Roche Diagnostics Thailand Co., Ltd has launched the inaugural National Women’s Check-up Week (NWCW) in Thailand to empower women to take action and control their own health.
Themed #MakeTheMostImportantDate, Roche Thailand has partnered with the Thai Gynecologic Cancer Society (TGCS), Thai Cancer Society (TCS), L’Oreal Thailand Co., Ltd, Better Way (Thailand) Co., Ltd (Mistine) and Newcity (Bangkok) Public Company Limited to launch the campaign in conjunction with Mother’s Day from 12-19 August 2024 at over 60 hospitals nationwide.
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, yet it is the 2nd most frequent cancer among women in Thailand and the 2nd most frequent cancer among women between 15 and 44 years of age.
The NWCW campaign was launched following data from a new Asia Pacific wide survey conducted by Roche, which revealed that women are de-prioritizing their health, while fundamental gaps around cervical cancer continue to persist. The survey which explored awareness and attitudes of women’s health with almost 3,000 women in the Asia Pacific region, exposed key barriers holding women back.
Fear: More than one third of women in Asia Pacific have little to no knowledge of women’s health tests and screenings, including cervical cancer diagnostic methods.1 Women voiced concerns of feeling anxious before a cervical cancer check-up due to perceived pain and discomfort (17%), fear over the results (17%) or feeling embarrassed, as the key reasons for not screening. In Thailand, almost 10 million women believing a cervical screening is embarrassing or shameful, while 1 in 4 fear the pain of a screening and 14% of respondents are embarrassed to do so.1 Waiting for symptoms to show can be fatally too late for women.
Gaps in awareness and support – More than half of women (66%) in Asia Pacific have low levels of knowledge about diagnostics tests resulting in low cervical screening uptake. In Thailand, 5 million Thai women do not acknowledge the risks of cervical cancer,1 and more than half (66%) have low levels of knowledge about diagnostics tests resulting in screening uptake.
Women’s health undervalued: An overwhelming 71% of women feel undervalued and believe limited attention is given to female diseases. Nearly 70% of Thai women feel undervalued by their own healthcare systems – one of the highest levels in the APAC region. 34% of women in Thailand have no intention of ever getting a cervical cancer screening done.
Women are time-poor: Almost half of women in Asia Pacific put the needs of their family before their own, often delaying or even stopping medical treatment as a result.
Associate Professor Arb-aroon Lertkhachonsuk, M.D. Vice President of the Thai Gynecologic Cancer Society (TGCS) said, “Cervical cancer can be prevented through early detection and effective treatment. Yet, it remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in Thailand. More education is needed to raise awareness on the importance of early screening and diagnosis.”
“The Thai Gynecologic Cancer Society is proud to partner Roche in this meaningful endeavour to empower women to take care of their own health. The campaign aligns with TGCS’s commitment in advancing the health of Thai women affected by genital cancers,” she added.
Ms. Sirintip Kudtiyakarn, President of TCS, said, “This new survey reinforces an urgent need to reduce barriers and intensify efforts to ensure women feel supported when it comes to their health. Improving access to information on where and how to get tested for diseases that impact women is a critical step to empower women when it comes to their health. Early screenings for cervical cancers for example, are the first and most important step to saving lives.”
“At Roche Diagnostics, we understand the unique challenges that women face when it comes to their health. The Thailand’s Women’s Check-up Week is not just a campaign; it’s a movement to promote awareness, education, testing and support for women in Thailand, celebrating the resilience and strength of women and acknowledging the need for them to put their health first, even though they have others to look after or support,” Mr. Mihai Irimescu, General Manager of Roche Diagnostics Thailand added.
“We are delighted to be partnering with Roche Diagnostics on Thailand Women’s Check-up Week to encourage and drive more women in Thailand to seek out information on women’s health and get tested,” added Ms. Sirintip Kudtiyakarn, President, TCS.
Key features of the campaign across Thailand will include a partnership between Roche Diagnostics Thailand, the Thai Gynecologic Cancer Society (TGCS), and the Thai Cancer Society (TCS), along with local businesses such as L’Oréal Thailand, Cherilon, and Mistine. This collaboration aims to promote women’s health and well-being. Thai women who undergo cervical cancer screening at any of over 60 participating hospitals nationwide will receive a complimentary product from L’Oréal, Cherilon, or Mistine.
By encouraging conversations on the importance of cervical testing, it is intended that stigma, barriers, and feelings of shame can be significantly reduced. The campaign aims to inspire women and amplify the importance of fostering a culture of selfcare, where women taking care of their health is celebrated and encouraged. Find out how you can join in at www.tgcs.or.th (NNT)
