NEOPLASIA 3/2015

ISSUE 03/2015

WORLD CANCER DAY 2016

WE CAN. I CAN. 4 FEBRUARY #AirAsiaMAKNA Campaign Contributes to Cancer Awareness in Malaysia Relay for Life 2015 PG 13

MOVEMBER – The Ultimate Shave Off

PG 07

PG 17 PG 36

Campaign Finale

Targeted Cancer Therapy

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13 01 From the President’s Desk News & Happenings 04 Forging Stronger Ties to Benefit Patients 05 Travel With A Purpose 07 #AirAsia MAKNA Campaign Contributes to Cancer

Awareness in Malaysia

in Perlis

09 Shop & Give Back @souqCONNECTION 10 Volunteer Leaders Meet for the 2nd Time in 2015 11 Fun Walk With MAKNA Volunteers 13 Relay For Life 2015 15 Titian Muhibah Penyambung Kasih

11-13 September 2015 with JICS and PERKEN

Feature Story 17 Movember – The Ultimate Shave Off Campaign Finale 19 My Experience Surviving Prostate Cancer 21 Prostate and Testicular Cancer International 22 The World is Prioritizing Sustainability and

MAKNA is Part Of It

24 Sustainable Development: A New Age for

The World and For Cancer

27 Good Deeds and Greater Outreach in Vietnam Cover Story 33 World Cancer Day 2016 Research 36 Targeted Cancer Therapy 39 Pink October - A MAKNA-USM Cancer

Awareness Campaign

41 Merawat Kanser Dengan Durian Belanda?

42 Treating Cancer With Soursop?

Life Goes On 46 Kasih Ibu Membawa Ke Syurga, Kasih Ayah

Sepanjang Masa

47 Seeing Good Work Humour 49 Laugh Together Lah Feedback 51 Feedback From Donors 52 Feedback From Volunteer

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EDITORIAL Penasihat / Advisors Dato’ Mohd Farid Ariffin Farahida Mohd Farid Editorial Geraldine Teoh Prema Ramasamy Penyumbang / Contributors Camilo Cupitre Dina Zaman Latipah Saat’ Nhan TB Dinh Dr Oon Chern Ein Priyadarhini Subramaniam Suhaila Nik Tan Yi Jer Dr Teoh Hoon Koon Diterbitkan oleh / Published by National Cancer Council (MAKNA) BG 03A & 05, Ground Floor, Megan Ambassy, 225 Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur.

Tel: +603-2162 9178 Fax: +603-2162 9203 Email: makna@makna.org.my www.makna.org.my www.facebook.com/maknacancer www.twitter.com/makna_malaysia

Seeing Good Work IMPORTANT MESSAGE: The content here is general in nature and is provided for information purpose only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your physician on any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.

Dicetak oleh / Printed by Percetakan Jiwabaru Sdn Bhd No.2 Jalan P/8, Kawasan MIEL Fasa 2, Bandar Baru Bangi, 43650 Bangi, Selangor Darul Ehsan.

Tel: +603-8925 6688 Fax: +603-8925 1688 Rekacipta / Design SG Global Support Services Sdn Bhd Level 18, Axiata Tower, No. 9 Jalan Stesen Sentral 5, KL Sentral, 50470 Kuala Lumpur.

Tel: +603-2260 1717 Fax: +603 2260 2211 www.sgglobalsupport.com

PRESIDENT’S DESK

WORLD CANCER DAY 2015 Bismillahirahmanirrahim, Assalamualaikum w.b.t and Salam Sejahtera

Dear friends, World Cancer Day takes place on 4 February each year. It is an important day for MAKNA and for many around the world. This day was first organised by the International Union Against Cancer in 2005. It calls for a strong alliance between researchers, healthcare professionals, patients, governments, industry partners and the media in the fight against cancer.

If you, like so many of us, know someone who has either survived or died from this terrible disease, then this is the perfect chance to raise awareness of the ways we can prevent cancer through the choices we make.

It is a horrifying figure but each year over approximately 12.7 million people worldwide receive a cancer diagnosis and 7.6 million people die from the disease. Cancer is a leading cause of death around the world, according to WHO, which estimates that 84 million people will die of cancer between 2005 and 2015 without intervention. However did you know that 30-40% of cancers can be cured through early diagnosis and treatment?

This is the reason why we at MAKNA hope to keep our supporters informed on the importance of a healthy lifestyle and we do what we can to prevent cancer by spreading the word and supporting research towards this end. Low-income and medium-income countries are harder hit by cancer than the high-resource countries and Malaysia is in this group. Therefore it is essential that governments and NGOs address our growing cancer burden and work on effective control measures. Much needs to be done. MAKNA is here to help. We Can, I Can. We can help, we can support but as individuals we can also do our part. No matter how small you think it is, each effort contributes to a greater whole.

Each year World Cancer Day focuses on a different issue that we can try and affect change in ourselves. For 2016, the theme is We Can, I Can. I believe that the core purpose of the day regardless of the theme is to highlight solutions that do exist and take a proactive approach in the fight against cancer – cancer affects everyone, no matter where they may be in the world! So if I Can, so Can You.

Farid 01

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PRESIDENT’S DESK

WORLD CANCER DAY 2015 Bismillahirahmanirrahim, Assalamualaikum w.b.t and Salam Sejahtera

Saudara saudari yang saya hormati, Hari Kanser Sedunia disambut setiap tahun pada 4 Februari. Hari ini merupakan hari yang penting buat MAKNA dan juga individu serta pertubuhan lain di seluruh dunia. Hari ini disambut buat pertama kalinya oleh Kesatuan Antarabangsa Kawalan Kanser pada tahun 2005. Tujuan sambutan adalah untuk mewujudkan hubungan yang lebih kukuh di kalangan para penyelidik, profesional penjagaan kesihatan, pesakit, kerajaan, rakan industri serta pihak media dalam melawan kanser.

Sekiranya anda mengenali seseorang sama ada yang telah pulih atau meninggal dunia akibat penyakit yang malang ini, maka inilah peluangnya untuk meningkatkan kesedaran berhubung dengan cara bagaimana kita boleh mencegah kanser melalui pilihan yang kita buat.

Setiap tahun dianggarkan 12.7 juta orang didiagnosis dengan kanser di seluruh dunia dan 7.6 juta orang mati akibat penyakit ini. Kanser merupakan penyebab kematian yang utama di dunia, di mana WHO menganggarkan 84 juta orang akan mati akibat kanser antara tahun 2005 dan 2015 sekiranya tiada langkah pencegahan dilakukan. Namun begitu, adakah anda tahu bahawa antara 30-40% daripada jumlah penyakit kanser boleh diubati melalui diagnosis dan rawatan awal?

Itulah sebabnya MAKNA berharap agar dapat memaklumkan para penyokongnya tentang kepentingan mengamalkan gaya hidup sihat serta apa yang kita boleh lakukan untuk mencegah kanser melalui penyampaian maklumat dan menyokong usaha-usaha penyelidikan. Negara-negara berpendapatan rendah dan sederhana mengalami kesan yang lebih teruk akibat kanser berbanding negara berpendapatan tinggi dan Malaysia berada dalam kumpulan yang kurang bernasib baik ini. Oleh itu penting untuk pihak kerajaan dan badan-badan NGO berusaha untuk meringankan beban kanser yang semakin meningkat dan berusaha untuk mencari langkah pengawalan yang berkesan. Masih banyak yang perlu dilakukan dan MAKNA bersedia membantu. Kita Boleh, Saya Boleh. Kita boleh membantu dan memberi sokongan tetapi sebagai individu kita juga boleh mengambil bahagian tidak kira sekecil mana, kerana setiap langkah yang dilakukan akan menyumbang kepada usaha mencegah penyakit yang sukar dirawat ini.

Setiap tahun Hari Kanser Sedunia memberi tumpuan kepada isu-isu yang berbeza dalam usaha untuk membawa perubahan ke arah penyelesaian. Tema untuk tahun 2016 ialah Kita Boleh, Saya Boleh. Bagi saya, tidak kira apa tema yang direka, tujuan utamanya adalah untuk memberi kesedaran bahawa penyelesaiannya memang ada dan kita perlu mengambil langkah yang proaktif untuk mencegah penyakit ini. Kanser boleh berlaku kepada sesiapa tidak kira di mana mereka berada! Jika Saya Boleh, Anda pun Boleh.

Farid www.makna.org.my

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PRESIDENT’S DESK

WORLD CANCER DAY 2015

亲爱的朋友们， 每年的2月4日是世界抗癌日。它对MAKNA以及全球各地许多人而言 是一个重要的日子。 这一天是由国际抗癌联盟（UICC）于2005年 首次举办，旨在加强研究人员、健康护理专才、病患、各国政府、 企业伙伴们以及媒体界之间的联盟来携手对抗癌症。 若您和我们一样曾认识已成功逃离或难逃此病症魔掌而死亡的人， 那这就是提高醒觉意识的最佳良机，从而通过我们所做的选择来预 防癌症。 每年全球有超过1,270万人被诊断罹患癌症，而760万人死于此病 症。这是一个非常可怕的数字。根据世界卫生组织（WHO），癌症 是全球主要死因之一，估计在2005年至2015年期间将有8,400万人 在没有任何干预措施下死于癌症。尽管如此，您是否知道只要通过 及早诊断和治疗，有30%至40%的癌症是可以治愈的呢？ 这就是我们作为MAKNA的一份子想要让我们的支持者能够时时获知 健康生活方式的重要性，以及尽可能宣导预防癌症和相关支持性研 究报告之原因。低收入和中等收入国家会比高资源国家受到癌症更 大的冲击，而马来西亚就是被归类为此组别。因此，政府和非政府 组织设法应对我们日益加剧的癌症负担和执行有效的控制措施极为 重要。还有很多必须要做的事待处理，而MAKNA已随时候命。我们 能，我能（We Can, I Can）。我们能帮忙，我们能提供支持，就 算是一个人也能尽一己之力，无论您认为您所付出的是多么微不足 道，但众志成城，微小力量也能成为一股庞大的力量。 每年的世界抗癌日都会把焦点放在不同的课题上，以便尝试为我 们自身带来改变。而2016年的主题是We Can, I Can（我们能，我 能）。我相信撇开这一天的主题，我们的主旨是想强调解决方案是 存在的，而我们必须采取积极措施来对抗癌症—癌症影响着每一个 人，无论他们身在何处！所以，若我能，你也能。

法立

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NEWS & HAPPENINGS

Forging Stronger Ties to Benefit Patients MAKNA 8th BURSARY MEETING 20-22 OCTOBER 2015

MAKNA recently held its 8th Bursary Meeting, a gathering that occurs every two years and one that assembled the officers from the Department of Medical Social Work (Jabatan Kerja Sosial Perubatan) in the 88 government hospitals that referred cases to MAKNA, as well as representatives from the Department of Social Welfare (Jabatan Kebajikan Masyarakat), National Population and Family Development Board (Lembaga Penduduk dan Pembangunan Keluarga Negara (LPPKN)) under the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development, and the Social Security Organisation or PERKESO (Pertubuhan Keselamatan Sosial).

The meeting served as a fertile platform for information and idea exchange, especially among the various agencies in attendance, as it was likely the first occasion ever that these agencies were gathered for such purpose. Officers from the Department of Medical Social Work, especially, found the presentations by the other agencies informative, as it provided them with a more in-depth understanding of the aids available to patients in need of help. All participants were also

given a closer look at the way MAKNA processed cases, and the challenges faced. MAKNA also delivered a presentation that introduced a new, paperless system to process cases which would reduce human errors and processing time. The various officers were given the opportunity as well to discuss the obstacles they encountered when referring cases to MAKNA and to suggest possible solutions.

