An Associate Professor Shares How the Role of the Pharmacist Has Evolved Over the Years

WORDS LIM TECK CHOON

FEATURED EXPERT
ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR DR WONG PEI SE
School of Pharmacy
International Medical University (IMU)

This year, the theme of the World Pharmacists’ Day is Pharmacy strengthening health systems. In light of this, we’re pleased to have Dr Wong Pei Se joining us to share her thoughts on the role of community pharmacists in our healthcare system.

MALAYSIANS ARE CONSULTING PHARMACISTS MORE THEN EVER

In 2015, the National Survey on the Use of Medicines (NSUM) found that only 5% of the respondents would consult a pharmacist on health problems.

Just 6 years later, in 2021, it was reported that Malaysians on average visited community pharmacies 31 times a year. This is comparable to the average in developed countries such as Australia, the US, and the UK!

This could be spurred by the growing awareness of the role of a pharmacist as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. That was when people began to rely more on their pharmacist for information and guidance on the use of medications, sanitizers, masks, and more to stay safe and healthy during the pandemic.

Even then, many Malaysians may still overlook how the pharmacist behind the counter can be a reliable first stop for medical and general health advice, beyond the scope of the pandemic.

GUIDANCE & EDUCATION ON GENERAL MINOR AILMENTS

“Community pharmacists can help manage minor ailments, give advice and help to educate the public on different aspects of ailments and treatments available,” says Dr Wong Pei Se.

She adds, “Pharmacists are also able to guide customers onto the right medical path – when you are not sure whether you need to see a doctor, or even which doctor you need to see.”

THE BIGGEST ROLE OF A PHARMACIST

No, it’s not to sell medications and over-the-counter products!

The biggest role a pharmacist can play in their community is to support healthy living and self-care in that particular community. They are in an optimal position to help members of the community prevent or reduce their risk of illnesses as well as to stay healthy through basic health advice on exercise regimes, good nutrition, and health supplements.

Dr Wong explains further: “We want to intervene before people get a heart attack, before a stroke, before diabetes leads to kidney problems. These are things that we can manage at the community level so that people don’t end up going to the hospital.”

To that end, many pharmacies provide screening and monitoring services for blood pressure, sugar and cholesterol levels.

Although there are many devices that can be used at home, this service is an alternative for those who are not willing to invest in a device or who are just not comfortable self-administering these tests.

The availability of these services is convenient for people that are unable or unwilling to make a trip to a hospital or clinic.

People also don’t have to delay their monitoring for months as they wait for their follow-up appointments at a clinic or hospital.

CONVENIENCE & ACCESS

Ultimately, people find pharmacies easily accessible and hence very convenient. After all, as Dr Wong shares, there were over 3,000 pharmacies in Malaysia—you can find 1 every 5 to 10 km in urban areas.

Furthermore, there is hardly any need to for registrations or making an appointment in advance.

“The consultation is free when you just need to ask a few questions, or if you are unsure of the medical severity of your condition; these are factors that make a big difference,” says Dr Wong.

As an example, Dr Wong brings up that many people with skin problems such as acne are more likely to visit a pharmacy first. In such a situation, the pharmacist can guide these people through the many options of skincare available and also advise them to visit a doctor if the situation warranted it.

“Pharmacists have become a very accessible primary care service provider,” says Dr Wong. “When clinics are overcrowded and when there is an unexpected burden on the system, pharmacies can help to optimize a healthcare system.”

SO, WHAT’S IN THE FUTURE FOR PHARMACISTS IN MALAYSIA?

In the past few years, digital platforms have been pushed to the fore by the pandemic and pharmacies have not been left out of this technological leap.

“During the lockdowns, pharmacies started doing deliveries and digital health platforms became a very common communication method,” says Dr Wong.

During the pandemic, it was common for long-time customers of a pharmacy to send messages over WhatsApp to ask for advice as well as to place orders products ahead of time for convenient pick-ups or deliveries. This trend continues beyond COVID-19 and has contributed further to the convenience of the consumer.

On a bigger scale, personalized medicine and pharmacogenomics are trends that are moving the industry forward.

Personalized medicine allows for a patient’s treatment to be tailored to their unique genetic makeup, lifestyles and health conditions. Therefore, such treatment is optimized to be most effective and appropriate for them as each individual.

Pharmacogenomics looks into how one’s individual genetics affect the effectiveness of medicine. “It studies how our different genetics will affect how and when you should take a particular medicine, how it is absorbed into your body, how it interacts with your body, the side effects that you may have,” explains Dr Wong.

However, pharmacogenomics is not something that can be done across the board, as pharmacogenomic tests are costly and are available only for certain treatments, for example cancer.

CHALLENGES IN THE WAY INTO THE FUTURE

The perception of certain members of the public can be a significant hurdle that pharmacists will need to overcome.

“The pharmacy is seen as a business. There is a perception that pharmacists only want to sell their products: People feel that the more I talk to you, the more you will want to sell me things,” Dr Wong explains as a reason as to why some people still remain reluctant to engage a pharmacist.

