Paroi: The relatively low level of health literacy among some Malaysians is one of the key reasons they avoid regular health screenings, including for non-communicable diseases (NCDs), cancer, and mental health issues, said Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad. He stated that most people only seek treatment when the disease has been identified or is at a more serious stage, rather than going for an early check-up. This highlights the importance of public awareness regarding health maintenance and early screenings.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dzulkefly emphasized that the Ministry of Health (MOH), under the National Health Screening Initiative (NHSI), is focusing on promoting screenings not only for NCDs, but also for cancer and mental health. His remarks came during the opening of the Paroi constituency's Healthy Mind Carnival, Prosperous Community event. Negeri Sembilan Health Director Dr Zuraida Mohamed was also present at the event.

Dzulkefly referred to the latest National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS), which reveals concerning statistics: one in three adult Malaysians suffers from high blood pressure, one in three has high cholesterol, and one in six suffers from diabetes, with 50 percent facing obesity. He expressed his hope for increased awareness about the importance of health screenings and mentioned initiatives like Peka B40, Komuniti Sihat Pembina Negara (KOSPEN), and services at District Health Offices as part of these efforts.

Meanwhile, Dzulkefly noted that COVID-19 cases in the country are under control and below the national alert level, with an average of 600 cases per week. The Health Ministry will continue to monitor the situation. When questioned about the necessity for Malaysians to receive an additional dose of the COVID-19 vaccine due to rising cases in a neighboring country, he stated there was no need to make it mandatory at this time, but advised the public to always take preventive measures.