Dr Sim has his blood pressure checked. At left is Kuching Hing Ann Association chairman Michael Teo.
KUCHING: Money spent on health screening is worthwhile as prevention is less costly than cure.
Cardiologist Senator Prof Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian, also SUPP president, said health screening should be done annually.
“In Malaysia, heart attack is the number one killer, followed by cancer. When it comes to
cancer, early detection matters. Some cases are considered gone cases because it had already reached terminal stage when detected.
“Health screening helps detect diseases and cancer, so spend your money on it.
“Doing health check every year is akin to sending your car for service on a regular basis. If you fail to do this, you could expect to spend more money fixing the car later,” he said at the Cancer Awareness Day at Bintawa Heng Ann Thian Miau Temple here.
The half-day event was jointly organised by Kuching Hing Ann Association, Borneo Medical Centre, and Lions Club of Kuching North.
Dr Sim said everyone should take good care of themselves, instead of expecting doctors to do it for them.
He noted that Malaysian men typically lived to 76 years old. Those who lived above 76 years should consider it a “bonus”.
“For females, most of them live until 78 years. In the past, the lifespan is shorter – only 60-something. Given the longer life span, it is wise to lead a healthy lifestyle.”
Among Asians, he said the most common health issues were overweight, high blood pressure, and diabetes.
The campaign yesterday offered free health screening, eye check, and hearing test. Those present were given gifts, free vouchers, and had a chance at lucky draws.
Dr Philip Kho, Dr Wong Leh Ming and Dr Yu Kong Leong of Borneo Medical Centre also gave talks on cervical, breast, and liver cancers.
A blood donation drive was also held.