Privacy is also a big issue. Unlike at the clinic, a pharmacy doesn’t have private consultation rooms. This could hinder people from asking more personal issues. “If you have a very private question and you see ten people ahead of you, you probably wouldn’t want to ask it,” muses Dr Wong.

Nonetheless, Dr Wong reiterates that the community pharmacist still holds a unique position of being part of the community. Being privy to certain lifestyles and habits of the neighbourhood, the pharmacist has unique insight on the community as well as the opportunity to build relationships and walk together with their customers not just through sickness, but in health.

IMU Professor Shares How Evolving Role of Pharmacists Can Lead to Better Medicine Safety

WORDS PROFESSOR ONG CHIN ENG

FEATURED EXPERT
PROFESSOR ONG CHIN ENG
Dean of School of Pharmacy
International Medical University (IMU)
UNSAFE MEDICATION PRACTICES AND MEDICATION ERRORS A LEADING CAUSE OF INJURY AND AVOIDABLE HARM 

Globally, the cost associated with medication errors has been estimated at USD42 billion every year.

Furthermore, throughout the world each year, adverse drug events—harm resulting from medication use —cause billions of visits to hospital emergency departments.

LEARNING ABOUT MEDICATION SAFETY CAN REDUCE AND EVEN PREVENT THE RISK OF HARM FOR YOU AND YOUR LOVED ONES

Errors can occur at different stages of the medication use process. These include but not limited to patient receipt of the incorrect prescription (such as receiving the wrong drug or the correct drug but at the wrong dosage), harmful drug-to-drug interactions, errors in the drug preparation or delivery, and inappropriate or overprescribing of certain drug groups such as opioids.

Medication errors can also occur as a result of weak medication systems and/or human factors such as fatigue, poor environmental conditions or staff shortages. These issues can affect prescribing, transcribing, dispensing, administration and monitoring practices, which can then result in severe harm, disability and even death.

ENSURING THE SAFE PRESCRIBING AND DISPENSING OF MEDICATION TO PATIENTS

In conjunction with World Pharmacist Day on 25 September, it is a timely reminder to the pivotal role of this healthcare provider in safeguarding the proper and safe use of medicines.

Pharmacists ensure that patients not only get the correct medication and dosing, but that they have the guidance they need to use the medication safely and effectively.

However, as healthcare providers with expertise and focus on medications, there is an opportunity for the pharmacists to expand their role as patient safety leaders, working with patients and other providers to improve patient care outcomes and prevent medication errors.

While traditionally pharmacists have been perceived as ‘behind the glass’ dispensing medications, in the changing healthcare landscape they are increasingly seen as critical partners in the multi-disciplinary care team addressing complex patient needs.

Particularly in response to the recent COVID-19 pandemic, there are some clear opportunities for hospital and community pharmacists to assume a greater role in pressing patient safety issues, access to medications, medication adherence, readmission reductions, and medication safety.

Pharmacists have a unique expertise and knowledge base that can support improvements in medication error rates and play a critical role in the reporting process, such as providing appropriate feedback to providers. This may result in improved prescribing practices and greater teamwork as well as improving pharmacist confidence and feeling of self-worth in the care team.

ANTIMICROBIAL STEWARDSHIP (AMS) PROGRAMMES

Antimicrobial resistance is a growing public health threat and inappropriate use of antimicrobials (including antibiotics, antivirals, and antifungals), has further aggravated the resistance.

Pharmacists have an important role within AMS programmes, including developing and managing antimicrobial guidelines; reviewing individual patient regimens to optimize therapy; educating healthcare staff on the appropriate use of antimicrobials; and monitoring and auditing outcomes.

Pharmacists are central to the delivery of education on stewardship to healthcare professionals, patients and members of the public. Pharmacists are also key healthcare educators in the community, as they are often the first point of contact for the public and have a responsibility to be a source of information and education on antimicrobial use and resistance.

AMS programmes have been proven effective at improving clinical outcomes, reducing adverse events, and reducing resistance. Given the success of the AMS model, pharmacist role in other medication stewardship programmes may increase.

PHARMACISTS OFFER UNIQUE SKILLSETS TO ADVANCE PAIN AND OPIOID STEWARDSHIP PROGRAMMES

Other therapeutic areas, such as glycaemic control and thrombotics, may also be suitable targets for future programmes.

As evidence continues to demonstrate the success of stewardship programs, medication stewardship could become a central aspect of the pharmacists’ role in ensuring patient safety.

COUNSELING SERVICES AND COMMUNICATION ON POTENTIALLY UNSAFE MEDICATION COMBINATIONS

Increasing medication reconciliation by the community pharmacist following hospital discharge has the potential to reduce adverse events, reduce patient hospital readmissions, and even reduce the risk of death.

PROVISION OF LONG-TERM CARE

From a healthcare policy and care delivery standpoint, there is an ever-increasing focus on providing long-term care as a means of increasing the quality and safety of care. As patient care delivery evolves from episodic to longitudinal, organizations will restructure to care for patients across the continuum.

This evolution will reinforce the need for team-based care to ensure care coordination, patient safety, and optimal patient outcomes. Pharmacists play a great role in supporting a transition to longitudinal patient care and can serve to enhance pharmacist patient safety services.

