Thomson Paints October Pink for Healthier Breasts and Happier Lives

In the realm of global health concerns, breast cancer has taken the lead, surpassing lung cancer in the frequency of new diagnoses worldwide in 2020. This unsettling trend is even more pronounced in Asia, where it accounts for a staggering 22.9% of new cancer cases. Unfortunately, the statistics tell a sombre tale – more women in Asia succumb to breast cancer than the rest of the world combined.

But statistics are not just numbers; they represent real individuals, mothers, daughters, and friends. In Malaysia, these numbers hit closer to home, with one in 20 women facing a breast cancer diagnosis, resulting in 23 new cases every day. These numbers are not just alarming; they’re a call to action. This is why Thomson Hospital Kota Damansara (THKD) has dedicated the entire month of Pink October to address this issue head-on.

Throughout the month, THKD will be placing its focus on empowerment through knowledge and the embrace of hope. Their initiatives include a Support Group ‘Look Good, Feel Better’ event for cancer survivors, accessible breast screenings, breast self-exam tutorials, basic health screenings, and valuable product giveaways.

Sharing on Breast Cancer in Young Women, Dr. Tan Gie Hooi, a Consultant Breast & Oncoplastic Surgeon, highlighted the pressing issue of breast cancer among young women. Despite its association with older age, the rising cases in young women underscored the need for early diagnosis. Dr. Tan emphasized that women, often managing multiple roles, needed support in this challenging battle and that THKD provided solutions for equitable health and better outcomes.

“While breast cancer is commonly associated with age, an alarming increase in cases among young women underscores the urgent need for early detection and diagnosis. Women are often the backbone of their families; managing a cancer diagnosis while juggling roles as mothers, daughters, and professionals is an incredible challenge.” – Dr. Tan Gie Hooi

Dr. Zamzuri Zakaria, a Consultant Breast, Endocrine & General Surgeon, debunked myths about breast cancer, as misconceptions could be as harmful as the disease, and reminded the public that factual knowledge will facilitate informed decisions.

Dietitian Ginny Tan Gin Wei stressed the role of nutrition in reducing breast cancer risk, highlighting food as medicine. She provided insights on dietary choices that protect and nourish, emphasizing their critical role in prevention.

Finally, CEO Nadiah Wan reflected on Pink October’s importance, reminding us to understand breast cancer, its risks, and the significance of early screening.

She added that THKD is dedicated to providing comprehensive women’s health services, providing specialised care for women across various medical disciplines, including obstetrics & gynaecology, oncology, and breast & oncoplastic surgery.

“Oncology & Nuclear Medicine @ Thomson Hospital is designed to house all cancer treatment modalities under one facility to provide multi-disciplinary care with the best experience throughout the entire patient journey. We work with NGOs and patient support groups because we understand that a cancer diagnosis affects not just patients, but also their family, friends and the community around them” – Nadiah Wan

The facility has performed over 2,600 diagnostic and therapeutic procedures with oncology patients in areas such as cervix, breast, lung, rectum, head, neck and brain. Among these, the radiotherapy team has treated breast cancer patients using the Deep Inspiration Breath Hold (DIBH) technique, and brain cancer with radiotherapy and craniospinal irradiation (CSI).

In conjunction with Pink October 2023, THKD is offering:

• Breast ultrasound (bilateral) at RM229
• 3D Digital mammogram (bilateral) at RM299
• Breast ultrasound (bilateral) + 3D digital mammogram (bilateral) at RM379

THKD also offers women health screening packages specifically designed to cater to a variety of women’s health needs, focusing on feminine health, pre-marital check-ups, sexual health, and more

By making healthcare more accessible, educational, and empowering, THKD is taking significant steps in the fight against breast cancer. For more information and updates, you can visit THKD’s website or follow them on social media platforms under @thomsonhospitalKD.