Nearly 250,000 cancer cases reported in Malaysia since 2017

Cancer remains the third leading cause of death in the country, says Health Minister

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (MNTV) – Malaysia has reported nearly 250,000 cancer cases between 2017 and 2023, with a rising death rate.

Cancer now ranks as the third leading cause of death in the country, accounting for 14% of all deaths in 2023, up from 13% in the previous year, according to the Health Minister.

The five most common types of cancer in Malaysia are breast, colorectal, lung, lymphoma, and liver. 

Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad emphasized that while cancer continues to be a major health issue, there is hope through collective action focused on prevention, early screening, and improving access to treatment. 

He highlighted that the Ministry of Health is actively working to reform the country’s health system to address these challenges.

As part of these efforts, Malaysia plans to present the Lung Health Resolution at the World Health Assembly (WHA) this year, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and 14 other member states. 

This initiative aims to make lung health a key global health agenda and encourage more investment in lung cancer screening and treatment.

In a significant move last year, Malaysia led the historic submission of the WHO Lung Health Resolution at the World Cancer Congress held in Geneva, Switzerland, marking an important step in tackling the global burden of lung disease.

While cancer remains a major health concern in Malaysia, efforts to improve prevention, treatment access, and global cooperation bring hope for reducing the disease’s impact.