Central to this longitudinal care is the home medication review (HMR) process. The intent of the HMR is to support the quality use of medicines and assist minimizing adverse drug events by helping patients to better understand and manage their medicines through a medication review conducted by a pharmacist in the home.

An HMR is a collaborative process between the referring doctor (referrer), pharmacist, patient, and where appropriate, a carer.

Currently, there are 3 HMR services provided by Malaysian government hospitals and health clinics, namely neurology/stroke, psychiatry, and geriatrics.

During the HMR interview process, the pharmacist will aim to improve the patient’s understanding of the medicines.

After the initial interview, the pharmacist will produce a HMR report that outlines the findings. This report aims to improve the referrer’s understanding of how the patient is using the medicines and provide recommendations that will assist the referrer and patient in developing a medication management plan.

If clinically indicated, up to two follow-up services can be conducted, with a focus on the resolution of medication-related problems identified at the initial interview.

DIGITAL HEALTH & TELEPHARMACY

Digital health and telepharmacy have gained increasing importance in the delivery of health care, largely due to COVID-19 pandemic.

There are some innovative models of telepharmacy services aimed at optimizing and improving access to pharmacy care, resulting in improved patient safety and outcomes.

Such innovative technology improves access and affordability for consumers, breaks down geographical barriers to accessing pharmacy services and medicines, and empowers pharmacists to manage medication risks for consumers.

The use of digital health records, electronic prescriptions, and real-time prescription monitoring, for example, provides ample opportunities for pharmacists to ensure the safe and quality use of medicines.

THE FUTURE

As the topic of medication error is continually pushed to the forefront of patient safety initiatives, the role of pharmacists will continue to evolve. This will broaden the opportunities pharmacists have to become integral change makers in the reduction of adverse events and improvement of healthcare safety.

Institut Kanser Negara Introduces Use of AI in Lung Screening

WORDS LIM TECK CHOON

In conjunction with the 10th anniversary of Institut Kanser Negara’s (IKN), the institute announces its collaboration with AstraZeneca Malaysia to introduce artificial intelligence (AI) X-ray technology into early lung screening.

This effort is part of Projek Saringan Awal Paru-Paru (SAPU), and IKN is the first government institution in Malaysia to implement this technology.

Vinod Narayanan, Country President of AstraZeneca Malaysia, and Dr Puteri Norliza Megat Ramli, Deputy Director of Institut Kanser Negara. Click on the image for a larger, clearer version.
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THIS MILESTONE
  • Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers in Malaysia.
  • It accounts for about 19 deaths per 100,000 population in the country.
  • 80% of patients are diagnosed at stage IV, when the cancer has spread to other body parts and treatment becomes complex with poorer chances of a good outcome.
  • Hence, early screening crucial to facilitate early diagnosis and treatment for people with lung cancer.
IMPROVING ACCESS OF MALAYSIANS TO AI X-RAY TECHNOLOGY 

The introduction of AI technology in government hospitals and clinics will allow a wider part of the population to benefit from more precise lung screening at lower, affordable costs.

Dr. Mohd Anis Haron @ Harun, the Director of Institut Kanser Negara reiterates that early screening can improve the chances of survival, especially when it comes to lung cancer.

“This consequently can alleviate the high financial cost of cancer on our national healthcare system,” he adds.

What Do You Know about Alzheimer’s Disease? Find Out from a Geriatrician!

WORDS LIM TECK CHOON

FEATURED EXPERT
DR TEH HOON LANG
Consultant Geriatrician
Sunway Medical Centre

21 September is World Alzheimer’s Day. We’re pleased and really appreciative of the fact that, in conjunction with this day, Dr Teh Hoon Lang has graciously shared her insight on Alzheimer’s disease with us.

IS DEMENTIA THE SAME THING AS ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE?

Dr Teh explains that:

  • Dementia is a complex brain function impairment set that interferes with daily life.
  • Alzheimer’s disease is a common type of dementia.
  • It is a progressive brain disorder characterized by the buildup of abnormal proteins in the brain.
  • This buildup will lead to a gradual decline of memory, thinking, and reasoning skills.
  • This condition will get worse over time.
An overview of Alzheimer’s disease. Click on the image to view a larger, clearer version.
  • According to some studies, over 8.5% of Malaysians aged 60 and above have dementia, with a higher prevalence among women.
  • However, note that Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia can also occur to people at a younger age. They should not be considered as merely ‘old people’s disease’.
WE SHOULD BE VIGILANT & KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR EARLY SIGNS

According to Dr Teh, symptoms of dementia can be mild and hence overlooked.

“Many people may assume these symptoms as part of the normal ageing process,” she adds.

