The Ministry of Health is conducting free screening programmes for cancer, Pantai Jerudong Specialist Centre (PJSC) consultant and head of Early Detection and Cancer Prevention Services Datin Dr Hajah Noraslinah binti Haji Ramlee said.
Datin Dr Hajah Noraslinah who spoke on ‘Women’s Cancer: From Awareness to Action’ covering breast cancer, cervical cancer as well as gynaecological cancer such as ovarian cancer and cancer of the uterus, said it is important to create awareness because cancer is now the number one cause of death in Brunei.
She was speaking at a cancer awareness talk hosted by International School Brunei (ISB).
Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Muntaqim ibni Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah was among those participating at the talk at the school’s international baccalaureate (IB) workroom yesterday.
Consultant medical oncologist at PJSC Dr Raden Mas Jeffri bin Raden Mas Ismail’s presentation on ‘Common Cancers in Males: Negara Brunei Darussalam’, highlighted the importance of understanding the risk factors of cancer and to stay healthy with proper exercise, a balanced diet and avoiding smoking.
“Having a healthy lifestyle is beneficial in terms of cardiovascular health, mental health, physical health and it also reduces the risk of cancer,” he said.
PJSC staff nurse Nacielle Garcia G Castardo who spoke on breast cancer, focused on breast self-examination.
The event also featured an exhibition where PJSC set up booths with informational posters, leaflets and interactive games.
ISB Executive Principal and Chief Executive Officer Dominic Morley, ISB Head of Administration and Chief Financial Officer Vienna Law, teachers as well as years 12 and 13 students attended the talk. – Adib Noor
