Her Royal Highness, DYMM Tuanku Zara Salim, Raja Permaisuri Perak Darul Ridzuan, graced the launching of the “Purple Truck” by MCIS Life and National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM), a mobile health clinic offering free cancer screening services for rural Malaysians nationwide at Padang Ipoh yesterday.
The 17-feet customised mobile health clinic is a collaborative effort between MCIS Life and NCSM that will also be used as a platform for organising cancer and non-communicable diseases awareness workshops in rural areas.
“The growing trend of cancer presenting at a later stage is alarming. Early detection is key and everyone should have equal access to healthcare examinations regardless of location or income status. MCIS Life is proud to partner with NCSM on this life-saving initiative.” said Ragunath Murthy, MCIS Life’s Chief Distribution & Marketing Officer
DYMM Tuanku Zara Salim officiated the Purple Truck by signing on a commemorative plaque witnessed by YBhg. Datin Seri Aezer Binti Zubin, YDP of Badan Amal dan Usaha Isteri Negeri Perak (BAIDURI).
Also present was State Exco for Housing, Local Government and Tourism Dato’ Nolee Ashilin Mohammed Radzi and Ipoh Mayor Dato Rumaizi Baharin.
“Cancer is a disease that many Malaysians fear, but the general public’s awareness and knowledge about the signs and symptoms of common cancers are still poor. Cancer treatment facilities are primarily only found in large cities; therefore, it is hoped that with this iconic truck, we can reach more Malaysians to spread cancer awareness and screening for early detection,” added Dato’ Dr Saunthari Somasundaram, President of NCSM.
The “Purple Truck” community outreach programmes will be carried out by NCSM’s ‘mobile team’ composed of trained medical personnel, experienced health educators, and committed healthcare volunteers.
Among the programmes lined up in its inaugural roadshow are talks and interactive workshops on health improvement and cancer and non-communicable disease awareness, general health assessments and three types of cancer screening.
The “Purple Truck” initiative will focus on the top three cancers in Malaysia: breast, cervical, and
colorectal. The tests for colorectal cancer and early examination for breast cancer can be carried out on the spot while cervical cancer samples will be taken, and the results given to patients personally via phone or email.
Through early detection, patients’ chances of survival improve significantly, securing a better quality of life, and drastically reducing their treatment costs. All suspicious cases are referred to nearby hospitals or NCSM for further diagnosis.
The Purple Truck will kick start its journey with a team of trained healthcare professionals and volunteers from NCSM to locations all across Peninsular Malaysia. One of the highlights of the Purple Truck’s journey will be its visit to Sireh Park in Johor in conjunction with MCIS Life’s brand anniversary celebrations.
A full map and calendar of the Purple Truck’s journey will be made available on NCSM’s website
(www.cancer.org.my)