COMMON EARLY SIGNS OF DEMENTIA (OF WHICH ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE IS ONE TYPE)
  • Recent memory loss, such as being unable to recall recent events or appointments.
  • Difficulties in planning and carrying out tasks or solving problems such as following a recipe, managing their finances, or managing their own medicines.
  • Difficulty in completing familiar tasks such as cooking, driving or using appliances.
  • Confusion about time and/or place—they may lose track of the date, time, or where they are. They may also get lost in familiar places.
  • Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships. This can manifest as difficulties in understanding maps, following directions, judging distances, determining the size of objects, etc.
  • Problems with languages, such as difficulty finding the right words or using the wrong words during a conversation.
  • Frequently misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps.
  • Decreased or poor judgement. They may make poor decisions, such as giving away large sums of money or insisting on driving when they are no longer fit to drive.
  • Withdrawal from work or social activities that they used to enjoy. They may also become isolated and avoid interacting with others.
  • Changes in mood or personality such as becoming depressed, anxious, or irritable. They may also experience personality changes, such as becoming more passive or withdrawn.
CERTAIN FACTORS CAN INCREASE ONE’S RISK OF DEVELOPING ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE & OTHER FORMS OF DEMENTIA

Dr Teh shares that common risk factors include:

  • Sedentary living—not getting regular physical activity.
  • Smoking and/or excessive alcohol consumption.
  • History of head injuries.
  • Infrequent social contact and isolation. This can lead to depression, a risk factor. Thus, we, especially the elderly, are encouraged to stay socially active no matter our age.
  • Less or low levels of education in early life, as this can affect cognitive reserve—the ability of the brain to maintain our cognitive function and withstand deterioration and damage.
  • Obesity, especially during one’s mid-life.
  • High blood pressure or hypertension.
  • Diabetes, primarily type 2 diabetes.
  • Hearing impairment or individuals with hearing loss. Hearing aids may help reduce this risk.
WHY EARLY DETECTION IS CRUCIAL

Any damage to the brain is irreversible; there is no way to treat or undo the damage.

“It is important to see a doctor for an assessment as soon as possible, as early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent or delay irreversible brain damage,” Dr Teh states.

HOW ABOUT SCREENING FOR ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE?

“According to guidelines, routine cognitive screening isn’t recommended for everyone, it’s only recommended to screen people at risk,” Dr Teh shares.

She adds, “However cognitive screening is not 100% accurate, hence, it’s crucial to educate the public about the early warning signs of dementia.”

Furthermore, some conditions may resemble dementia, such as vitamin B12 deficiency and hypothyroidism, and these can be reversed by early treatment.

INNOVATIONS OF THE PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY IN DEVELOPING A TREATMENT FOR ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE

In other news, the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA) has released a video highlighting the challenges and advances made by the pharmaceutical industry in finding means to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Have a look!

For more information, visit the IFMPA (link opens in a new tab).

A Consultant Urologist Talks about Kidney Stones & How They Affect Children & Younger Adults

WORDS DR GOH ENG HONG

FEATURED EXPERT
DR GOH ENG HONG
Consultant Urologist
Prince Court Medical Centre

Kidney stones are formations that develop in the kidney.

The process of stone formation often begins with a blood flow issue. Such issue causes a small crystal to start to grow and eventually transforms into a stone—a kidney stone.

Kidney stones. Click on the image for a larger, clearer version.

There are typically a few types of kidney stones, with calcium stones being the most prevalent.

NOW, HOW DO THESE STONES FORM IN THE URINARY TRACT?

There are several factors contributing to their formation.

  • Structural abnormalities along the kidney tract.
  • A malfunction in the body, leading to a higher risk of stone formation in the urine.
  • Lifestyle choices.
  • It’s essential to consider the presence of other concurrent medical conditions. For instance, diabetes and cholesterol can contribute to stone formation as well.
KIDNEY STONES ARE INCREASINGLY MORE COMMONLY DIAGNOSED AMONG YOUNGER PEOPLE?

I can’t provide an exact prevalence, but it’s evident that kidney stones are becoming more frequently diagnosed in young people, especially young women.

There are several reasons contributing to this trend.

  • Improved medical care leads to more regular check-ups that detect the presence of kidney stones.
  • Modern lifestyle, characterized by the consumption of fast and convenient foods. Such processed foods tend to be high in salt content, a known risk factor for stone formation. Moreover, sugary beverages, processed drinks, and excessive sugar consumption also contribute to the risk of stone formation.

In the case of young women, several additional factors may play a role.

  • Many of them desire to maintain a lower body weight, which leads them to adopt special diets that may lack proper balance. This imbalanced diet can contribute to stone formation.
  • Their busy lifestyles and work commitments may result in reduced water intake and holding in of urine for extended period of time (finding a restroom can become inconvenient). This inadequate hydration can also lead to stone formation.
OTHER INTERESTING POSSIBLE RISK FACTORS OF KIDNEY STONES AMONG YOUNGER PEOPLE
  • Climate change. Rising temperatures lead to increased dehydration. While outdoor activities and games are encouraged, inadequate water intake during these activities can contribute to stone formation.
  • Antibiotic misuse. The direct role of antibiotics in the formation of kidney stones remain uncertain. They may affect the formation of kidney stones indirectly, probably by causing issues related to nutritional absorption in the gut.
SYMPTOMS OF KIDNEY STONES

Kidney stones can present in various scenarios. For instance, some patients may exhibit symptoms like pain, bleeding, or fever when the stone obstructs the urinary tract, causing an infection.

