Cancer continues to be one of Malaysia's leading health concerns, with the latest data showing that an average of 110 people are diagnosed with the disease every day.
According to the National Cancer Institute (Institut Kanser Negara, IKN), the most commonly diagnosed cancers in Malaysia are breast, colorectal (colon and rectum), prostate, lung and uterine cancer.
The figures are based on the latest data collected by the Malaysian National Cancer Registry. Among men, 18,240 new cancer cases were recorded in 2024, with colorectal, lung and prostate cancers being the most frequently diagnosed.
Among women, 21,958 new cancer cases were reported during the same year. Breast cancer remained the most common, followed by colorectal and uterine cancers.
Combined, these figures translate to approximately 110 new cancer diagnoses every single day across the country.
Fortunately, free cancer screenings are available through various organizations in Malaysia:
National Cancer Society of Malaysia (NCSM)
- Provides free health checks for individuals aged 40–59
- Works with communities and NGOs to offer free mammograms for underprivileged women
- Offers workplace health screening programs
Majlis Kanser Nasional (MAKNA)
- Provides free mammograms, especially for underserved communities
- Operates mobile screening trailers in rural areas
- Offers financial assistance programs for cancer patients
Etiqa
- Offers free mammograms for underprivileged women aged 40 and above
- Has partnered with NCSM since 2017 to support breast cancer screening
For more information about free cancer screenings, you can contact NCSM at 1800881000 or email [email protected] or [email protected]
Cancer does not wait. Get screened. Take action today.
Image Credit : RiverView Health, Majlis Kanser Nasional , KOSMO