The Bruneian scientific research community, supported by His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s government, achieved several milestones this year.
Three studies conducted by researchers from the Pantai Jerudong Specialist Centre (PJSC), Ministry of Health (MoH) and Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) were published in the Lancet journal. The research projects were led by Consultant (Public Health) at MoH, visiting consultant to PJSC and adjunct professor at the Pengiran Anak Puteri Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Institute of Health Sciences, UBD Dr Ong Sok King.
The studies provided a detailed picture of cancer burden and risk profile in Asia. They underscored commendations of universal health coverage as supported by a robust healthcare system, reducing stigma and addressing sociocultural barriers for early diagnosis of cancers.
A matrix of national codes or key recommendations against cancer were developed, these include taking actions to prevent or control tobacco consumption, obesity, unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, exposure to occupational and environmental toxins, vaccination against infectious agents, and promoting breastfeeding.
A highlight from the Lancet article included a recommendation to avoid alcohol consumption for the Asian population. This recommendation aligns with the latest global scientific findings and adheres to latest guidelines from the World Health Organization.