Aside from cooperating on work-related discussions, the officers collaborated on a string of team-building activities. In addition to adding an element of fun, these activities provided further opportunities for bonding and building a sense of camaraderie among participants.

The 8th Bursary Meeting came to an end on 22 October after a productive two and a half days of interaction and learning. MAKNA would like to thank the representatives from all agencies who took the time to be part of the gathering and hopes that the ties built would lead to better partnership and ultimately better services to help cancer patients in need of aid.

www.makna.org.my

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NEWS & HAPPENINGS

Travel With A Purpose Kempen Travelling Beruang, a fund-raising and awareness campaign that started in June 2015, has garnered much public attention and support. From the Travelling Bear to actor Ungku Ismail Aziz, the ambassador of the campaign, as he made his way across six destinations, inspired by the wish to see the world of Adik Mime (Nurhasmime Abdul Hamid), a young leukaemia patient from Terengganu, whom he met while researching a role.

The meeting inspired Ungku Ismail and TV3, together with sponsors, AirAsia and Altel, to devise a campaign that aimed to bring greater attention to the plight of children with cancer and to raise funds in their aid. The main idea was for Ungku Ismail to bring the iconic bear along his travels to create an identity for the campaign and for him to record his travelling experience that could be viewed by Adik Mime and other young cancer patients in addition to the public and followers of the campaign. Members of the public who would like to lend their support to the campaign and to young cancer patients could also take photos of themselves with the bear during their travels and upload the photos using #TravellingBeruang. Since the campaign’s launch, as many as 8,000 photos have been uploaded to Instagram. Apart from the public, the campaign has also received the support of many celebrities, including Fara Fauzana, Elfira Loy, Shukri Yahaya,

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Azrel Ismail, Fiza Sabjahan, Izereen Azminda, Janna Nick and many more.

To further raise funds for the campaign, the Travelling Bear is sold at RM65 at TV3’s wowshopping.com.my, Altel Concept Store and onboard AirAsia domestic flights. All proceeds from the sales will be channelled to the Tabung Travelling Beruang MAKNA. In addition, all three partners of the campaign have pledged to donate to the campaign – TV3 contributed RM25,000, AirAsia RM65,000 and Altel RM21,645. Funds are expected to grow with ongoing donation from the public, which can be made directly to the campaign’s account.

In addition, surprise visits were organised to the young cancer patients in the Paediatric Institute under Hospital Kuala Lumpur and to Hospital Universiti Sains in Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, where Adik Mime was seeking treatment to find out her progress and condition.

Another initiative of the campaign is the launch of the telemovie, “Travelling Beruang”, in November.

Charity screenings were held for the telemovie at GSC Tropicana City Mall and TGV The Mines on 24 and 25 October respectively. All proceeds collected from the charity screenings were again channelled to the campaign.

NEWS & HAPPENINGS

“We hope that this campaign would be able to raise a significant amount of funds on a continuous basis to benefit young cancer patients in Malaysia. Having the Travelling Bear, which has been “seen” in destinations such as London, Paris, Australia, Oman, Japan and the United States, as the campaign’s icon has helped to realise one of our objectives – to create a symbol of hope for young cancer patients who harbour the dream of travelling to various parts of the world,” said Ahmad Izham Omar, Chief Executive Officer of Media Prima Berhad.

MAKNA would like to thank TV3, AirAsia and Altel for their efforts in launching the campaign and ensuring its success. Most importantly, MAKNA is grateful to members of the public who have embraced the campaign and shown immense support towards the cause of helping cancer patients.

For more information regarding the campaign, visit www.travellingberuang.com.my.

To donate to MAKNA via Tabung Travelling Beruang, please refer to the bank and account details below: Members of the public can make donations via Maybank: Name: Tabung Travelling Beruang MAKNA Account number: 514075616705 To find out more, visit www.travellingberuang.com.my

www.makna.org.my

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NEWS & HAPPENINGS

#

MAKNA

CAMPAIGN Contributes to

CANCER Awarness IN MALAYSIA AirAsia recently raised over RM120,000 for MAKNA through a five-month cancer awareness campaign themed #AirAsiaMAKNA. This campaign raised funds for MAKNA via the sale of limited-edition T-shirts that featured the iconic AirAsia cabin crew and pilot uniform designs. Designed by the AirAsiaAllstars team, the T-shirts were sold at RM30 per piece at 23 onground locations throughout Malaysia, as well as via the MAKNA website’s online store.

“AirAsia wanted to play a part in educating the general public about early prevention as well as to give back to the community we serve. At every #AirAsiaMAKNA sales location, MAKNA was there to provide information and guidelines to the general public, encouraging them to learn and help those in need.

“In addition, we also leveraged on our social media strength to disseminate simple crucial information about cancer. This has been well received by the members of the public,” said Aireen Omar, CEO of

AirAsia Berhad, who presented the funds raised to MAKNA General Manager, Farahida Mohd Farid.

MAKNA has done an amazing job in helping cancer patients nationwide for the past two decades.

We hope that the funds raised through this campaign will help them continue the great work they are doing, she added.

As part of the #AirAsiaMAKNA campaign, the airline also ran an Instagram contest where members of the public who have purchased the T-shirt could upload their most creative photos while wearing the T-shirt.

Airline raised over RM 120,000 for MAKNA through a five-month long CSR campaign.

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NEWS & HAPPENINGS

Farahida Mohd Farid, MAKNA General Manager, sharing her thoughts alongside Aireen Omar, CEO AirAsia Berhad, and cancer patients and surviors.

The contest saw over 750 entries. Throughout the duration of the campaign, AirAsia also posted fast facts about cancer on the airline’s social media platform to further raise cancer awareness.

but also further established its innovative, can-do spirit.

MAKNA is honoured to have AirAsia join us in our cause,

This campaign is not just to raise funds, but also awareness. It enables MAKNA to reach out to more people and spread muchneeded information, which is just as important. The more we talk about cancer, the more people understand and are empowered to take ownership and better care of their health. With this campaign, AirAsia has not only demonstrated its social consciousness,

said Farahida Mohd Farid, General Manager, MAKNA. MAKNA aims to mobilise resources in order to provide curative, preventive, research and support services to cancer patients, their families, high-risk groups and also the general public within Malaysia and the region. It is the organisation’s mission to fight cancer and reduce related pain, morbidity and suffering that cancer patients undergo.

AirAsia, committed to make a difference in this cause, also teamed up with Media Prima Berhad to support its Travelling Beruang campaign, which was aimed at raising public awareness towards children with cancer in Malaysia. The cuddly Travelling Beruang was available for purchase at RM65 each, onboard AirAsia flights. All proceeds from the sales were channelled to MAKNA.

www.makna.org.my

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NEWS & HAPPENINGS

Shop & Give Back

@souqCONNECTION souqCONNECTION, the online Islamic shopping portal, that offers a platform for Muslim fashion designers to market and sell their products online, has launched a giving back to society initiative. souqCONNECTION has pledged to donate 2.5 percent of their sales to charity organisations – MAKNA being one of them – under their tagline, “Shop for Lifestyle, Donate for Afterlife”. Customers who shop at souqCONNECTION will have the flexibility to choose which organisation they would like the donation to be channelled to before they confirm their purchases. This campaign is an ongoing campaign, and those who would like to make any purchase from souqCONNECTION, are encouraged to visit http://www.souqconnection.com.

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NEWS & HAPPENINGS

Volunteer Leaders Meet for the 2nd Time in 2015 in Perlis

By Priyadarshini Subramaniam, MAKNA Volunteer Coordinator

The Quarterly Volunteer Leaders meeting, held on 1 and 2 August 2015 in Kuala Perlis, Perlis, was an eye opener and boost for the newly appointed Volunteer Coordinator and Volunteer Executive in discovering and getting to know the passionate and dedicated Volunteer Leaders of MAKNA. The meeting was a successful one as the volunteers had given much feedback and shared some of the challenges and achievements that they went through in carrying out their volunteer duties. All the sharing and knowledge shared had given great insights and determination to the new Volunteer Coordinator and Volunteer Executive to carry on and move forward with the expansion plans for the setting up of MAKNA Clubs in schools, private and public colleges as well as universities.

Apart from the scheduled meeting session, the Volunteer Coordinator also took the opportunity to get to know all the gathered Volunteer Leaders via

fun activities such as “Changemaker”; “North, South, East, West”; “Find Me” and “Circle Time : Let’s Get To Know Each Other Better”. All volunteers were invited to join the activities hosted by Perlis Volunteers for the cancer survivors and their family members, which incorporated the Family Day theme together with a belated Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration. Ties were strengthened during Family Day and sweet memories created with the various fun activities between all Volunteer Leaders and the cancer survivors.

Volunteers at MAKNA are truly doing “A Work of Heart”. To be a volunteer register yourself online at www.makna.org.my. To interested schools and tertiary education institutes, please contact Volunteer Coordinator, Priyadarshini Subramaniam at priyadarshini@makna.org.my to find out more on how to set up a MAKNA Club. Let’s together make a difference in the life of cancer patients in Malaysia.

GET INVOLVED! www.makna.org.my

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NEWS & HAPPENINGS

UNIT KESIHATAN UiTM PAHANG

“FUN WALK WITH MAKNA”

ANJURAN UNIT KESIHATAN UiTM CAWANGAN PAHANG DENGAN KERJASAMA BADAN PERTOLONGAN CEMAS SEMPENA SAMBUTAN 30 TAHUN UiTM

TEMPAT BANGUNAN LUCAENA, UiTM PAHANG TARIKH 12 DAN 13 SEPTEMBER 2015 MASA 8.00 – 5.00 TENGAHARI PESERTA WARGA UiTM CAWANGAN PAHANG. RINGKASAN AKTIVITI Program ini adalah sebahagian daripada sambutan ulang tahun penubuhan UiTM Cawangan Pahang yang ke-30. Program yang berlangsung selama 2 hari ini melibatkan aktiviti seperti “Fun Walk with MAKNA”, program derma darah, pemeriksaan mata, explorace kesihatan, pameran kesihatan dan sukaneka.

Di antara agensi kerajaan yang terlibat semasa program ini diadakan ialah Majlis Kanser Nasional (MAKNA), Hospital Tengku Ampuan Afzan, Kuantan, Hospital Jengka, 11

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Pejabat Kesihatan Daerah Maran dan Jabatan Optometri, Fakulti Sains Kesihatan UiTM Puncak Alam.

