By Zareef Muzammil
SHAH ALAM, Feb 5 — The state government will launch the Selangor Cancer (CanSEL) programme this year to provide access to tools for early detection to people suffering from the disease.
State executive councillor for health Dr Siti Mariah Mahmud said the initiative, targeting Selangor citizens in 56 constituencies, will be conducted simultaneously with the Selangor Screening programme with the involvement of various stakeholders.
“This programme provides early screening test facilities including the mammogram, colorectal and prostate tests,” she said on Facebook yesterday.
Dr Siti Mariah added that since last year, Selangor has shown its commitment to developing a sustainable cancer care solution through the City Cancer Challenger (CCAN) initiative.
She said several cities such as Shah Alam, Subang Jaya and Petaling Jaya have been involved in the planning and implementation of the initiative at the local councils level.
“The commitment towards making CCAN a success also came from various organisations including Universiti Malaya, the National Cancer Society of Malaysia, hospitals and private healthcare centres.
“This includes their involvement in the CCAN networking programme which was held on January 29 to share insights on the cancer care solution,” she said.
Meanwhile, in conjunction with World Cancer Day which is celebrated on February 4 every year, she said the programme serves as a reminder for the community to increase their awareness of the disease.
She said the equity gap in cancer care has to be evaluated from several aspects involving the early screening facilities, treatment, medications and affordable healthcare services.
“May our efforts to closing the gap in cancer care could be carried out collectively and efficiently for the people’s well-being,” she said.
