By Zakwan Khidzir
When was the last time you thought about your lungs? For many Malaysians, the answer might be “not recently enough”. This reality inspired the “Live, Laugh, Lungs” event, organised by Kenvue Malaysia in collaboration with the National Cancer Society of Malaysia (NCSM) and Watsons Malaysia, with support from the Ministry of Health.
Beyond offering free lung health screenings and smoking cessation services, the September gathering created something often missing from health conversations – a space where families could engage with these critical topics together.
The heart of the event was an honest conversation between three people who see lung health challenges from very different angles: Dr Vignesvari Subramaniam, Deputy Medical Director of NCSM, who witnesses the medical reality daily; Nur Malisa, a Watson’s pharmacist who helps people navigate their quitting journey; and Alex Khoo, whose personal struggle with smoking gives him unique insight into what it really takes to break free.
Their discussion revealed three crucial insights that could change how we approach lung health in Malaysia: understanding the barriers that keep people from getting help, recognising the tools that actually work for quitting smoking, and appreciating why no one should face this challenge alone.
Systemic challenges to lung health in Malaysia
The “Live, Laugh, Lungs” panel discussion revealed significant systemic hurdles in Malaysia’s fight against lung cancer. Dr Vignesvari Subramaniam (Dr Vicky) of the National Cancer Society of Malaysia (NCSM) highlighted the alarming rise in lung cancer cases, noting that it is now the second most common cancer in Malaysian males and the third most common in females. A major problem is the rate of late-stage diagnoses, with a staggering 95.4% of cases detected at stages 3 and 4. At this point, the cancer has spread, and curative surgery is no longer an option.
Another key issue is the lack of a clear, nationwide screening programme. Unlike breast cancer, which has well-defined guidelines for mammograms, there are “no hard and fast rules” for lung cancer screening.
This makes it difficult for individuals at high risk, including active, passive, and even third-hand smokers, to know when and how to get checked. Third-hand smoke, which is the toxic residue left on surfaces like fabrics and walls, is a growing concern, especially for children who are exposed to these environments daily.
The social stigma surrounding lung cancer also presents a significant barrier. Many people believe it only affects smokers, which can deter individuals from seeking a diagnosis because they don’t want to be associated with that stigma.
The critical role of Nicotine Replacement Therapies (NRTs)
The panel emphasised that while quitting smoking is difficult, effective tools are available to help. Watson’s pharmacist Nur Malisa noted that nicotine replacement therapies, or NRTs, are easily accessible over-the-counter at pharmacies. These products, which come in various forms like patches, lozenges, gums, and mouth sprays, are proven to be effective in managing cravings and withdrawal symptoms. According to Malisa, using NRTs can double a person’s chances of successfully quitting compared to going cold turkey.
Alex Khoo, an ex-smoker, shared his personal experience, noting that previous attempts to quit were unsuccessful because he wasn’t given the right guidance and there weren’t many anti-smoking aids available. It was only after a doctor recommended, he try NRTs that he found the confidence to start his successful quitting journey.
The power of a supportive environment
Beyond medical interventions, the panellists stressed the importance of a strong support system for smokers. Malisa highlighted that quitting is not just about physical addiction, but it also involves addressing the emotional and psychological aspects of the habit, and that pharmacists can provide counselling and personalised support to help people stay committed. She also reminded the audience that quitting is a gradual process with ups and downs, and that every small step counts.
Alex’s story powerfully illustrates this point. He was motivated to quit after a family health scare, and his journey was successful largely because he had a supportive network of family and friends. He said it’s really hard for the personnel to actually overcome this matter alone and that telling a smoker “you’re not in this road alone” can make them feel better and more committed.
Alex also shared a touching anecdote about his wife, who helped him through his withdrawal symptoms by jokingly reminding him to take his nicotine replacement, which he was very thankful for. His message to other smokers is simple yet powerful: “If I can do it, so can you as well.”