Pelancaran kutipan sumbangan untuk tabung MAKNA telah mendapat kelulusan dan sokongan daripada Rektor UiTM Cawangan Pahang pada 7 Julai 2015 dan bermula daripada tarikh itu pihak Unit Kesihatan dengan kerjasama Badan Pertolongan Cemas UiTM Cawangan Pahang telah mengedarkan surat untuk memohon sumbangan ke setiap bahagian dan unit di UiTM Cawangan Pahang, Kampus Jengka serta melancarkan tabung kutipan untuk MAKNA di setiap aktiviti

NEWS & HAPPENINGS

pelajar yang diadakan di dalam kampus UiTM Cawangan Pahang. Permohonan sumbangan kepada pihak luar di sekitar kawasan Jengka juga telah dibuat bagi membantu meringankan bebanan pesakitpesakit kanser di seluruh negara. Semua hasil kutipan sumbangan untuk tabung MAKNA yang berjumlah RM6000.00 telah diserahkan kepada wakil MAKNA, Habiba Abdul Rahman pada Majlis Penyerahan Sumbangan untuk tabung MAKNA pada 12 September 2015 bertempat di Bangunan Luceana, UiTM Cawangan Pahang. Sempena majlis penyerahan sumbangan tersebut juga telah diadakan aktiviti Fun Walk with MAKNA yang mana seramai 100 orang pelajar UiTM Cawangan Pahang telah berjalan mengelilingi kampus dengan membawa sepanduk MAKNA sebagai simbolik kepada sokongan padu yang diberikan oleh pihak UiTM Cawangan Pahang kepada pesakitpesakit kanser. Aktiviti ini telah diketuai oleh Timbalan Rektor Bahagian Hal Ehwal Pelajar; Tn Hj Mustafa Kamal bin Mat dengan diiringi oleh staf-staf Unit Kesihatan dan wakil dari MAKNA. RUMUSAN Secara umumnya program ini bertujuan untuk memberikan kesedaran kepada masyarakat tentang bahaya kanser serta beban yang terpaksa ditanggung oleh pesakit-pesakit kanser di seluruh negara.

Unit Kesihatan UiTM Pahang dengan kerjasama seluruh warga UiTM Cawangan Pahang telah berjaya mengumpulkan sejumlah dana bagi membantu meringankan bebanan pesakit-pesakit kanser yang kurang berkemampuan tersebut.

Semoga usaha Unit Kesihatan untuk menjalankan program-program sebegini akan terus mendapat sokongan sepenuhnya dari seluruh warga UiTM agar dapat menghasilkan masyarakat UiTM yang sihat dari segi fizikal, mental dan sosial.

www.makna.org.my

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VOLUNTEERS

RELAY FOR LIFE 2015

By Priyadarshini Subramaniam, MAKNA Volunteer Coordinator

16 hours of continued support and thoughts for those who had fought and are still fighting the battle.

MAKNA once again gave its full support to the annual Relay for Life, organised by the National Cancer Society of Malaysia (NCSM). MAKNA survivors, volunteers and staff made their presence felt at Dataran Petaling Jaya, the site of the relay, on 5 September 2015, from 6.00 pm until 10.00 am the following morning, by cheering on other survivors who were at the event for the courage they have shown in fighting cancer.

The opening walk was a sight to behold when all survivors who participated took to the theme of “Flower Power�, accessorizing in colourful, beautiful blossoms and drawing jubilant cheers from the crowd.

Despite the muddy and soggy track due to an earlier heavy downpour, the relay was kept going by groups of participants who determinedly continued walking and running with no regards to the conditions. In fact, many perceived the rain as a blessing in disguise as it helped to clear off the persistent haze which was a cause for concern for the organisers who were anxious that it would affect the health and well-being in particular of cancer survivors who were present at the relay.

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VOLUNTEERS

Though there were many unforgettable moments at the Relay for Life, nothing could quite come close to the moment when the Luminaria Ceremony was held. This was when all participants lighted up the Luminaria Bags, filled with sand and tea light candles, to illuminate the many heartfelt messages written for those who have lost their lives to cancer and for those who are still fighting the battle. The bags were then placed around the track and participants walked the track in silence to not only pay tribute to the lives lost, but also to strengthen each other’s will to continue with the pledge to fight cancer together.

Apart from commemorating those who have fallen, the Relay for Life was also an opportunity for many to celebrate life in all its glorious forms and means. As such, young talents and even survivors gamely took to the stage, entertaining all in attendance and at the same time reminding everyone that nothing is more important in the fight against cancer than a positive attitude and mindset. Many survivors also opened up, sharing their stories in the hopes of inspiring more people to stand up to cancer.

The solidarity felt at the Relay once again underlined the fact that nobody should have to face cancer alone and for that MAKNA would like to thank our volunteers and donors who have always stood by us as we continue with our mission to mobile all resources to reduce related pain, morbidity and the suffering that cancer patients undergo regardless of background, race, creed, colour and station.

www.makna.org.my

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VOLUNTEERS

Titian Muhibah Penyambung Kasih 11-13 September, 2015

with JICS and PERKEN

By Latipah Saat’, MAKNA Southern Region Volunteer Leader

Hasrat Kak Norizan atau ibu Jan dan PERKEN Perlis untuk melawat Johor mencetuskan idea buat Kak Latipah dan Johor I Care Society (JICS) menyambut kedatangan mereka untuk bersama-sama membuat satu program meraikan gabungan wira-wira kanser Perlis dan Johor yang sebahagian besarnya adalah penerima bantuan bursary MAKNA.

besar UTHM. Pada pukul 2 petang wira-wira kanser johor telah mulai tiba di hotel. Mereka masuk ke bilik masing- masing yang telah disediakan dan beristirehat.

Jumlah keseluruhan wira-wira adalah 70 orang berumur diantara 6 hingga 65 tahun dengan sebahagiannya adalah pengiring wira-wira dan juga ahli jawatan kuasa menjadikan jumlah peserta seramai 100 orang.

Pengalaman sebagai ketua sukarelawan MAKNA (brown vest) ibu Jan dan Kak Latipah berupaya membuat program gabungan ini dengan jayanya, pada 11 September 2015 kira-kira jam 9 malam wira-wira kanser Perlis bertolak dari Kuala Kangsar dengan menaiki sebuah bas persiaran seramai 40 peserta termasuk ahli jawantan kuasa melalui lebuhraya utara menuju ke selatan.

Pada hari yang sama selepas wira-wira beristirehat dan solat asar, mereka turun ke dewan untuk minum petang berserta dengan sesi suai kenal diantara mereka.

Mereka diberikan ‘goody bags’ berisi tuala muka, ubat gigi dan berus gigi, bedak badan baby, sabun mandi dan sikat rambut yang disumbangkan oleh kementerian kesihatan melalui unit kerja sosial perubatan Hospital Sultanah Nora Ismail (HSNI) Batu Pahat.

Pada 12 September 2015 jam 11 pagi, peserta sampai ke destinasi iaitu rumah homestay kebajikan JICS. Jamuan makan tengahari disediakan oleh warung ‘Pak Joe’ yang bermurah hati untuk menaja wira-wira dan ahli jawantan kuasa program. Semoga ‘Pak Joe’ dipermudahkan rezeki dan maju jaya dalam perniagaan beliau.

Pada malamnya pula,di adakan jamuan makan malam diadakan khas sempena meraikan wira-wira kanser gabungan Johor dan Perlis dimana program ini telah dinamakan oleh ibu Jan sebagai TITIAN MUHIBAH PENYAMBUNG KASIH.

Pada jam 12.30 tengahari, wira-wira dibawa melawat ke persekitaran University Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM). Mereka juga menunaikan solat zohor di masjid 15

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Program ini juga dimeriahkan sama oleh staf MAKNA dari unit sukarelawan. Selain dari itu turut hadir ialah doktor-doktor,kakitangan, staf unit kerja sosial dan ahli sahabat sukarelawan hospital HSNI batu pahat, kelab

VOLUNTEERS

kecergasan jelita dan seramai 40 peserta terdiri dari peminat Tuan Haji Adi Putra yang datang dari Singapura, Muar dan Kuala Lumpur.

Persembahan artis pada malam tersebut adalah Tuan Haji Adi Putra dan Roslan Shah. Wira-wira kelihatan terhibur dengan makanan enak dan sihat yang disediakan dan beberapa mainan dan juga hadiah yang dimenangi membuatkan majlis makan malam begitu riuh. Sekali mereka juga berebut-rebut untuk bergambar bersama artis dan sesama wira-wira Johor dan Perlis sebagai kenangan.

Majlis makan malam berakhir pada pukul 11.30 malam dan mereka diminta berehat secukupnya oleh kerana keesokan pagi mereka diminta bersarapan dan bersedia untuk ‘check-out’.

Pada 13 September 2015 jam 9 pagi wira-wira telah pun berada di dalam bas dibawa menuju ke Nusajaya Johor Bahru. Wira-wira Johor menaiki bas yang disediakan oleh UTHM. Kedua-dua bas diletakkan pelajar sukarelawan terdiri dari mahasiswa dan mahasiswi dari kelab anak jati johor.

Mereka ditugaskan memantau kesihatan wira-wira dan membantu membawa barangan kepunyaan wira-wira.

Pada pukul 11 pagi wira-wira dibawa melawat ke ‘Hello Kitty’ di nusajaya di sini mereka diraikan dengan persembahan dari group kitty and the geng. Semasa lawatan ini wira-wira ditemani oleh staf MAKNA, unit sosial HSNI Batu Pahat dan pelakon popular Tuan Haji Adi Putra. Wira-wira kelihatan gembira dan teruja, lebih-lebih lagi atas tajaan ‘Hello Kitty’ telah membawa mereka ke situ.

Pada pukul 1 tengahari pula, mereka dibawa ke jamuan makan tengahari di restoran ‘Selasih Seri Gelam’ Johor Bahru. Makanan yang disediakan berteraskan kesihatan. Semasa sedang menikmati jamuan mereka dipersembahkankan dengan 7 jenis tarian termasuk zapin yang melambangkan negeri Johor. Persembahan ini diadakan oleh bahagian pelancongan negeri Johor.

Selepas selesai sesi bergambar di hadapan restoran, wira-wira besalam salaman dan berasa sedih untuk pulang ketempat masing-masing. Mereka meluahkan harapan agar ada kesempatan lain untuk bertemu lagi.

Semoga program gabungan yang diadakan ini mencapai matlamat bagi meraikan wira-wira kanser yang terpilih dengan harapan mereka merasai satu pengalaman baru yang menaikan semangat mereka untuk terus berjuang menangani kanser. Mereka akan dapat merasai satu kehidupan baru yang lebih indah selepas kanser. www.makna.org.my

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FEATURE STORY

MOVEMBER

The Ultimate Shave Off Campaign Finale Prostate and testicular cancer awareness campaign by MAKNA and the Rainbow Team finishes with a fun shave off and total donations amounting to RM200,000.

The Ultimate Shave Off, a three-month prostate and testicular cancer awareness and fund-raising campaign, organised by MAKNA (National Cancer Council) together with the Rainbow Team leader, Dato’ Dr Arunan Selvaraj, has come to a resounding end with a grand finale at the Great Eastern Mall, Jalan Ampang.

The campaign has successfully brought the topic of prostate and testicular cancer to a nationwide audience with the airing of the You Gotta Live music video in Golden Screen Cinemas across Malaysia, and public service announcements carried out by MIX FM. To MAKNA, the campaign has been worth every effort not only for the awareness it has generated, but also the funds that have been successfully raised. In the three months from September to November, MAKNA has raised RM180,000 while Rainbow Team leader Dato’ Dr Arunan Selvaraj has been personally responsible for the collection of RM20,000, which brings the total funds to an impressive RM200,000, exceeding the original target of RM130,000.

“It is heartening for us to see the level of support this campaign has received from all levels of society and people from all walks of life right from the start. The collaborative effort that went into the making of the music video, where celebrities, artistes, public and corporate figures, as well as cancer survivors contributed their creativity, time and energy; the participation of members of the public in growing their beards and moustache, in uploading their selfies; and not to mention the various sponsors and partners who had gamely 17

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lent their support to not just make today’s finale but the entire campaign possible – MAKNA would like to thank each and every one of them,” said Farahida Mohd Farid, General Manager of MAKNA. “The fight against cancer can be financially and emotionally draining. Even the smallest contribution can make a big difference to the lives of cancer patients.

