Abstract
Cancer incidence in women has been slightly higher than men in Malaysia, related somewhat to the lifestyles and socioeconomic development of the country. It is one of the debilitating health problems affecting women. Of the 10 most common cancers affecting women of Malaysia, breast cancer is the biggest threat, followed by colorectal and cervical cancer according to the latest available national report in 2006. Malaysia offers a variety of treatment centers and choice of treatments; some are guided by the availability of national guidelines, such as that for breast and cervical cancers. Research has actively been conducted to find out the best and future approach on screening, diagnosis and treatment for cancers affecting women. This is made possible with the government taking the lead and the important works which are highly supported by the relevant non-governmental bodies and the public. Improvement is still needed for increasing coverage of screening and public awareness on cancer prevention.
