Kuching: A total of 45,313 women in Sarawak have undergone Human Papillomavirus (HPV) DNA screening to detect cervical cancer from 2019 to 2024. Minister of Women, Family and Community Development Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri announced that out of this number, 3,037 HPV positive cases were recorded.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the overall number of cervical cancer cases in Malaysia has shown a decline. The National Cancer Report indicates that the incidence of cervical cancer has dropped from third to sixth place among female cancers between 2017 and 2021. Notably, cervical cancer is the only cancer among women that has shown a decline during this period.

In her speech at the National Cervical Cancer Awareness Month 2025 programme, Nancy emphasized that cervical cancer is a preventable disease and highlighted the importance of early detection in saving lives. She announced that the ministry will intensify efforts this year by offering free HPV DNA screening to women aged between 30 and 65 at 50 Nur Sejahtera Clinics across Malaysia.

"This is a great opportunity for all eligible women to take proactive steps in maintaining their health. This small step could save lives," Nancy said. She urged women not to wait for symptoms to appear, underscoring that early detection is key to preventing greater risks in the future.