The funds collected from this campaign would enable MAKNA to continue providing uninterrupted aid to cancer patients who are in need. In addition, having so many people who care enough and are willing to come forward to support the cancer cause would send a clear message to those who are battling cancer that they are not alone and that there can be life after cancer,” she continued.

The campaign finale kicked off with a convoy of riders from Ducati Club Malaysia riding to the finale venue. This was then followed by the unveiling of the Most Creative Moustache/Beard Registered Walk-in winners and the Selfie Your ‘Stache Challenge winners, who walked away with sponsored prizes that included AirAsia return tickets for 2 to Pattaya and Taiwan, Eastern & Oriental Hotel 3D2N stay, Truefitt & Hill Grooming Hampers valued between RM300 to RM900, Home Fix vouchers worth

FEATURE STORY

RM1000 and specially designed T-shirts from MAKNA, POYO, and Ducati Club Malaysia. The highlight of the finale was The Ultimate Shave Off where celebrities, such as Rod Monteiro (MIX FM RJ), Syah Hairizal Kamalul Arifin (ASTRO AWANI Anchor) and Nik Michael Imran (celebrity chef), among others, had their beard and moustache shaved off by Truefitt & Hill, the campaign’s official shave off partner.

In addition to setting their barbers to task to shave off guests or members of the public who had pledged to grow their moustache or beard in support of prostate and testicular cancer awareness, Truefitt & Hill has also designated a ‘Movember Hour’ where all shaves carried out from 8.00 pm to 9.00 pm from Monday to Friday for the month of November at their Great Eastern Mall, Bangsar Shopping Center and JW Marriott Hotel were donated to the campaign.

There were a total of 48 men who pledged and came forward to have their facial hair shaved off to show their support for men related cancer awareness at the finale.

Dato’ Dr Arunan Selvaraj, who had been instrumental in helping MAKNA organised the campaign, was full of praise for the commitment shown by individuals and corporations in ensuring the campaign’s success.

“It’s no easy feat to commit to growing one’s beard or moustache. Therefore, we are immensely grateful that many have still gone out of their way and faced up to the challenges, to support this campaign. In their own way they have helped to bring attention and encourage open conversation regarding prostate and testicular cancer, which was the main objective of The Ultimate Shave Off.” “Of course, we have to thank all our partners and sponsors, namely Truefitt & Hill, Golden Screen Cinemas Sdn Bhd, MIX FM, Great Eastern Mall and Ducati Club Malaysia. Without their generosity and help, this campaign would not have been such a success,” he added.

MAKNA hopes that despite MOVEMBER – The Ultimate Shave Off having come to a close, awareness and ownership amongst the public in taking better care of their health would continue to grow and result in a proactive approach to healthcare that would hopefully save more lives. www.makna.org.my

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FEATURE STORY

Prostate Cancer

My Experience Surviving Prostate Cancer

By Professor Dr Ahmad Shakri Mat Seman

1. Tell us briefly about yourself,

3. How did you cope with the

I was born in Ketereh, Kelantan on January 1955. I obtained my degree from a local university and pursued my Master and PhD in Belgium and Australia respectively. My wife’s name is Ruhaya and we have six children. I just retired last January.

On the first day after the diagnosis, I was feeling really down. Thankfully, the feeling didn’t last.

It was only the one day. When I woke up the next day, I was in good spirit and was able to think positively.

your background, family, etc.

2. When were you diagnosed

with cancer? What prompted you to visit the doctor?

I was officially diagnosed in June 2013 but the pain started in early 2013. It was the pain that prompted me to visit the doctor.

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diagnosis?

4. Could you tell us a little about your treatment and how you got through it?

I followed the treatment as instructed by the oncologist. I responded positively and I recovered.

FEATURE STORY

5. How was the support from your family members?

Their support throughout my treatment and recovery has been superb.

6. What else did you do to gain

more knowledge besides listening to the doctor’s advice?

I wanted to know more about prostate cancer so I did a bit of reading on the side on my own.

It helped me understand more about the cancer.

7. Do you have a family history of cancer?

Yes, two of my aunties and a cousin were diagnosed with breast cancer. My father had prostate-related issues at the age of 80.

10. What motivated you to fight and move on with your life?

It was just a sense of duty I felt as a human being; I wanted to accomplish that duty and in order to do that, I have to be fully prepared for the day after.

11. What is your advice to the

8. Were you aware of any

public and to those who are fighting cancer? How would you motivate them?

Yes, I was aware of cancer but I took it for granted.

Take it as a challenge and believe that God loves you. You have to believe that “people without cancer may die today, but people with cancer may still live for the next 15 years.”

cancer-related information before your diagnosis?

9. How would you describe your life before and after cancer?

As a Muslim I accept that what has happened to me was the will of God. Due to that, even after my diagnosis, I tried as much to get through my daily life as usual. I tried to spend more quality, joyful time with my family. I also tried to lower the stress levels in my life and make exercising a regular habit. And of course, the most important thing, I pray to God.

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FEATURE STORY

Prostate

and

Testicular C ncer

PROSTATE CANCER

Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among men in many regions of the world, with 899,000 new cases and 258,000 new deaths recorded in 2008.

The burden from the disease is anticipated to increase to 1.7 million new cases and 499,000 deaths by 2030.

(Source: WHO) Prostate cancer ranks number 4 in the 10 most frequent cancers for males in Malaysia, according to the National Cancer Registry 2006 and 2007.

TESTICULAR CANCER Testicular cancer can develop in males of any age, including infants and elderly men.

Almost half of all cases of testicular cancer are in men between the ages of 20 and 34.

Testicular cancer can be successfully treated when detected early. The risk of dying from this cancer is about 1 in 5,000.

(Source: American Cancer Society) MAKNA CASES For the past 5 years, MAKNA has assisted in over 250 cases of prostate and testicular cancer. We get referrals of more than 40 cases per year from across all states. The youngest testicular cancer patient MAKNA has assisted was 1 year old.

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INTERNATIONAL

The world is Prioritizing sustainability and

MAKNA is part of it

By Camilo Cupitre, MAKNA International Division

Between 11 to 15 August, NGOs from around the world met at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City for the Millennium Campus Conference 2015 (MCC15) to discuss the new global sustainable development agenda. Here are the highlights from MAKNA’s participation as one of the invited organisations.

The way to develop the Post-2015 Agenda has been a long one. The process started officially in 2010 and after years of discussions, consultations and tough negotiations, last July representatives from the 193 members of the United Nations finally reached an agreement on what specifically the global sustainable

development agenda was going to be about and it came in the form of the 17th Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The next step after that was the formal approval of the SDGs by the United Nations 70th general assembly at the end of September. In between there was a series of events organised by the UN with the objective of socialising among the diverse stakeholders, that included multilateral organisations, the academic community, corporate sector and of course, NGOs. One of those events was the Millennium Campus Conference 2015 (MCC15), a 5-day conference organised at the UN headquarters in New York City that focused on discussing the new SDGs, attended by more than 500 representatives from 56 countries around the world.

As well explaining the process in order to get involved and collaborate with the 17 global UN agencies on the implementation of projects connected with the SGDs, becoming part of the UN Partnerships network and MAKNA was one of the 200 organisations invited to participate on this event.

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INTERNATIONAL

The MCC15 agenda has the participation of several influential opinion leaders and UN collaborators such as: • Mogens Lykketoft, President Elect of the 70th UN General Assembly.

• Dr Jeffrey Sachs, Director, Earth Institute, Columbia University & Special Advisor to the UN SecretaryGeneral on the Millennium Development Goals.

• Lakshmi Puri, Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations and Deputy Executive Director of UN Women.

• MD. MSc. Vanessa Kerry, Founder & CEO, Seed Global Health.

• Annie Griffiths, Photographer of National Geographic & Executive Director of Ripple Effect.

Attending the MCC 2015 was an opportunity to be introduced to a new universe of people and social organisations from around the world.

At the same time, it was also an opportunity to analyse, compare, learn and share best case practices and knowledge with other social organisations and to understand the way that NGOs are developing their talents and planning their future, and to position the MAKNA brand through the sharing of our successes in the past 20 years and our contributions to Malaysian as well as Vietnamese cancer patients.

Finally, it was also an opportunity to understand the United Nations’ administrative procedures and requirements in order for MAKNA to participate in the different projects and initiatives that its different agencies will be executing over the next 15 years and to project MAKNA as a relevant global contributor in the achievement of the SDGs.

Despite their different approaches, they work together, coordinated by the UN structure and Sustainable Development Goals 2030 to not only make a direct impact on their communities, but also to influence change in public policies and social mindsets that make the world a better, more sustainable place to live.

Closing picture of the conference with the many delegates and actor Terry Crews.

Dr Jeffrey Sachs and Annie Griffiths receiving their volumes of Neoplasia and MAKNA portfolio.

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INTERNATIONAL

Sustainable Development a new age for the world and for Cancer

By Camilo Cupitre, MAKNA International Division

15 years ago, at the beginning of the new millennium, the international community led by the United Nations started an initiative to make the world a more sustainable place to live.

This initiative, known as the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), consisted of eight international development goals established following the Millennium Summit of the United Nations in the year 2000 and the adoption of the United Nations Millennium Declaration.

The goals, designed for a 15-year period and coming to an end in December 2015, included: To eradicate extreme poverty and hunger.

To achieve universal primary education.

To promote gender equality.

To reduce child mortality.

To improve maternal health.

To combat HIV/AIDS, malaria, and other diseases.

7. To ensure environmental sustainability.

8. To develop a global partnership for development.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Across these 15 years MDGs have been a useful channel to increase civil society awareness about the importance and impact of public and private sustainable focus policies, as well as a framework that many governments and international organisation took as reference for their social investment strategies and to make accountability of their social progress.

However MDGs also received criticisms from specialists in diverse related areas mainly because the MDGs, albeit ambitious and possibly revolutionary, were highly exclusive, focusing primarily on poor, ‘developing’ countries.

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INTERNATIONAL

As example MDG Goal 6, ‘Combat HIV/AIDS, Malaria, and other diseases’, targets diseases that plague poor regions and decimate impoverished populations. Malaria and other target diseases have not had a significant impact on the populations of states with middle to high and high income in decades.

The second part of MDGs evaluation is about the results obtained by the different countries in achieving their own targets; some (such as reducing maternal and child mortality) will be missed by miles. But others, such as cutting by half the share of people who live in abject poverty, have been reached. The MDGs themselves do not always deserve the credit for sustainability achievements: the plunge in the global poverty rate has far more to do with growth in China than anything agreed on at the UN. But in other cases, such as boosting access to clean water, the prospect of missing an international target shamed countries into acting better than they might have otherwise.

During 2015 the UN together with the analysis and evaluation of MDGs performance, has started the development of a post-2015 agenda with the objective of capitalizing the lessons learned with MDGs with a new strategy. After several meetings and negotiations at the beginning of last August the 193 delegations from the countries that are members of the UN has come to an agreement around a new list of 17 goals for the next 15 years (up until 2030) called the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

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The SDGs are decidedly more universal, encouraging the world not to eradicate specific diseases found in these poor regions of the globe, but instead to ‘Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at any age’ (SDG 3).