Alternatively, kidney stones may be detected early in some fortunate cases, while these stones are still small, and hence there are no significant issues.

So, the manifestations of symptoms of kidney stones can vary.

POTENTIAL CONSEQUENCES AND COMPLICATIONS OF UNTREATED KIDNEY STONES

The stone might not cause any significant issues to the person’s quality of life if it is quite small.

However, the kidney stone may block the ureter—the passage in which urine is expelled from the body—creating a ‘traffic jam’ that leads to kidney swelling.

If left untreated, this blockage can lead to pain, infections and even kidney failure.

KIDNEY STONES MAY COME BACK OR RECUR IF ONE’S DIET IS NOT PROPERLY MANAGED

While water intake is often emphasized in relation to kidney stones, it is essential to consider other factors as well, such as salt and sugar intake.

Without proper diet management, there is a high chance of recurrence of 50% in 5 years, with some patients experiencing kidney stone formation again only 5 years after their initial operation.

This is also true for children. There is always a risk of kidney stone recurrence, especially if their diet is not properly managed.

Additionally, if a child has any structural or functional body issues that have not been adequately addressed by the doctor, it can also contribute to recurrent kidney stones.

HENCE, SPECIAL ATTENTION IS NEEDED FOR CHILDREN THAT HAVE EXPERIENCED KIDNEY STONES

They should undergo thorough medical assessments to rule out any body structural defects or functional problems that could lead to stone formation.

Proper management and monitoring are also essential.

TIPS TO REDUCE THE RISK OF KIDNEY STONE FORMATION
  • Adopt a healthy lifestyle. This is crucial. It involves maintaining a balanced diet, controlling one’s body weight, engaging in regular exercise, and managing blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
  • Drink an adequate amount of water daily as it helps in both hydrating the body and flushing out stones.
  • Avoid or limit foods that are high in sugars and salt.

The Haze Is Back, and Here’s How You Can Protect Your Lungs

WORDS LIM TECK CHOON

FEATURED EXPERT
DR KOW KEN SIONG
Respiratory, Internal Medicine, and Interventional Pulmonology Consultant
Sunway Medical Centre
WHAT, THE HAZE IS BACK?
  • The API readings for September 2023 showed alarming levels of fine particulate matter.
  • Experts predicted that the haze would persist until October.
  • Dry and monsoon seasons will further increase the risk of forest fires and haze during this period.
WHY SHOULD YOU BE CONCERNED?

Dr Kow Ken Siong tells us: “Fine particulate matters in the haze less than 2.5 microns in diameter, though often short-term, can leave a lasting impact, especially when inhaled.”

  • Short-term exposure can result in acute bronchitis symptoms like cough, phlegm, chest tightness, breathlessness, and lethargy.
  • Long term or chronic exposure can lead to respiratory diseases like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, and lung cancer.
  • Air pollution, including haze, is linked to premature deaths, infections and various diseases, with chronic respiratory illnesses ranked the third-leading cause of death globally in 2019.
  • In Malaysia, nearly 20% of hospitalizations in government hospitals and over 12% in private hospitals are due to the abovementioned respiratory diseases!

He adds that:

  • Vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions (such as asthma and cardiovascular diseases) face higher risks of worsening pre-existing chronic lung conditions, increased the risk of lung cancer, and frequent bronchitis episodes.
  • Individuals without prior health issues may develop upper respiratory symptoms and become more susceptible to viral infections.
DR KOW’S TIPS TO PROTECT YOURSELF AGAINST THE HAZE
  • Staying indoors as much as possible, especially in areas where the air pollution index is unhealthy.
  • Keep doors and windows closed to prevent indoor air pollution.
  • Use high-quality air purifiers with high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, especially when natural ventilation is limited.
  • Use N95 masks for prolonged outdoor exposure, to filter out potentially harmful fine particulate matter that may be harmful.
  • Stay hydrated throughout the day.
  • Stay informed and seek medical advice. Monitor air quality through official sources, limit outdoor activities during the haze, and seek professional medical advice if experiencing lung or heart symptoms.
  • Self-medication, particularly with inhalers, is discouraged as it may lead to unwanted side effects.

Can the World Truly Be Free of Fear of Cancer in the Next 25 Years? Experts Believe So

WORDS LIM TECK CHOON

On 5 September 2023, Siemens Healthineers hosted Creating a World Without Fear of Cancer: A Critical Dialogue, a panel discussion for local healthcare experts and leaders to share their thoughts on whether the world can indeed be free of fear of cancer within the next 25 years.

This may seem odd at the surface as cancer cases continue to rise—indeed, the number of cases in Malaysia is projected to double by 2040!

However, we are also seeing a rise in technological innovations that allow for more precise and earlier detection of cancer, as well as more effective forms of treatment through customized therapy that capitalizes on recent breakthroughs in genetics, immunotherapy, and more.

Hence, it is possible that, over the next 2 decades, we will see a shift from cancer as a ‘death sentence’ to a manageable long-term or chronic disease with higher survival rates. In other words, a world without fear of cancer.

We managed to get a front row seat at this panel discussion, and we’re pleased to share the highlights with you.

