Homesoy campaign puts support at the heart of breast health

For some, taking that first step towards a health screening can feel daunting. A reassuring word, an offer of a lift, or simply having someone say “I’ll go with you” can make all the difference.

This idea is at the heart of Homesoy’s “Stop That Dot Together” campaign, which returns for its third year with a greater focus on the role families, partners and communities can play in encouraging women to prioritise breast health.

According to the World Health Organization’s Global Cancer Observatory, breast cancer accounts for more than 30% of cancers diagnosed among Malaysian women, with about one in 20 women expected to develop the disease in their lifetime.

Almost half of Malaysian cases are detected at stage 3 or 4, while national health data has also found that many women over 40 have never undergone a mammogram.

“Early detection remains our most effective tool against breast cancer,” said Dr Kiran Kaur Amer Singh, a general surgeon with a special interest in breast surgery at Columbia Asia Hospital Klang.

This year, Homesoy is helping provide 200 complimentary breast screenings through two initiatives. Columbia Asia is sponsoring 100 screening vouchers for mammograms or breast ultrasounds, depending on age and clinical assessment.

Another 100 mammograms will be made available to underserved women through the National Cancer Society Malaysia’s (NCSM) “Adopt-A-Mammogram” programme.

Kiran noted that a mammogram remains the gold standard as it can detect tiny abnormalities that cannot yet be felt. Younger women or those with dense breast tissue may find an ultrasound more useful.

The appropriate screening method depends on factors such as age, breast density and individual risk.

Additionally, Homesoy is contributing RM50,000, split between NCSM and Cancer Research Malaysia, to support screening access and research focused on Malaysian and Asian women.

Meanwhile, women who undergo screening at participating NCSM branches and more than 40 medical centres nationwide will receive Homesoy 3.0 products, with RM100,000 worth allocated for the initiative.

The campaign also uses the “Know Your Lemons” educational kit, which shows 12 possible breast changes – including skin dimpling, nipple changes, thickening and unusual asymmetry – to help women become more familiar with what to look out for.

Homesoy marketing director Chang Wan Ping said “Stop That Dot Together” has evolved over the years from simply raising awareness to encouraging a wider support network around women.

“No woman should have to navigate the journey alone,” she said, stressing that encouragement from family and friends can help turn awareness into action.

For more information on Homesoy’s ‘Stop That Dot Together’ campaign, event locations, and partner screening networks, click here.

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