Regarding this Mogens Lykketoft, President Elect of the 70th UN General Assembly stated:

This is about the whole world and a realisation that we have done well in bringing poverty down, but we cannot go the rest of the way to eradicate extreme poverty in the same way. We cannot rely on eradicating poverty by having the normal kind of growth in every country. We have to realise this while meeting the urgent tasks in investing in the battle against environmental change and catastrophe. If we allow the current track to continue the costs of environmental changes will remove people away from where they live. Conflicts will swallow all the resources we should use to make a better world. These are some of the things we need to take care of if we are to create a more stable world and the globe has a very real opportunity to survive as an acceptable place of living for the human race.

INTERNATIONAL

Cancer in the Post-2015 Agenda Cancer’s inclusion into the post-2015 agenda comes in the SDG No 3 “Good Health & Well-Being” through the concept of non-communicable diseases (NCD) – namely diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, chronic respiratory disease, and mental/neurological disorders – when an international group of organisations related to them (including the Union for International Cancer Control or UICC) decided to join efforts under an initiative called the NCD Alliance with the specific objective of ensuring the inclusion of NCDs into the Post-2015 agenda, as explained by José Luis Castro, Chair of the NCD Alliance and Executive Director of The Union (International Union against tuberculosis and lung dicease).

to “ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages”. To measure progress against this goal, there are 9 targets covering a range of global health priorities including maternal and child health, communicable diseases, universal health coverage, and NCDs. Indeed two of the nine health targets are focused on cancer-related issues, signalling a major evolution in global health priorities. Target 3.4 is to “reduce by one third premature mortality from NCDs through prevention and treatment, and promote mental health and wellbeing” and target 3.5 focuses on the “prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including harmful use of tobacco and alcohol”. About this, Laurent Huber, Director of the Framework Convention Alliance (FCA) and member of the NCD Alliance Steering Group, has said:

With the inclusion of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) as one of four means of implementation targets for SDG 3, and tobacco taxation referenced in the AAAA (Addis Ababa Action Agenda on financing for Development), tobacco control is now clearly recognised by the UN as a strategy to address sustainable development and improve health.

In 2009 when the NCD Alliance was founded, one of the four initial goals was to secure the successors to the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Since then, the NCD Alliance has worked tirelessly with many partners and stakeholders to lay the foundations for this historic agreement.

As a set of integrated goals that balances the three dimensions of sustainable development (economic, social and environmental), the SDGs provide all stakeholders with a clear mandate for integration. Cancer response is no exception. Cancer and its major risk factors and consequences are directly linked with many of the other SDGs, including poverty, nutrition, gender equality, education, inequality, energy, urbanisation and climate change, and MAKNA through its aim to mobilise resources in order to provide curative, preventive, research and support services to cancer patients and their families, high-risk groups and the general public, is stepping up to be part of the solution.

Now health is recognised as a precondition for and an outcome of sustainable human development in the 2030 Agenda. As mentioned previously, one of the 17 SDGs focuses on health (SDG 3), pledging governments

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INTERNATIONAL

Good Deeds and Greater Outreach in Vietnam

By Nhan TB Dinh, MAKNA International Division

MAKNA Vietnam, in collaboration with Bright Future Foundation, recently co-organised a training for 28 doctors across 4 districts, first in Hanoi then in other cities in the country. Spanning 8 months, the training covered a range of topics that included cervical cancer clinical practice, cervical cancer detection and diagnosis, breast cancer epidemiology, and breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

The training was in alignment with the scope of Pink October and was amongst a series of community outreach campaigns co-organised by Bright Future Foundation and MAKNA Vietnam. In addition to providing information on cancer, the training also focused on cancer incidences in Vietnam, and the current research and treatment practices, which stayed true to the MAKNA belief that attention should be distributed equally to treatment, research, support group and volunteerism in the fight against cancer.

The training was designed to empower field doctors as well as delegate and decentralise screening capacity from being limited to large public hospitals in Hanoi alone, which has created a reciprocal burden on both the institutes and the patients in Vietnam, a country

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with remarkable population disparity. From this training, participants are expected to be able to use the knowledge obtained to access and handle more patients and the public for pre-emptive screening efforts in Hanoi and other cities in Vietnam.

INTERNATIONAL

Mrs Nguyen Thi Ngu (1st from left), at the age of 35 and a mother of 3, had her first breast and cervical check-up at a health station located close to her home and workplace. After her experience, Mrs Nguyen has encouraged many women in her village, who had earlier refused, to undergo similar check-ups. “The services were good and the doctors enthusiastic as well as accommodating. One need not worry about the procedure. If anything came out of the check-up, prompt specialized care will be given.�

The training series was designed to empower field doctors, delegate and decentralise the screening capacity retrospectively limited to large public hospitals in Hanoi alone, thus caused a reciprocal burden on both the institutes and patients in Vietnam which is a country with remarkable population disparity. The trainees would be expected to carry on the power of knowledge to access and capable of handle more beneficiaries for preemptive screening efforts in Hanoi and other cities in Vietnam.

This underlines the importance of peer encouragement when it comes to raising cancer awareness, especially in developing countries.

Having a testimonial of someone who has been through the experience is just as essential as having the right materials, locations and timing, as most villagers would benefit from greater awareness on cancer and healthcare in general.

People from far-flung areas in Vietnam were able to benefit from improved knowledge of cancer

Field doctors were updated on Breast Cancer Epidemiology, Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Clinical Breast Examination.

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INTERNATIONAL

Testimonies from healthcare providers: “Decentralising cancer screening is an effective way to improve efficiency of treatment and chances of survival for patients.

At the same time, it can ease the burden for a number of designated hospitals in the cities.”

– Dr Nguyen Thi Huong Giang “The training provided a huge benefit and a practical approach, responding to field doctors’ current needs especially in cancer detection.

That’s why we highly valued the practical training aspect. We reckoned that such training should be carried out bi-annually or even quarterly.” – Dr Phan Long Hoa

“The rate of cervical cancer cases was found to be much higher than breast cancer in Vietnam – as high as 60-70% of the total cases. Normally, cervical screening could only be carried out when it is integrated with family planning campaigns. The usual practice therefore fell into cervical pap smear screening while for breast cancer screening, it is normally done using ultrasound. Therefore practitioners of CBEs are limited. This training also highlighted one crucial point – the demand for doctors to attend. For example, in Cau Giay district, there were around 200 practitioners with 40 doctors yet only 10 were sent to attend the training. It’d benefit us if we could have more frequent trainings in the future,” – Dr Nguyen Hai Yen

One for the album: Participants comprising medical practitioners and doctors were full of praise for the training co-organised by MAKNA Vietnam and Bright Future Foundation.

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INTERNATIONAL

MEDIA CORNER

What the media IN VIETNAM says about us… Laughter Yoga: (21/06/2015) http://vov.vn/suc-khoe/yogacuoi-cho-benh-nhan-ungthu-408667.vov

BNC Training: (28/05/2015) http://baophapluat.vn/songkhoe/benh-vien-ung-buou-hungviet-tap-huan-ky-nang-chamsoc-suc-khoe-cong-dong-218862. html

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MEDIA CORNER

“Yoga Cười” để chữa bệnh ung thư

Support of Cancer Treatment without Formulary Drugs (Hỗ trợ trị liệu Ung Thư không dùng thuốc)

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INTERNATIONAL

What medical practitioners SAY about our ProgrammeS...

Dr Trinh Ta K Hospital, Hanoi

“Our patients’ awareness saw a big leap, owing to this free screening programme. One important point to note is that women who live far away from the cities are not exposed to proper cancer education materials.

On average, 1 to 3 cases would be diagnosed with cancer among the 200-400 women who came for screening. We came to know of the MAKNA Mobile Mammogram Unit and must acknowledge that it is an excellent idea for cancer prevention. It is understandable for patients to place their trusts on computerised equipment and system. For the time being, weekend screenings are convenient for women.

We also paid a lot of attention on preparing those who are attending pap smear tests, stressing key points such as ensuring it’s 3-5 days after menstruation and no intercourse for 3 days prior to the test.”

Medical Officer, Hong Nguyen Long Bien Clinic, Hanoi According to Medical Officer Hong Nguyen, there have been a mere 3-4 free screenings similar to what MAKNA is offering since 2008 when she started work at the clinic. Hong is of the opinion that such programmes are in great demand and she believes that this demand is not limited to her area alone. Based on her observation, screening programmes like these combined with the distribution of educational materials do help to encourage people towards understanding their own body and making more health-conscious decisions.

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COVER STORY

World Cancer Day 2016 On 4 February 2016, the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) celebrated World Cancer Day together with its members, partners and supporters around the world.

In the last couple of years, the World Cancer Day campaign saw a breakthrough in recognition and visibility with the levels of public and media interests’ growing exponentially in 2015 and an even bigger, long-term effort in 2016. UICC is the leading international non-governmental organisation that unites the cancer community to reduce the global cancer burden, to promote greater equity and to integrate cancer control into the world health and development agenda.

Urgent actions need to be taken to raise awareness about the disease and to develop practical strategies to address the cancer burden. Global disparities in access to prevention, treatment and palliative care are growing exponentially.

For 2016, it is going to be a three-year campaign for continued impact. Taking place under the tagline ‘We can. I can’. World Cancer Day 2016-2018 will explore how everyone, together or individually, can do their part to reduce the global burden of cancer.

Just as cancer affects everyone in different ways, everyone has the power to take action to reduce the

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impact of the disease on individuals, families and communities.

World Cancer Day is a chance to reflect on what we can do to make a pledge and take action. Whatever we choose to do,’ We can. I can.’ make a difference in the fight against cancer.

The 2016-2018 World Cancer Day campaign explores the 20 actions from the tagline. ‘We can.I can.’ take to save lives, achieve greater equity in cancer care, and make fighting cancer a priority at the highest political levels.

Who are WE? Cancer control organisations. Networks with high-level spheres of influence. Groups of advocates. Healthcare providers. Professional bodies. Employers. Media.

Businesses. Schools Who am I? Individuals. Advocates and agents of change in their own sphere of influence. Patients, their families, friends and carers. Healthcare professionals, team and organisational leaders. Educators.

COVER STORY

10 Actions of

WE CAN

01 Inspire Action, Take Action.

06 Build A Quality Cancer Workforce.

To call all governments to step up their response to cancer by pushing for actions that we know will reduce premature deaths, and improve quality of life and cancer survival rates.

The cancer workforce can be equipped with the skills, knowledge and competencies required to meet the needs of individuals and communities across the cancer continuum.

02 Prevent Cancer.

Work towards equipping individuals and communities with appropriate and adequate knowledge of the links between lifestyle and cancer can empower people to adopt healthy choices.

03 Challenge of Perceptions.

As government, communities, schools, employers and media we can all challenge the perceptions of cancer and dispel damaging myths and misconceptions so that everyone is empowered to access accurate information on cancer and quality cancer prevention, treatment and care.

04

Create Healthy Environments.

Schools and workplace environments can be encouraged to implement measures that will motivate and sustain healthy habits throughout a person’s everyday life.

05 Improve Access to Cancer Care.

We can advocate for improved access to cancer

treatment and services across the care continuum with the rights to benefit from these interventions on equal terms, regardless of geography and without suffering economic hardship as a consequence.

07

Mobilise Our Networks to Drive Progress.

The global cancer community can mobilise their networks to reduce the cancer incidences happening globally and promote better equity.

08 Shape Policy Change.

Effective advocacy for policy change at all levels – can reduce exposure to cancer risk factors and improve access and availability of essential cancer medicines.

Make the Case for 09 Investing in Cancer Control.

Building the economic case for investment in cancer can change mindsets and allow governments to justify placing cancer control at the heart of their national health plans.

