable information to those affected by breast cancer. “Nowadays, women with breast cancer go online to get answers for their questions, and more often than not, they are given misleading information from dubious websites. The summit provides them with reliable, evidence-based, up-to-date information about treatment and what they can do to reduce the risk of recurrence and live well after breast cancer,” she said.

The Malaysian Breast Cancer Summit marks a significant milestone in the fight against breast cancer in Malaysia. By bringing together experts, patients, and advocates, the summit has laid the groundwork for a more informed and supportive breast health community in the country. With the success of this inaugural event, there is hope that future summits will continue to empower patients and survivors, ultimately improving breast cancer care and outcomes across Malaysia.