WHO’S AT THE PANEL DISCUSSION?
  • Fabrice Leguet, Managing Director of Siemens Healthineers Southeast Asia
  • YB Dr Kelvin Yii, Special Advisor to the Health Minister
  • Serena Yong, CEO of Regency Specialist Hospital
  • Professor Ricky Sharma, Global Head of Clinical Affairs at Varian
  • Ranjit Kaur, former President and current board member of Reach to Recovery International (RRI)
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE PANEL DISCUSSION
FEATURED EXPERT
YB DR KELVIN YII LEE WUEN
Special Advisor to the Minister of Health
  • “The National Strategic Plan for Cancer Control aims to make cancer prevention, management, and control accessible and affordable through partnerships with stakeholders,” says YB Dr Kelvin Yii. “The goal is to reduce the cancer burden, promote understanding of cancer, encourage prevention and early diagnosis to alleviate patient fears.”
  • The backbone to this effort is the Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) that involve strategic partnerships between government and private hospitals.
  • Current, most of the medical innovations for cancer diagnosis and management are centred around private hospitals, thus putting them out of reach of many Malaysians, especially those in the B40 group.
  • Through PPP, efforts such as government hospital patients getting follow-up treatments at private hospitals can be made possible while still at a reasonable cost partly funded by the Ministry of Health Malaysia.
  • Dr Kelvin admits that funding is a significant challenge at the moment.
FEATURED EXPERT
PROFESSOR RICKY SHARMA
Global Head of Clinical Affairs
Varian Medical Systems
  • “Cancer is a disease that can evolve and mutate to evade treatments,” Professor Ricky Sharma states. “The importance of patient data cannot be understated, as well as patient experiences of treatment from country to country.”
  • He underscores the importance of using patient data to deliver a personalized patient experience. “It has to be from a holistic point of view,” he elaborates. “We need to be asking important questions from the patients’ perspective: ‘Is treatment accessible? Are patients being treated with the respect they deserve? How and where are clinical decisions being made and the treatments being administered?'”
  • In light of the objectives set by the Ministry of Health Malaysia, such as the digitalization of all their healthcare facilities by 2030, Professor Ricky Sharma believes that this would allow for more accessible healthcare to people of all economic status, regardless of location.
  • For example, he cites the use of a virtual cockpit, which allows a healthcare professional to deploy customized treatment plans, analyze and provide results of imaging tests, etc to multiple hospitals without having to physically travel to those places. This would save time and improve productivity and efficiency.
  • Furthermore, digitalization of the medical workplace would allow for more flexible work hours for the staff, which is an effective way to reduce burnout. He and Ranjit Kaur bring out the fact that the medical profession has one of the highest suicide rates in the world, and this move to digitalization would help reduce the prevalence of burnout and mental issues that could help reduce such tragedy.
FEATURED EXPERT
FABRICE LEGUET
Managing Director
Siemens Healthineers Southeast Asia
  • Fabrice Leguet believes the next step in comprehensive cancer care will be to move beyond today’s fragmented cancer care landscape towards a more integrated approach.
  • He cites the shift of cancer screening from tertiary hospitals to general practitioners’ clinic as an example of such an approach. Having screening services available to clinics, especially at more rural areas of Malaysia, would go a long way in increasing the number of cancer cases detected at an early stage and, hence, the chances of better treatment outcomes and fewer deaths.
  • “By partnering with healthcare providers, we accelerate the transfer of knowledge in oncology across clinical, technical and managerial fields and fast-track the adoption of integrated innovative technologies across the continuum of cancer care,” he says.
  • “While we leverage our access to global best practices and the latest technological innovations, we take a ‘fit for purpose’ approach, where solutions are adapted to the local context in close collaboration with our partners in the region,” he adds.
  • He further says, “Every strategic partnership, every technological innovation, and every collaboration with policy makers will bring us one step closer to creating a world without fear of cancer.”
FEATURED EXPERT
SERENA YONG
Chief Executive Officer
Regency Specialist Hospital
  • Serena Yong shares that the private medical healthcare sector welcomes the partnership with the Ministry of Health via PPP programmes.
  • “By integrating insights from different fields, we can achieve more diverse and effective outcomes,” she states.
  • “Patient well-being at the heart of our mission,” she goes on to add, “so this partnership expedites the integration of connected health solutions, ensuring swifter access to care. Moreover, it facilitates the expansion of teleconsultation services and the implementation of predictive analytics on a broader scale, ultimately contributing significantly to our patients’ journey toward improved health outcomes.”
FEATURED EXPERT
RANJIT KAUR
Former President and Current Board Member
Reach to Recovery International (RRI)
  • In spite of technological advances, Ranjit Kaur reiterates the importance of community support and holistic approaches that emphasizes the patient’s emotional well-being alongside their medical treatments.
  • “In a world where technology drives improvement in various aspects of our lives, we must also prioritize empathy, timely care access and comprehensive support systems for patients, not only in Malaysia but worldwide,” she says. “Each patient journey is often daunting and worrisome, but by paying greater attention to these details, we can help individuals look beyond their diagnosis and find confidence in their ability to overcome cancer.”
  • Given that the oncologists in Malaysia are still concentrated in urban areas such as the Klang Valley, Ranjit highlights the efforts of the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development to provide very affordable lodging for families that have to travel to these urban areas for a family member’s cancer treatments. She calls for the Malaysian government to look into providing more similar assistance and services to enable Malaysians from outside of urban areas that are traveling long distances for cancer treatments.
  • She and YB Dr Kelvin Yii agree that the government of Malaysia should prioritize the Ministry of Health in the yearly budget. Ideally, the Ministry of Health should be getting the most, if not the lion’s share of, the annual budget to allow PPP programmes to make healthcare treatments, especially for cancer, accessible to all Malaysians regardless of race, gender, and socioeconomic status.