10 Work Together for Increased Impact.

Working in partnership around proven solutions for cancer can achieve global impact by strengthening advocacy and building capacity around common goals. www.makna.org.my

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COVER STORY

10 Actions of

I CAN

01 Make Healthy Lifestyle Choices.

06 Love, and Be Loved.

Everyone can make healthy lifestyle choices to reduce their risks of cancer.

Those living with cancer can and should seek assistance from healthcare professionals and cancer support services to adjust to the changes in their level of intimacy with their partners. This can reduce stress and improve their quality of life and that of their spouses.

02

Understand That Early Detection Saves Lives.

Healthcare professionals and individuals can be

informed of the value of early detection and the importance of seeking care to improve cancer survival.

07 Be Myself.

With the right support, people living with cancer can feel like themselves again.

03 Ask for Support People living with cancer and their caregivers can ask for support to help them cope with cancer.

08 Return to Work.

With the right support, people living with cancer can return to work successfully.

04 Support Others.

Giving hope and support to someone living with cancer can make a big difference to their lives.

05

Take Control of My Cancer Journey.

People living with cancer can take control of their cancer journey by being empowered to be active participants in decisions about their care, having their choices respected and their needs met.

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09 Share My Story.

By sharing stories, cancer survivors can give hope and support to others affected by the disease.

10 Speak Out. By being part of the conversation about cancer, individuals can be powerful agents of influence and change for all people affected by cancer.

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Targeted Cancer

Therapy

By Tan Yi Jer and *Dr Oon Chern Ein, Universiti Sains Malaysia

What is Targeted Therapy?

Cancer is a disease which has been in existence since ancient times when patients

were thought to be possessed and condemned to death. It was however

during the 16th century that scientists started to study this disease extensively in search for a cure.

To date, cutting edge scientific advances and increased understanding of cancer propagation have enabled the development of several types of “cures” to treat cancer; which include

surgical therapy, radiotherapy, standard chemotherapy and targeted therapy. Targeted therapy has

emerged as a popular and promising therapy due to its effectiveness and minimal risks.

Cancerous cells are mutated cells that are able to self-sustain and continuously divide; unlike normal cells in which their growth is limited and controlled by the body systems. In scientific terms, cancer cells contain abnormal proteins or altered genes (known as cancer markers) which contributes to the immortality of the cells. These distinguished markers that are absent in normal cells become the targets of specific cancer drugs.

Hence the name targeted therapy itself suggests that the drug for this type of therapy will hit and target on the markers that are only found in cancer cells, while not affecting normal cells. This scenario can be depicted through assuming the body as a nation, with normal cells as “citizens” and cancerous cells as “intruders”. Targeted therapy drugs are just like the security forces that will only eliminate the “intruders”; while keeping the “citizens” safe.

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RESEARCH

Targeted Therapy vs Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are the standard regimes in today’s world against cancer. However, these two therapies brought huge drawbacks that place patients undergoing these treatments on high risks for side effects that may be prolonged or even permanent, for example sterility. Standard chemotherapy and radiotherapy are both able to destroy all cells, regardless of normal cells or cancerous cells.

The common side effect of certain chemotherapy regime includes hair loss as a result of destruction of all actively dividing cells. Comparing to targeted therapy which selectively kills cancerous cells only; it is obvious that this therapy offers a more promising treatment against cancer, causing less toxicity to healthy cells.

Is Targeted Therapy Completely Safe?

Although targeted therapy brings such promising effect towards cancer, unfortunately this method is not limitation-free. Research has shown that patients who have undergone this therapy may also develop cancer cells that are resistant (or in other words, no longer affected) to the administered drugs after a period of time. The cancer cells will eventually find an alternative way to grow and no longer depend on the targeted proteins. Hence drugs targeting these proteins are not effective anymore. The good news is that treatment outcome may improve via treating the patient with a combination of both targeted therapy drugs and standard chemotherapy drugs which may act as a double barrier to sensitize tumours to chemotherapy or to curb the resistance process.

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Another drawback of targeted therapy is that not all types of cancers can be treated using this method. Some cancers can consist of targets that are so complex that the process of developing the specific drug to counter the target is almost impossible. However, with the constant development of technologies and innovation of new approaches, the solution for this problem will eventually surface in the near future.

Just like any other therapies, targeted therapy brings along substantial side effects. Among the most common side effects experienced by treated patients include lethargy, skin problems, high blood pressure, problem with blood clotting and wound healing, and gastrointestinal perforation.

However, research has shown that some patients who showed symptoms of the side effects are able to cope with the treatment better and hence experienced better outcome.

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Is Targeted Therapy for Every Patient?

Not everyone can be treated using targeted therapy. For instance, only patients with tumours consisting of targets suitable for targeted therapy are able to receive the treatment. Besides, targets are essential for the drug to hit upon to be effective. The cancer patient would usually be screened beforehand to identify the presence of targets, otherwise this treatment will not be effective.

Targeted Therapy in Malaysia Targeted therapy is not something uncommon in Malaysia as an array of targeted therapy drug is already in use for cancer therapeutics. Some commercially available targeted therapy drugs are Avastin, Erbitux, Glivec, Herceptin, Irressa, Pazopanib, Sutent and Tarceva. Avastin and Erbitux are often used as the 2nd line therapy towards metastatic colon cancer. Glivec is used to target metastatic gastrointestinal tract cancer. Herceptin is used in combination with chemotherapy for battling metastatic breast cancer which is positive for HER2. Irressa and Tarceva are both used to treat metastatic lung cancer. Pazopanib and Sutent are used as the 1st line therapy for metastatic renal cell cancer, while Rituximab is used to treat lymphoma.

Information of currently available targeted therapy drugs obtained from: Dr Lavannia Rajaratenam Medical Officer, Department of Oncology & Radiotherapy Penang General Hospital *Corresponding author: Dr Oon Chern Ein Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine Universiti Sains Malaysia Minden 11800 Penang Email: chern.oon@usm.my Dr Oon’s research area of interest includes investigating the use of novel therapeutic agents to target tumour angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels in cancer) and overcoming tumour resistance, with emphasis on targeting cancer pathways to modulate the downstream signalling pathways in the cancer cells and tumour microenvironment.

Tan Yi Jer is a MSc student at the Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine, USM.

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P NK OC

RESEARCH

De Tech Cancer: A MAKNA-USM Cancer Awareness Campaign

By Tan Yi Jer and *Dr Oon Chern Ein, Universiti Sains Malaysia

Dr Oon Chern Ein (Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), USM), Pn Azima Hassan (Pusat Sejahtera USM) and Azlina Abdullah or Mama Ina (Volunteer Leader of Northern Region, National Cancer Council Malaysia (MAKNA)) have successfully organised a cancer awareness campaign to reach out to USM students.

This campaign was funded by BJIM USM as part of a two-year project headed by Dr Oon to raise cancer awareness among the public.

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Approximately 275 students have attended the Pink October talk series at INFORMM auditorium from 5pm-7pm. October is the month set internationally to raise awareness and educate the public on breast cancer; at the same time remembering those who bravely fought against and survived this deadly disease.

Short but informative – “De Tech Cancer”

This campaign was aimed at the younger technogeneration where electronic communication devices are incorporated as an inevitable important element of life. This talk was led by MAKNA volunteer, Mama Ina, during which she exposed the students to the many elements in cancer development.

According to Mama Ina, proper usage of electronic devices as well as preventative measures should be taken to reduce the risk of cancer.

CTOBER

RESEARCH

Convenient! But is it safe?

Students and young working adults often lack time and money which led them to choose the easy way out – buying packaged instant food and fast food.

During the talk, Mama Ina guided the students to evaluate the cases based on convenience versus health – is convenience worth the risk?

Unusual experience – It could save your life!

Topics about sexual or reproductive organs and selfinspection are often avoided by the public, let alone university students. The Internet is able to provide a platform for quick information or video streaming; but how often do you get to experience a live demonstration together with your good friends, classmates or even your lecturer? This event provided an unusual experience for the students to observe a live demonstration of breast self-examination – of course using a dummy breast.

Students were educated on the right way to do proper check-ups. Some even had the chance to perform practical examination on the dummy to differentiate normal breasts from diseased ones. It was from this event that one female student who was enlightened by the talk, performed breast self-examination and found a lump where she took the next step to consult Pusat Sejahtera USM – a key step for early prevention that could save her life!

Breast cancer is the most common malignancies among women and even men have a certain risk of developing it.

The talk series was in fact an important step towards a more educated society.

For more info about the authors, please refer to page 38

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RESEARCH

Treating Cancer With Soursop?

By Teoh Hoon Koon, Ph.D. (Molecular Medicine) PPUKM-MAKNA Cancer Centre

Soursop (Annona muricata) is a tropical fruit widely cultivated in the tropics

and subtropics of the world such as the West Indies, North and South America, the lowlands of Africa, the Pacific Islands and Southeast Asia. [1]

The plant produces dark green, bristled and irregularly shaped fruits consisting of 67.5% white edible pulp, 20% peel, 8.5% seeds and 4% soft condensed core by weight [2]. The white edible pulp contains 80-81% water, 24.5% non-reducing sugar, 18% carbohydrate, 3.43% titratable acidity, 1% protein and vitamins B1, B2 and C [3]. In addition to the pulp, the seeds are rich in oil (22.1%) and protein (21.4%) [4]. Due to its sweet nature, the pulp is popularly used to prepare beverage, ice-cream, syrup and candy.

The soursop plant is a rich source of annonaceous acetogenin compounds (AGE) in addition to other chemical compounds such as alkaloids, flavonoids, essential oil and different major minerals such as kalium, calcium, natrium, cuprum, ferum and magnesium [5] . The presence of these essentials nutrients and elements in different parts of the plant, as shown in Figure 1, contributed to the extensive use of soursop in traditional medicine against various human diseases. The pulp is used for arthritic pain, neuralgia,

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rheumatism, fever, diarrhoea, dysentery in addition to being used to increase milk production in women after childbirth [5].

In addition, the seeds, leaves, barks and roots of soursop also demonstrate anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, hypoglycemic, sedative, smooth muscle relaxant, hypotensive, antispasmodic and anthelmintic effects [6].

In Malaysia, mixture prepared from crushed leaves of soursop, custard apple and hibiscus is commonly used as a juice on the head to prevent fainting [7].

Laboratory testing conducted in 1996 showed that active compounds extracted from the seeds of soursop were cytotoxic to a panel of human solid tumour cell lines, with one compound exhibiting selective cytotoxicity to colon adenocarcinoma cells[8]. Similarly, in another study published in 1997, soursop active compounds were reportedly more effective in destroying breast cancer cells in culture than chemotherapy [9]. These findings led to an influx of soursop anti-cancer claims on the Internet.

RESEARCH

Among the claims found on some of the websites:

Soursop can cure 12 different types of cancers including colon, breast, prostate, lung and pancreatic cancers

Soursop is 10,000 times more effective than adriamycin, a commonly used chemotherapeutic drug

Locally, soursop beverage is widely sold in markets with claims of containing phytochemicals that are effective in fighting tumour growth, parasites and worms in addition to reducing blood pressure and even body odour!

(Figure 2).

However, in the years since, investigation of soursop’s efficacy in cancer prevention, published in peer-reviewed journals, while encouraging, were limited to laboratory testing only for example in lung cancer [10], cervical cancer [11] and liver cancer [12] with only a handful that tested the compounds in animal models [13, 14]. So far, none of the extracts or active compounds was ever tested on human. Without proper clinical trials, the efficacy of soursop or extracts from soursop in anticancer therapy remains unproven at this point in time.

