HCTM and UKM Faculty of Medicine Strengthen Head and Neck Cancer Care with Launch of Specialist Team
Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz (HCTM) and the Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), have strengthened their position as a leading cancer referral centre with the launch of the UKM Head & Neck Oncosurgery and Reconstructive Team, announced in conjunction with the World Head and Neck Cancer Day 2026 celebration. The event was officiated by HCTM Director, Dato’ Dr. Azmi Baharudin.
Speaking at the event, Dato’ Dr. Azmi described the establishment of the multidisciplinary team as a strategic milestone in advancing head and neck cancer care at HCTM. Bringing together expertise in head and neck oncologic surgery and reconstructive surgery, the team is dedicated to delivering comprehensive treatment that not only removes cancer but also restores essential functions such as speech, swallowing, and breathing, ultimately improving patients’ quality of life.
According to GLOBOCAN 2025, an estimated 900,000 new cases of head and neck cancer are diagnosed worldwide each year, resulting in approximately 424,000 deaths. In Malaysia, nasopharyngeal cancer remains the fourth most common cancer among men. However, many patients continue to seek treatment only after the disease has reached an advanced stage, underscoring the importance of greater public awareness and early detection.
The celebration also featured an inspiring patient sharing session, where three head and neck cancer survivors recounted their treatment journeys and surgical experiences at HCTM. Their personal stories highlighted the physical and emotional challenges of cancer treatment while reinforcing the importance of early diagnosis, timely intervention, and continuous support throughout the recovery process.
The newly established UKM Head & Neck Oncosurgery and Reconstructive Team is expected to further enhance HCTM’s capabilities in managing complex head and neck cancer cases through multidisciplinary collaboration, research, and innovation. More importantly, it will expand access to high-quality, comprehensive surgical care, ensuring better outcomes and an improved quality of life for patients.
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