Oncologists report a surge in breast, colorectal and lung cancer cases among patients in their 40s and 50s, urging early screening to combat late diagnosis and rising costs.
PETALING JAYA: Breast, colorectal and lung cancers remain Malaysia’s most commonly diagnosed, but a rising trend of younger patients is sounding the alarm among oncologists.
Consultant clinical oncologist Dr Malwinder Singh Sandhu noted that while these cancers have long topped national statistics, a worrying shift has emerged.
“We used to see most cases among those in their 60s and 70s, but we are now seeing more patients in their 40s and 50s,” he said, citing sedentary lifestyles, poor diets and high-risk behaviours as key factors.
The overall rise in cases is also partly attributed to improved and more widespread screening.
“Every year, the numbers increase, as reflected in the national registry. With more screening, we are detecting more cases and in some instances, catching them earlier,” he added.
However, Malwinder highlighted a stark gap between private and public healthcare. Patients in private hospitals, he said, are often diagnosed earlier, while those in government facilities tend to present at later stages – a disparity largely driven by socioeconomic factors.
“Patients in the private sector generally have higher socioeconomic status, greater health awareness and better access to information. In contrast, those in government hospitals are often from lower-income groups with limited health knowledge. Many do not prioritise screening, resulting in late detection.”
Compounding this issue is the rising cost of insurance. Malwinder observed that many patients struggle with escalating premiums or exhaust their coverage mid-treatment.
“We are seeing more patients who either lose their insurance or can no longer afford it halfway through their care. When that happens, they are referred to government hospitals,” he said, noting the added strain on public facilities.
Beyond financial hurdles, fear and misinformation remain major barriers, he added.
“Many people ignore symptoms because they are afraid it could be cancer. There is also a persistent myth that a biopsy causes cancer to spread. This is completely untrue, but it still prevents people from seeking a timely diagnosis.”
Malwinder stressed that treatment is not always prohibitively expensive, noting that older, more affordable treatments and generic medicines remain highly effective.
“Government healthcare services ensure treatment remains accessible even for those with limited means,” he said.
Prevention, he emphasised, relies on a “triple threat” approach – vaccination, lifestyle changes and early detection.
He pointed to the HPV vaccine’s success in reducing cervical cancer but warned that Malaysia’s high obesity rates – among the highest in Asia – remain a significant risk factor for cancer and recurrence.
HPV vaccine protects against certain cancers caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection that can cause cervical cancer and cancers affecting the vagina, vulva, penis, anus and throat.
While acknowledging that some cancers are driven by genetics or environmental exposure, Malwinder’s message for World Cancer Day remains focused on proactive care.
“Early detection not only improves survival but also reduces treatment intensity and lowers costs. A stage one breast cancer patient may only need surgery. By stage three, they may require surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and targeted therapy. My message is clear – go for your regular screening. Don’t wait until it’s too late.”