Cancer Research UK, for example, do not support the use of soursop to treat cancer due to insufficient evidence and caution against unknown side effects of chemical compounds extracted from soursop [15].

In conclusion soursop, while demonstrating certain health benefits, is not a substitute for mainstream cancer care. Always seek proper medical care when diagnosed with cancer and for patients undergoing treatments, it is highly advisable to consult with their doctors before trying any complementary or alternative therapies to prevent interference with their ongoing treatment.

Figure 1: Annona muricata (A), leaves (B), flower (C) and fruits (D) [5] Rajah 1: Annona muricata (A), daun (B), bunga (C) dan buah (D) [5].

Soursop compounds selectively hunt down and kill cancer cells only, and do not harm healthy cells or cause extreme nausea, weight loss and hair loss

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RESEARCH

Merawat Kanser Dengan Durian Belanda?

Teoh Hoon Koon, Ph.D. (Perubatan Molekul) Pusat Kanser PPUKM-MAKNA

Durian belanda (Annona muricata) adalah buah tropika yang

ditanam secara meluas di kawasan tropika dan subtropika di dunia seperti di Hindia Barat, Amerika Selatan dan Utara, kawasan tanah rendah di Afrika, Kepulauan Pasifik dan Asia Tenggara. [1] Tumbuhan ini menghasilkan buah berwarna hijau gelap, berduri tumpul dengan bentuk tidak sekata. Kalau mengikut beratnya, buah ini terdiri daripada 67.5% pulpa putih yang boleh dimakan, 20% kulit, 8.5% benih dan 4% empulur [2]. Pulpa putih yang boleh dimakan ini mengandungi air sebanyak 80-81%, 24.5% gula bukan pereduksi, 18% karbohidrat, 3.43% tertitrat keasidan, 1% protein dan vitamin B1, B2 dan C [3]. Selain pulpa, biji benihnya kaya dengan minyak (22.1%) dan protein (21.4%) [4]. Oleh sebab rasanya yang manis, pulpa durian belanda sering digunakan dalam minuman, ais krim, sirap dan gula-gula.

Pokok durian belanda adalah sumber yang kaya dengan sebatian acetogenin annonaceous (AGE) serta bahan kimia lain seperti alkaloid, flavonoid, minyak dan pelbagai jenis mineral utama seperti kalium, kalsium, natrium, kuprum, ferum dan magnesium [5].

Kehadiran nutrien dan elemen-elemen penting di bahagian berlainan pada tumbuhan tersebut, seperti yang ditunjukkan dalam Rajah 1, menyumbang kepada penggunaan durian belanda yang meluas dalam bidang perubatan tradisional terhadap pelbagai penyakit manusia. Pulpanya digunakan untuk melegakan sakit artritis, saraf, sakit sendi, demam, cirit-birit, dan disentri 43

NEOPLASIA { ISSUE 02/2015 }

selain digunakan untuk meningkatkan pengeluaran susu di kalangan wanita selepas bersalin [5]. Di samping itu, biji, daun, kulit kayu dan akar durian belanda juga menunjukkan kesan anti-radang, anti-mikrob, hipoglisemik, sedatif, meregangkan otot lembut, hipotensif, kesan antispasmodic dan antelmintik [6] . Di Malaysia, campuran yang diperbuat daripada daun durian belanda, buah nona dan bunga raya yang dihancurkan biasanya digunakan sebagai jus untuk diletakkan di atas kepala bagi mengelakkan seseorang daripada pengsan [7].

Ujian makmal yang dijalankan pada tahun 1996, menunjukkan bahawa sebatian aktif yang diekstrak daripada biji durian belanda adalah sitotoksik kepada panel bahagian sel tumor pepejal manusia, dengan satu sebatian mempamerkan kesitotoksikan terpilih terhadap sel-sel adenokarsinoma kolon [8]. Begitu juga dalam satu lagi kajian yang diterbitkan pada tahun 1997, sebatian aktif durian belanda dilaporkan lebih berkesan dalam memusnahkan sel-sel kanser payudara dalam kultur berbanding kemoterapi [9]. Penemuan ini membawa kepada berita di internet bahawa durian belanda boleh merawat kanser.

RESEARCH

Antara dakwaan yang terdapat di beberapa laman web adalah:

Di negara kita, minuman durian belanda dijual secara meluas di pasaran dengan mendakwa yang minuman tersebut mengandungi fitokimia yang berkesan dalam melawan pertumbuhan tumor, parasit dan cacing di samping mengurangkan tekanan darah dan juga bau badan! (Rajah 2).

Selepas penyelidikan selama bertahun-tahun terhadap keberkesanan durian belanda dalam pencegahan kanser, apa yang disiarkan dalam jurnal ulasan nampak menggalakkan, namun ia hanya terhad kepada ujian makmal sahaja, sebagai contohnya dalam kanser paruparu [10], kanser serviks [11] dan kanser hati [12] dengan hanya segelintir sahaja yang menguji sebatian itu pada model haiwan [13, 14]. Setakat ini, ekstrak atau sebatian aktif tidak pernah diuji ke atas manusia. Tanpa ujian klinikal yang sewajarnya, keberkesanan durian belanda atau ekstrak daripada durian belanda dalam terapi antikanser masih belum terbukti buat masa ini. Penyelidikan Kanser UK, sebagai contoh, tidak menyokong penggunaan durian belanda untuk merawat kanser kerana kekurangan bukti dan mengingatkan tentang kesan-kesan sampingan yang tidak diketahui daripada bahan kimia yang diekstrak daripada durian belanda [15].

Kesimpulannya, walaupun terdapat manfaat kesihatan tertentu yang ditunjukkan, durian belanda bukanlah pengganti untuk rawatan kanser utama. Sentiasa dapatkan rawatan perubatan yang betul apabila disahkan menghidap kanser dan bagi pesakit yang menjalani rawatan, adalah dinasihatkan untuk berunding dengan doktor mereka sebelum mencuba terapi pelengkap atau alternatif untuk mengelakkan gangguan dengan rawatan yang sedang berlangsung.

Durian Belanda boleh menyembuhkan 12 jenis kanser termasuk kanser kolon, payudara, prostat, paru-paru dan pankreas

Durian Belanda adalah 10,000 kali lebih berkesan daripada adriamisin, iaitu ubat kemoterapi yang biasa digunakan

Sebatian Durian Belanda secara selektif mencari dan membunuh sel-sel kanser sahaja, dan tidak mencederakan sel-sel sihat atau menyebabkan loya melampau, kehilangan berat badan dan keguguran rambut www.makna.org.my

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References: [1]

N. Badrie et al. (2010). Soursop (Annona muricata L.): Composition, Nutritional Value, Medicinal Uses, and Toxicology. In: Bioactive Foods in Promoting Health, Elsevier, pp 621-43.

[2]

F. Saanchez-Nieva et al. (1953). University of Puerto Rico Agriculture Experimental Stational Technical Paper 11: 5-19.

[3]

I. A. Onimawo (2002). Plant Foods Hum. Nutr. 57: 165-71.

[4]

J. A. Awan et al. (1980). Plant Foods Hum. Nutr.

30: 163-8.

[5]

S. Z. Moghadamtousi et al. (2015). Int. J. Mol. Sci. 16: 15625-58.

[6]

S. Mishra et al. (2013). Glob. J. Pharm. Res. 2: 1613-8.

[7]

H. Ong et al. (1999). Fitoterapia 70: 10-4.

[8]

M. J. Rieser et al. (1996). J. Nat. Prod. 59: 100-8.

[9]

N. H. Oberlies et al. (1997). J. Med. Chem. 40: 2102-6.

[10] S. Z. Moghadamtousi et al. (2014). BMC Complement. Altern. Med. 14: 299.

[11] J. Paul et al. (2013). Curr. Top. Med. Chem. 13: 1666-73.

[12] F. R. Chang et al. (2003). Planta Med 69: 241-6.

[13] M. P. Torres et al. (2012). Cancer Lett. 323: 29-40.

[14] C. Yang et al. (2015). Carcinogenesis 36: 656-65.

[15] Cancer Research UK. Can graviola (soursop) cure cancer? (2015) [Date Accessed: 16 October 2015]; Available from: cancerresearchuk.org/aboutcancer/cancers-in-general/cancer-questions/cangraviola-cure-cancer.

Figure 2: Soursop beverage widely sold in local markets.

Rajah 2: Minuman durian belanda yang dijual secara meluas di pasar-pasar tempatan.

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LIFE GOES ON

KASIH IBU MEMBAWA KE SYURGA, KASIH AYAH SEPANJANG MASA Perjalanan kami ke perkampungan Jaya Gading, Kuantan telah mempertemukan kami dengan sebuah keluarga yang diuji dengan masalah kesihatan yang menuntut isi rumah ini bertabah dalam mengharunginya.

Dikurniakan dengan tujuh orang cahaya mata, kehidupan pasangan ini pada awalnya melalui banyak kegembiraan. Namun begitu, bermula pada tahun 1999, anak sulong kepada pasangan ini telah disahkan menghidap Osteosarcoma Right Proximal Tibia. Ketika itu, usia anak ini baru sahaja mencecah 17 tahun. Semenjak disahkan menghidap kanser pelbagai rawatan telah diusahakan oleh ibu bapanya demi memastikan anaknya kembali sihat. Namun begitu setelah setahun menanggung penderitaan ini ternyata Tuhan lebih menyayanginya.

Sekali lagi episod baru pada tahun 2011, apabila anak lelakinya Mohamad Hafizol Ariff juga telah disahkan menghidap kanser yang sama sepertimana arwah abangnya alami. Kanser ini telah dikesan pada Februari 2011 dan daripada situ pasangan ini sekali lagi berulang-alik ke hospital untuk menjalani rutin yang sama. Bagi mengelakkan sejarah lama berulang, pasangan ini turut berikhtiar dengan pelbagai rawatan untuk memulihkan anak tersayang. Mac 2013 Pakar Perubatan telah menyarankan agar pesakit menjalani pembedahan imputasi pada bahagian kaki kanannya bagi mengelakkan sel kanser dari terus merebak. Semangat anak muda ini begitu kuat dan kini dengan bertemankan bantuan tongkat beliau mengorak langkah untuk meneruskan kelangsungan hidup.

Kini Mohamad Hafizol masih meneruskan rawatan berkala seperti mana yang telah disarankan oleh

Pegawai Perubatan di Hospital Kuala Lumpur setiap 2 bulan sekali. Beliau kini mampu untuk berdikari sendiri dengan menjadi pembantu jualan makanan kepunyaan bapa saudaranya di Ipoh.

Biar jauh daripada keluarga tersayang demi meneruskan kelangsungan hidup dan dengan niat untuk membantu orang tuanya beliau sanggup merantau untuk mencari rezeki.

Ketabahan hidup pasangan ini tidak hanya terhenti disitu apabila pada Mac 2015 barubaru ini, puterinya pula Nurul Herna Zulaikha yang baru menginjak usia 13 tahun juga telah didiagnos menghidap kanser yang sama. Bertarikh 27 Julai 2015 puterinya ini juga telah menjalani pembedahan imputasi pada kaki kanannya. Kini Nurul Herna sedang menjalani rawatan kimoterapi di Hospital Tuanku Ampuan Afzan, Kuantan dan juga Hospital Kuala Lumpur. Semoga puteri ini juga kuat melawan penyakit yang dihidapinya ini.

