Wear it Pink, Breast Cancer Awareness: Afternoon Tea & Talk at Pantai Hospital KL

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month this Pink October, Pantai Hospital KL hosted an inspiring "Wear It Pink" Afternoon Tea & Talk on October 27, 2024. This session brought together courageous voices from the cancer survivor community, expert healthcare providers, and supportive brands like XIXILI, committed to empowering women and promoting breast health.

Embracing Conversations: Redefining Norms

The event opened with a discussion led by Ms. Jeyasothi from Cancerlink Society Kuantan and Dr. Azlina Firzah. Ms. Jeyasothi, a leader and cancer survivor herself, organized a dedicated group to journey from Kuantan to Kuala Lumpur to attend this meaningful gathering. She shared her inspiring story of resilience during her diagnosis amid the 2020 pandemic lockdown, painting a picture of the strength required to navigate healthcare barriers. Her words resonated deeply with the audience: “Cancer is not a death sentence. When my condition allowed, I traveled and continued to dress as usual, finding ways to embrace life despite the challenges.”

Dr. Azlina expanded on the struggles faced by cancer patients on the East Coast, including the logistical hurdles due to limited specialist availability. "Why not just go to a nearby clinic?" police had once questioned. She explained the need for cross-border travel to receive specialized care, illustrating the challenges many Malaysian cancer patients still face.

Primary Care: GPs as Pillars of Support

Dr. Rema, director of BraVida, highlighted the invaluable role that primary care physicians play in the breast cancer journey. From early detection and diagnosis to managing treatments and monitoring post-care health, GPs provide essential support throughout a patient's journey. She emphasized that GPs fill the gap between specialist appointments, offering guidance for side treatment management, tracking signs of recurrence, and helping to alleviate mental health changes—a support system that is as important as the medical treatments themselves.

Advancements in Surgical Management of Breast Cancer

Dr. Patricia, a consultant breast surgeon, emphasized the importance of early detection and provided insights into breast cancer’s symptoms, such as lumps, nipple retraction, and skin changes. Sharing advancements in surgical options, that is primary surgical methods, adjuvant therapies post-surgery, and neo-adjuvant treatments (administered before surgery). As what Dr Patricia said, breast cancer is not death sentence, the key is to detect it early, and do the appropriate treatment.

Innovative Clinical Treatments: Shaping the Future

Finally, Dr. Mastura, a clinical oncologist, shared insights on treatments thorugh real-life case studies, highlighting differencet cancer types and the advancement of offering new hop to patients.

After the session concluded, attendees were treated to a variety of refreshements and afternoon tea, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for further conversations. An interactive Q&A session followed, where attendees engaged actively by asking questions, deepening their understanding and making the discussion more insightful. 

Outside the main hall, various booths were set up, offering additional resources, information on breast health, and opportunities for attendees to engage with health and wellness brands

The 'Wear It Pink' event highlighted that breast cancer is not an end but a journey met with resilience, a strong support network, and advances in medical care. Events like these inspire a future where awareness, early detection, and community support reshape the experiences of those affected by breast cancer.