Pancreatic Cancer 101: How Early Detection Can Make a Crucial Difference

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FEATURED EXPERT
DR TAN CHIH KIANG
Consultant Clinical Oncologist
Thomson Hospital Kota Damansara
PANCREATIC CANCER AT A GLANCE
An overview of pancreatic cancer. Click for a clearer, larger image.
  • “Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer that originates from the pancreas, a vital organ located between the stomach and liver,” Dr Tan Chih Kiang tells us. “It occurs when abnormal cells in the pancreas multiply uncontrollably, forming a tumour.”
  • It’s the 12th most common cancers diagnosed worldwide.
  • It’s one of the deadliest cancers, with a 5-year survival rate of just 5–10%.
  • According to Dr Tan, this low survival rate is mainly the result of many pancreatic cancer cases being detected and diagnosed only when the cancer has reached an advanced stage. “At this stage, treatment options are limited, and surgery is no longer an option,” he says.
YOU ARE MORE LIKELY AT RISK OF PANCREATIC CANCER IF YOU…
  • Are obese. People with body mass index or BMI of 30 and higher face up to 20% increased risk.
  • Smoke. 25% of pancreatic cancer cases involve tobacco smokers.
  • Have diabetes. The link between diabetes and pancreatic cancer is still unclear, however.
  • Have chronic pancreatitis or long-term inflammation of the pancreas. Heavy smoking and drinking of alcohol can lead to chronic pancreatitis.
  • Have a genetic mutation that leaves you more likely to develop this cancer.
  • Are older. Dr Tan shares that the average age of the people diagnosed with this cancer is 70.

Aside for the last 2 risk factors, the other risk factors can be managed through lifestyle modifications—losing weight through healthy, balanced diet and regular physical activity, for example—and good control of existing health conditions. You can consult your doctor for more information.

HOW TO TELL THAT YOU MAY HAVE PANCREATIC CANCER
  • Upper abdominal pain and discomfort. The pain may radiate to the back.
  • Jaundice, which is the yellowing of the skin and the white of the eyes, and/or very itchy skin.
  • Indigestion that does not respond to conventional medications.
  • Fatigue—feeling exhausted all the time.
  • Unexplained weight loss.

Most of these symptoms often go undetected, or are assumed to be trivial, hence the cancer is allowed to progress to an advanced stage unchecked.

Dr Tan advises us to see a doctor should we experience these symptoms. Better safe than sorry, as early detection allows for a higher chance of better treatment outcome!

IFPMA Launches New Video to Share How Innovative Ideas Are Changing Cancer Care for the Better

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#AlwaysInnovating is an initiative by the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers & Associations (IFPMA), which aims to share with the world the expertise, collaboration, and perseverance involved in transforming ideas and innovations into real-world medicines and vaccines.

We’re pleased to share with you the latest film and expert insight from #AlwaysInnovating, in which an animated guide called Sparky will explain how decades of dedicated cancer research and innovation have paved the way for a reimagined approach to cancer care bringing fresh hope to people with cancer as well as their carers.

HERE’S THE VIDEO

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Click here to access the IFPMA webpage to learn the sobering statistics of the cost of cancer of our lives and how, driven by this cost, the pharmaceutical industry is driving innovation across all areas of medicine to delivering new medicines to those in need. Link opens in a new tab.

How Robotics Can Help a Stroke Survivor’s Brain to Relearn How to Walk at a Faster Rate

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FEATURED EXPERT
DR KOK CHIN YONG
Consultant Neurologist and Internal Medicine Physician
Sunway Medical Centre Velocity
FIRST, LET’S TAKE A LOOK AT STROKE

Stroke is a medical emergency caused by the disruption of blood flow to your brain.

Without enough oxygen, your brain will stop working properly. This is why stroke is often considered the brain’s version of a heart attack.

 

Ischaemic stroke

This occurs when there is blood flow disruption to the brain. This can occur when the blood vessels in your brain are blocked by blood clots or other substances.

This is the most common type of stroke and is often linked to poorly controlled type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and/or high blood cholesterol levels.

Haemorrhagic stroke

This type of stroke occurs when there is internal bleeding in the brain. Accumulated blood in certain areas of the brain can exert pressure to brain tissues in these areas and damage these tissues.

While not as common as ischaemic stroke, this type of stroke is especially dangerous because the affected person’s symptoms can get worse very quickly and urgent medical attention is needed to prevent permanent brain damage and even death.