Setiap ibu bapa pastinya mengimpikan untuk memiliki anak yang sihat dan sempurna menjalani kehidupan seharian. Walaupun telah mencuba sedaya upaya untuk melengkapkan semua keperluan namun insan-insan yang tabah dan gigih sahaja akan terpilih untuk mengharungi cabaran dan dugaan ini. Didoakan agar permata hati kepada pasangan ini akan terus kuat berjuang untuk meneruskan kehidupan bersama keluarga tersayang.

Suhaila Nik HOME VISIT TEAM

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LIFE GOES ON

Seeing Good Work

By Dina Zaman

No amount of words can describe the work of caregivers, and the team who make up the Home Visit Department of MAKNA, the National Cancer Council of Malaysia.

The two women, Suhaila Nik and Noraini Ab Khalid, and two other colleagues, basically make up the whole department, and each month sees them driving up and down to various states of the Peninsular, flying to Sabah and Sarawak, to gauge the progress of cancer patients sponsored by MAKNA. They spend at least 10 to 12 days out of a month travelling and the next few weeks preparing reports, dealing with banks and office administration, following up with patients and consulting with MAKNA on errant patients.

“We are actually looking for people to join the unit, and we do get many people coming in for interviews. The thing is during interviews, they perform well, but after one or two days with us, and realising the emotional and physical strain they would have to go through, seeing cancer up close, frightens them. This is not a job for weak people,” said Nor. The most common cancers are breast, leukaemia and colon, and the highest rates are in Sabah and Sarawak, she said.

The trip this time was to Terengganu. The number of patients increases each year. There seems to be quite a number of patients suffering from breast, lymphoma, rectal and thyroid cancer. The patients they would meet during this Home Visit ranged from 10 years old to 60.

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What does a Home Visit entail?

A Home Visit is where MAKNA visits and attend to their patients’ financial and healthcare needs. Patients are asked for updates in banking details for example, and whether they have checked to see if the allowance from MAKNA has been credited. MAKNA will also verify which hospitals they were attending, because the allowance budget would be adjusted to meet transportation needs. This time around, many of their sponsored patients were being treated at Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, as it was the only hospital on the East Coast that offered radiotherapy. A single trip from Kuala Terengganu to Kubang Kerian cost RM100.

But more often than not, these visits reveal many surprises. Some of them are heartbreaking: the patient had died for quite some time, and accounts are not attended. Families leave former homes, to forget the illness and death. Sometimes, the team finds out that

MAKNA Home Visit Team at the home of Che Amid Mohd Amin, 49, in Kampung Jenang Marang, who suffers from T-cell lymphoma (mouth and nose) and has since lost his voice.

LIFE GOES ON

a family has been “… quite mischievous”; they ask for financial support when they actually can afford treatment. One family MAKNA visited this time around unwittingly confessed that they were also receiving financial support from another organisation and the state. This particular family had a thriving kerepok lekor business at that too!

It’s easy to dismiss some of these patients as rent seekers. Some of them may seem privileged when the team sees that they live in very comfortable houses, but the truth could be that a moneyed relative has given it to them to stay in for free. Rent in Terengganu is cheap too.

Fighting cancer Sarimah Ismail, 42, has just recently won her battle with rectal cancer. What got her going was an indomitable spirit and determination to heal. “Semangat kena kuat!”

Her two complaints were that she found it a bore not to be able to garden and go about daily life, and that food was bland.

Mohd Badrul Hisyan Ngah, 36, from Kampung Pengadang Baru, was diagnosed with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma in 2013. The cancer is in remission.

The support of families and friends is very important for cancer patients. In the case of some of the patients MAKNA visited, they were abandoned by their own flesh and blood.

“You have to be strong when you visit these patients.

It’s not just about their illness and care, but you get to know about how people treat the unfortunate. The first time I did it, it hurt. But I learned,” Suhaila said.

The Home Visit teams aims for 15 homes a day, but they usually visit 11 at most. Patients are away, visiting friends… or have passed on. Their day begins at 9am,

and the team does its best to be punctual. However, visiting homes entrenched deeply in rural areas that don’t exist on Waze or Google Map can be a challenge.

Suhaila said, “Once, we visited an Orang Asli village.

We had to drive by a road overlooking a cliff and river, and then park to take a boat to the village. Many times we get lost because none of the directions we are given make sense. It’s an adventure, all right.”

In the past two days, they have seen about 15 patients, and in the next few days, there will be more. When they have completed their Terengganu leg of the visit, they will come back to Kuala Lumpur to write their reports and sort out administrative tasks before they head to Johor. The Johor trip sounds taxing and will be, as there has been an increase in patients needing support.

An eye opener I was given the opportunity to go along with MAKNA to observe the Home Visit Team team at work. If there is one thing about journalism, there is always a surprise around the corner, and the writer finds it hard not to be jaded.

Like many media trips, I thought this would not be different. However, perhaps coupled with Terengganu state’s beautiful seas and weather, and seeing how dedicated the team was at serving their community, the cynicism went away fast. It made me think that there was no way that I could muster the team’s energy and dedication.

It is heartening to see Malaysians doing good work, without having to plaster their deeds on social media.

They do it because they want to and with great humour.

The short trip really enlightened the photographer and I. I hope that one day that such trips will have Malaysians following along, to see who real heroes are.

More about the author: Dina Zaman writes for an online news website.

She has recently set up a research outfit with friends, IMAN Research.

www.makna.org.my

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Laugh Together Lah

HUMOUR

www.makna.org.my

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FEEDBACK

Feedback From Donors Original Message

e Original Messag

Subject: Re: Dear Mohd Red zuan Bin Jusoh, Noreen Mundun , cancer patient from Miri, Sarawak, has a special mes sage for you From: “MOHD REDZUAN Jusoh” Date: Fri,August 28,2015 6:22pm To: makna@makna.org.my

card Subject:Birthday ew” Li a re nd “A : From 2015 8:55am 7, ly Ju Tue, Date: my a. makna@makn org.

To: Hello! to say this Dropping a note card is lovely ay hd rt year’s bi le pretty and the detachab od touch. go a is bookmark Thanks!

Selamat menghadapi peperi ksaan adik Norman Mundun,saya doakan moga adik diberi kesihatan , semangat menghadapi peperi ksaan dgn jaya, insyaAllah

Original Message

Subject: Re: Dear Norhas lina Binti Hassan, Noreen Mun dun, cancer patient from Miri, Sarawak, has a special mes sage for you From: “Norhaslina Hassan ” Date: Fri,August 28,2015 7:18pm To: makna@makna.org.my Noreen, I hope you will be very confident to sit for the exam....

Are you a science studen t (taking Chemistry, Physic s & Biologi)?

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NEOPLASIA { ISSUE 03/2015 }

Feedback From Donors

FEEDBACK

Warga MAKNA, Saya terpanggil untuk membuat sedikit sumbangan bulanan kepada MAKNA selepas mendapati anak saudara mendapat kanser ovari 3 tahun yang lalu. Beliau dapat menjalani kehidupan normal selepas menjalani pembedahan. Dalam tempoh tersebut, saya tidak pandai untuk menunjukkan keprihatinan melalui kata-kata kepada pesakit kanser, jadi diharap dengan menyumbang sedikit saya dapat meringankan penderitaan mereka.

Akhir tahun lalu, kami menerima kejutan bahawa kanser telah menyerang paru-parunya dan diikuti otak. Beliau kini mendapat rawatan di IKN Putrajaya selepas mendapat rawatan di hospital swasta sebelumnya. Melihat fizikalnya dan menyedari betapa deritanya dia menjalani rawatan, hati saya luluh. Walaupun anak saudara tersebut sudah menjangkau usia 30-an, tapi saya tidak boleh lupa bahawa dia pernah jadi kanak-kanak sihat kesayangan saya ketika kecil. Sebagai ahli keluarga, saya sangat empati dengan penderitaan pesakit dan ahli keluarga terdekat yang menjaganya.

Saya tidak mahu mereka putus asa dengan apa sahaja ikhtiar di luar sana. Saya sendiri banyak mendapat informasi dan iktibar dengan membaca Neoplasia keluaran MAKNA. Saya juga mengalami perubahan sikap dengan lebih yakin untuk menunjukkan keprihatinan melalui kata-kata dan menyampaikan informasi kepada pesakit. Sehubungan itu, saya mahu pesakit ini juga mendapat Neoplasia dengan tujuan dia mendapat HARAPAN baru untuk terus berjuang sampai ke garisan akhir. Dengan ketidaktentuan kesihatan dan sering mendapat sawan, diharap Neoplasia atau apa-apa sahaja bahan bacaan dari MAKNA dapat memberi sedikit penawar kepada pesakit dan keluarga yang menjaganya.

Bagaimana caranya agar pesakit yang dimaksudkan mendapat bahan bacaan MAKNA. Saya sanggup membayar kosnya. Kami tidak boleh berkongsi bahan bacaan ini kerana saya tinggal di Pahang dan pesakit di Kuala Lumpur. Harap pihak makna dapat merealisasikan impian saya.

Berbanyak terima kasih atas apa jua kerjasama pihak MAKNA. Juga syabas dan jutaan terima kasih atas sumbangan MAKNA memberi “MAKNA� hidup kepada pesakit kanser di luar sana.

MAKNA Donor from Pahang

Upon receiving this email, we have sent reading materials to the donor’s niece. www.makna.org.my

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Feedback From Volunteers

hello Mr Vemanna Greetings How do you do?

I am truly enjoying my bald head as everyone said i look very cute......

I went to the mall n some shopper said i look so cute.n took shots with me n some wanted to take the challenge to go bald n donate their hair too.....and I would like share this joy with you n priya.

Thank you for helping me to put the smile in someone’s face..... and I am smiling too Thank you n God bless Ms Rita David of Kajang’s feedback via e-mail 21 July 2015 on our assistance in helping her achieve her dream of going bald and donating her hair to the Lock of Love in memory of her late mother who passed on due to cancer.

Why MAKNA? To identify the perspective of leadership from MAKNA, as one of the big and established cancer care NGO in Malaysia.

Secondly, being an established organization, hopefully this interview will give us the understanding on issues or complexity encountered by the leader and staff in MAKNA while running the operations.

Thirdly, we find it very interesting that few NGOs also mentioned MAKNA. They are inspired by what MAKNA is doing and some even setting up their own NGO in their region to purposely assist MAKNA in extending the helping hands to those in need.

Sharing by Nor Aini Mohamed a.k.a Ayen, Research Officer (Community Education & Volunteerism) Cancer Resource & Education Center (CaRE), UPM via email dated 17-09-2015 on the reason why they would like to conduct research with MAKNA via interviews of its staff and volunteers

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NEOPLASIA { ISSUE 03/2015 }

MAKNA WOULD LIKE TO SAY A BIG THANK YOU TO ALL OUR S P O N S O R S & PA RT N E R S

www.makna.org.my

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National Cancer Council (MAKNA) BG 03A & 05, Ground Floor, Megan Ambassy, 225 Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur.

Tel: +603-2162 9178 Fax: +603-2162 9203 Email: makna@makna.org.my www.makna.org.my www.facebook.com/maknacancer www.twitter.com/makna_malaysia

Bring a new meaning to life www.makna.org.my/donate

Join us and make a difference www.makna.org.my/get-involved

Shop for a good cause www.makna.org.my/shop

Your contribution can change lives. Support our cause, together we can move mountains.

There is so much we can do to fight cancer. Every step you take brings us all closer to a cancer free future.

Every ringgit raised from this section will literally transform lives. This is where donations “will never go out of fashion.