Hospital Picaso launches ‘Think Pink’ campaign

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, also known as Pink October, Hospital Picaso has launched a month-long campaign titled “Think Pink.” This community-driven initiative seeks to educate the public on the importance of early detection and routine screening, while fostering awareness of breast cancer prevention. Themed “Think Pink,” the campaign encourages Malaysians to engage in awareness activities and events, be it through education, donation, or participation.

Empowering the community

The campaign, led by Encik Ahmad Lutfi, General Manager of Hospital Picaso, is centered on community involvement and awareness. “Our aim with ‘Think Pink’ is to provide more opportunities for people to learn about breast cancer while promoting general well-being and the spirit of support within the community,” Lutfi said. The campaign also highlights that breast cancer represents approximately 17.6% of all cancer diagnoses in Malaysia, based on a recent Malaysia National Cancer Registry Report (2017-2021), underscoring the urgent need for awareness and early diagnosis, particularly in women aged 40 and above.

Hospital Picaso’s breast surgeons, including Dr Normayah Kitan, Dr Ng Char Hong, and Professor Emeritus Dato’ Dr Yip Cheng Har, emphasize the importance of early detection and self-awareness. During a recent private launch of the Breast and Women’s Health Centre, these doctors pointed out that survival rates are substantially improved when breast cancer is diagnosed in its early stages. They strongly advocate for regular self-exams and annual screenings to reduce the disease’s impact on Malaysian families.

As part of the campaign, Hospital Picaso organized the “Whisk for Wellness” event, a fundraiser in collaboration with the Breast Cancer Welfare Association (BCWA), featuring a health talk and a hands-on baking session. This fundraiser aimed to raise both awareness and financial support for breast cancer patients, with all proceeds benefiting BCWA.

Additionally, a workshop focusing on breast cancer brought together over 80 participants, including healthcare professionals and trainees. The session, led by Hospital Picaso’s doctors, provided attendees with updates on the latest advancements in breast cancer diagnosis and staging from a multidisciplinary viewpoint, enhancing the professional community’s understanding of the disease.

Upcoming events

The campaign will culminate in a one-day community event on October 27, designed to promote an active, healthy lifestyle and provide practical resources for managing breast cancer. Activities will include a breast cancer talk, health screenings, breast examinations by Can-care, as well as a therapeutic yoga session and matcha latte-making workshop. For a RM20 admission fee, attendees will receive a goodie bag with a yoga mat and a pink towel as tokens of appreciation.

“We are committed to combating breast cancer as one of the most debilitating diseases in
the country. Our mission revolves largely around building women’s health which enhances
their physical, mental and emotional aspects – at every stage of their journey,” Lutfi affirmed.

For further details on the yoga session, individuals can register via https://bit.ly/picasothinkpink, or contact Siti Maryam at 013-928 1996 and Charmian Kok at 016-815 3309. Additional information on Hospital Picaso’s initiatives can be found at www.hospitalpicaso.com.