Safeguard your health and wellbeing: Stay ahead of cancer
Whether it affects us directly or someone we hold dear, we are shaken to the core when cancer strikes. Despite the devastating impact of cancer, awareness about its symptoms and risks remains alarmingly low across the nation, lagging behind high-income countries.1
Cancer Never Discriminates – It only complicates
Regardless of our status, conduct, or health, cancer strikes without bias. With over 200 types demanding urgent attention, the race for a cure is relentless. Despite our persistent search for cure, cancer is a global illness that continues to plague us. In Malaysia:
• 48,639 new cancer cases were reported in 2020
• By 2040, the incidence of cancer is predicted to double
• Approximately one in every 10 individuals in Malaysia will receive a cancer diagnosis in their lifetime while one in seven before the age of 75
• Worsened by COVID-19, cancer patients were diagnosed later than expected which may lead to reduction of survival productivity, and higher treatment cost
• The five most common cancer are breast cancer, colorectal cancer, lung cancer, nasopharyngeal cancer and liver cancer
Cancer Never Discriminates – But if affects people differently
Evolving gradually and unpredictably, cancer is influenced by diverse factors. While family history is not a guarantee of inheritance, recognising potential links is vital. Dispelling myths and raising awareness empowers us to understand individual risks, taking proactive measures to safeguard our loved ones. By prioritising preventive screenings and early detection, we pave the way for a safer and healthier future.
In Malaysia, the odds of developing cancer are significant – one in every 10 males and one in every nine females face this risk before the age of 75:
5 Most Common Cancers in Malaysia by Gender
Male
• Lung cancer (17%)
• Colorectal cancer (15.4%)
• Prostate cancer (9.3%)
• Nasopharynx cancer (7.4%)
• Liver cancer (6.7%)
Female
• Breast cancer (32.9%)
• Colorectal cancer (11.9%)
• Ovarian cancer (7.2%)
• Cervical cancer (6.8%)
• Corpus uteri cancer (5.5%)
Cancer’s outcome hinges on various factors such as cancer type, stage, grade, and location in the patient’s body. Age, health, and treatment response also shape the course of this disease.
Cancer Never Discriminates – But there is hope
Battling cancer is a taxing journey, not just physically but emotionally and financially. Therefore, it is vital to possess financial literacy to navigate the complexities of care. Let’s arm ourselves and our loved ones to fight this battle, empowering them with resilience and support:
• Nail down precise medical costs upfront – medicines, travel, hospital fees, clinical trials, and more.
• Explore bill management options – consult doctors, financial counsellors, or NGOs for assistance and funding alternatives.
• Unearth resources to lighten the cancer care burden – robust health insurance can ease financial strain, allowing patients to prioritise recovery.
Considering the undeniable reality that cancer can strike anyone at any time and any place, it becomes imperative to ensure preparedness for unforeseen challenges. Securing insurance coverage is a proactive step that not only alleviates potential financial burdens on loved ones but also offers peace of mind during difficult times. With a minimal monthly premium of just RM6.50* with PRUCancer Safe (this is an insurance product) for a coverage of RM50,000, you can safeguard your future and that of your family. Remember, taking control of your life means making thoughtful insurance plans without delay. Procrastination could prove costly, so act now and make a decision that has the potential to save lives
Click here to customise your cancer protection plan now!
