“Jom Sihat, Sayangi Paru-Paru” program, hosted in collaboration with the National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM) and IJN College, is dedicated to promoting lung health and spreading awareness on the dangers of smoking, vaping, and poor respiratory habits. This impactful event brings together healthcare professionals, educators, and the public to foster knowledge and practices that protect lung health and reduce the prevalence of lung-related diseases. Held at the IJN College Auditorium, the program is set to be a significant step in community health education in Malaysia.
About the Jom Sihat, Sayangi Paru-Paru Program
The “Jom Sihat, Sayangi Paru-Paru” program was designed as a multi-station information session to address different demographics in the community, with information tailored specifically for children, teenagers, parents, schools, college students, and teachers. This format ensures that each group receives relevant and actionable insights about maintaining lung health, the risks associated with smoking and vaping, and how to promote healthy lung practices among friends, family, and students.
Through interactive presentations, resource stations, and activities, attendees learned from healthcare professionals about how smoking and vaping can impact lung function, increase the risk of respiratory disease, and affect overall health. The sessions also provided helpful guidance on smoking cessation strategies and practical tips for preventing exposure to lung irritants, empowering individuals to make informed health choices.
Distinguished Guests and Support for the Program
The “Jom Sihat, Sayangi Paru-Paru” event was honored by the attendance of several distinguished guests from Malaysia’s healthcare sector, demonstrating the program’s significant impact and support. The event’s closing ceremony included remarks from key leaders in healthcare, including:
- YBhg. Dato’ Dr. Muhammad Radzi bin Abu Hasan, Chief Director General of Health, Ministry of Health Malaysia
- Prof. Emerita Dr. Durrishah Idrus, Chief Executive of IJN College
- Associate Prof. Dr. Murallitharan Munisamy, Managing Director of the National Cancer Society Malaysia
- Dr. Noraryanan binti Hassan, Deputy Director (Non-Communicable Diseases), Disease Control Division, Ministry of Health Malaysia
These esteemed guests emphasized the importance of addressing lung health issues proactively, particularly through public education and awareness programs like “Jom Sihat, Sayangi Paru-Paru”. Their presence underscored the shared goal of reducing Malaysia’s rates of smoking and vaping through community engagement and education.
Raising Lung Health Awareness and Combating Smoking
Lung health awareness is critical in Malaysia, as rising rates of smoking and vaping continue to present challenges for public health. Smoking cessation and education on the dangers of vaping are essential components in fighting against preventable respiratory diseases. By focusing on early education for children and teenagers, along with targeted sessions for parents, schools, and educators, the “Jom Sihat, Sayangi Paru-Paru” program equips participants with the knowledge they need to make healthier choices and to educate others in their communities.
Educational initiatives like this program can significantly reduce the prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and other preventable lung diseases caused by smoking, second-hand smoke, and vaping. Both IJN College and the National Cancer Society Malaysia are committed to ongoing efforts in public health, providing continuous resources and programs to help Malaysians take charge of their lung health.