MOST STROKE SURVIVORS EXPERIENCE GAIT DISABILITY

Stroke is one of the main causes of disability.

2005 statistics from the American Heart Association revealed that more than 80% of stroke survivors suffer from gait disability—the loss of mobility due to impaired ability to walk normally.

Gait disability can affect the survivor’s quality of life.

However, there are also other repercussions of this disability on the person: the person’s confidence and sense of independence can be compromised.

Furthermore, gait disability is linked to increased risks of cardiovascular diseases and death in people approaching 80.

Because of this, gait therapy is an important aspect of rehabilitation for a stroke survivor.

ALL IS NOT LOST, AS THE BRAIN HAS A CHANCE TO ADAPT & RECOVER

The brain is an amazing organ. The network of nerves and other tissues involved in brain function can adapt to changes by reorganizing themselves, or ‘rewire’ in response to these changes.

“This can happen after a stroke,” Dr Kok explains, “as the brain begins to compensate for the damage caused by the stroke.”

This process, called brain neuroplasticity, can involve the formation of new connections between remaining healthy nerves and ‘recruiting’ other parts of the brain to take over the functions that were handled by the now-damaged part of the brain.

Much research is being done on the neuroplasticity of the brain to explore possible ways to improve the rehabilitation process of people that had a stroke or other brain injuries that affect their normal day-to-day function.

Currently, research data increasingly suggests that techniques that can stimulate the part of the brain affected by stroke can help improve the rehabilitation of the lost function linked to that part of the brain.

HENCE, GAIT THERAPY IS AN ESSENTIAL COMPONENT OF A STROKE SURVIVOR’S REHABILITATION

Dr Kok Chin Yong mentions that the restoration of a stroke survivor’s ability to walk can be a complex process.

The stroke survivor’s inability to walk normally is usually due to the stroke disrupting the function of the nerve pathways in the region of the brain that plans and controls movement called the motor cortex.

Furthermore, the stroke survivor also often suffers from other debilitations that make it harder for them to walk, such as changes in their muscle tone and strength as well as impaired heart function.

Additionally, the more gait therapy is delayed, the harder it is to achieve a good outcome because the organs involved in walking will further weaken and waste away due to lack of use.

Hence, gait therapy should be prioritized as soon as it is feasible to do so.

ROBOTICS-ASSISTED GAIT THERAPY CAN BENEFIT STROKE SURVIVORS CONSIDERABLY
If you have not read Dr Foong Chee Chong’s explanation of what robotic-assisted gait therapy is, you can do so by clicking here. Have a read, and then hit the back button to come back here and continue reading—it will help you better understand the rest of this article!

Dr Kok explains that the first line of rehabilitation is conventional physiotherapy.

“During this stage, we will assess the patient’s suitability for robotics-assisted gait therapy,” he explains, adding that the criteria for suitability are similar to those explained by his colleague Dr Foong is the above-linked article.

“The main benefit of the use of robotics is that many patients can regain their normal physiological walking at a faster rate than conventional physiotherapy,” he shares.

He elaborates that this is due to the robotic exoskeleton stimulating the neuroplasticity of the patient’s brain, helping it to relearn how to order and control the movement of the patient’s lower limbs at a much faster rate.

He reiterates that such outcome is more likely achieved when the robotics-assisted gait therapy is initiated as early as it is feasible to do so.

Hence, he encourages stroke survivors to consult their doctors further on whether such a therapy is suitable for them.

THIS IS THE SECOND PART OF THE SERIES LEARNING TO WALK AGAIN

Below are the articles in this series:

  1. A Rehab Specialist Explains How a Robot Can Help You to Learn Safely & Successfully to Walk Again
  2. How Robotics Can Help a Stroke Survivor’s Brain to Relearn How to Walk at a Faster Rate (you’re reading this article now)

References:

  1. Duncan, P. W., Zorowitz, R., Bates, B., Choi, J. Y., Glasberg, J. J., Graham, G. D., Katz, R. C., Lamberty, K., & Reker, D. (2005). Management of adult stroke rehabilitation care: A clinical practice guideline. Stroke, 36(9), e100–e143. https://doi.org/10.1161/01.STR.0000180861.54180.FF
  2. Newman, A. B., Simonsick, E. M., Naydeck, B. L., Boudreau, R. M., Kritchevsky, S. B., Nevitt, M. C., Pahor, M., Satterfield, S., Brach, J. S., Studenski, S. A., & Harris, T. B. (2006). Association of long-distance corridor walk performance with mortality, cardiovascular disease, mobility limitation, and disability. JAMA, 295(17), 2018–2026. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.295.17.2018
  3. Su, F., & Xu, W. (2020). Enhancing brain plasticity to promote stroke recovery. Frontiers in neurology, 11, 554089. https://doi.org/10.3389/fneur.2020.554089
  4. Selves, C., Stoquart, G., & Lejeune, T. (2020). Gait rehabilitation after stroke: review of the evidence of predictors, clinical outcomes and timing for interventions. Acta neurologica Belgica, 120(4), 783–790. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13760-020-01320-7