In a move aligned with Malaysia’s growing commitment to strengthening lung health, MSD and the Lung Cancer Network Malaysia (LCNM) today introduced the country’s first comprehensive Lung Cancer Immunotherapy (IO) Treatment Diary, a patient-focused tool designed to support understanding, communication, and continuity of care for individuals undergoing immunotherapy.
The diary’s launch comes just months after Malaysia spearheaded the World Health Organization (WHO) resolution on “Promoting and Prioritizing an Integrated Lung Health Approach” adopted in May 2025. The resolution calls for member states to intensify efforts in preventing, diagnosing, and treating lung diseases, including lung cancer—one of the country’s most pressing health challenges.
Lung cancer remains the second most common cancer among Malaysian men (13.2 per 100,000) and the fourth among women (5.9 per 100,000). Alarmingly, nearly 95% of cases are diagnosed at advanced stages (III or IV), resulting in poorer outcomes and more complex treatment pathways.
The IO Treatment Diary was developed to address one of the most significant gaps in patient care: limited understanding of diagnosis and treatment. Many lung cancer patients face overwhelming information and insufficient time to process their care options, which can affect adherence and communication with healthcare teams.
“Malaysia’s WHO resolution signals serious commitment to improving lung health outcomes,” said Dr. Abdullahi Sheriff, Managing Director of MSD Singapore, Malaysia and Brunei. “Our work with LCNM reflects that commitment. This diary equips lung cancer patients with the knowledge and tools needed to confidently navigate their immunotherapy journey.”
LCNM President and clinical oncologist Dr. Tho Lye Mun said the diary helps “complete the continuum of lung cancer care” by transforming patients from passive recipients to active participants.
“When patients understand their treatment journey and can communicate effectively with their healthcare team, the outcome can relatively improve,” Dr. Tho noted.
The National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM), which will support distribution, echoed this sentiment.
“Any cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming,” said Kol Bersekutu (PA) Prof Dr Murallitharan Munisamy, Managing Director of NCSM. “This diary educates, empowers, and motivates patients to participate actively in their treatment. NCSM welcomes this initiative and is ready to distribute it within our network.”
Developed collaboratively by MSD and a multidisciplinary panel of lung cancer specialists from LCNM, the diary translates complex medical information into accessible, actionable tools. Features include:
- Weekly symptom-tracking sheets with visual system indicators
- Plain-language educational content explaining cancer treatment and immunotherapy
- Side-effect recognition guides with organ-specific warning signs
- Sections for patient questions ahead of medical appointments
- Contact information pages for healthcare teams
- A self-assessment system to track overall well-being
“Every page serves a purpose,” Dr. Tho said. “Patients can use it not only in hospitals, but also at home—helping them stay connected to their treatment goals between appointments.”
MSD emphasised that the diary is meant to bridge the gap between clinic visits and daily living.
“Healthcare doesn’t stop when the patient leaves the clinic,” said Dr. Sheriff. “This diary helps patients feel more confident and in control during a very difficult time.”
The Lung Cancer IO Treatment Diary will be distributed free of charge at participating hospitals and clinics nationwide. Healthcare professionals may request copies through LCNM. A digital version is also available online HERE.
