Top 10 Killer Diseases in Malaysia
Malaysia is facing more health challenges these days, with both non-communicable and infectious diseases causing a high number of deaths. From heart disease and stroke to diabetes and cancer, these serious conditions remain major health concerns for many Malaysians. By understanding the top killer diseases in the country, we can all take steps to prevent them, seek early treatment, and live healthier lives. Here’s a look at the top 10 most deadly diseases in Malaysia today.
1. Coronary Heart Disease the top killer in Malaysia
According to the WHO (World Health Organisation), the top killer in Malaysia in the year 2014 was coronary heart disease which constitutes 29,363 deaths that year. The same disease was the top killer only 4 years earlier that took 22,701 deaths back in 2010. In 2015, Coronary heart diseases caused 23.10% of the total fatalities recorded that encompasses the likes of heart attacks and other coronary problems. This trend has not reduced and more people have succumbed to this fatality ever since.
2. Stroke second highest killer
This disease which is resulted from the loss of blood channelled to the brain is the second top killer which caused the deaths of 11,943 Malaysians in 2010. Meanwhile, the number has increased to 15,497 in 2014 which is extremely alarming. Where this is concerned, stroke continues to be one of the biggest worries as most victims were not aware when it attacked which is why it is often called the silent killer.
3. Influenza and Pneumonia
Collectively, influenza and pneumonia sit third in the top 10 list that carried 9,417 deaths among Malaysians in 2010. In 2014, this number has ballooned to 11,773. This is very dangerous because many people assume flu as a common problem, and they are not aware that it is the third highest cause of death in Malaysia.
4. Lung diseases
Infection of the lungs is the fourth most fatal disease in Malaysia. This is a serious health problem as they are often exposed to many different types of flu viruses in the typical tropical weather. Lung disease is different from lung cancer where this problem involves inflammation of the lungs that caused death or other complications. Back in 2010, lung diseases were the eighth highest killer with a fatality of 2,934 but it has more than 200% increased by 2014 constituting 6,797 deaths in Malaysia.
5. Road Traffic Accidents
Although not a disease per se, road accidents contribute to 5.36% of the total deaths in Malaysia and is the fifth-highest cause of death.
6. Lung Cancer
Lung cancer was the sixth top killer in Malaysia. It reported 3,309 deaths that year, making it the highest among all other types of cancer-related deaths like Colon-Rectum, stomach, and breast cancer respectively. Lung cancer is commonly related to lifestyle habits and is usually associated with smokers and those who inhale dangerous gas like carbon monoxide too frequently. As such, it is very prevalent with people in urban cities and towns as well as those who are working in high industrial areas like manufacturing plants and factories.
7. Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes is one of the most feared words in Malaysia. Commonly known as ‘kencing manis’, it is the seventh top killer in Malaysia with total deaths amounting to 3,205 in 2010. Some 3 years later, it has moved up to the sixth spot with 4,760 deaths reported. This simply means that Malaysians are consuming more sugar than ever, and more are succumbing to this disease. Even with the increased price of sugar in Malaysia, preparation of food using this ingredient has not reduced significantly.
8. Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is just one of the many cancers killing Malaysians each year. Most prominent among women, this is one disease which has become more prevalent than ever in recent years. As the seventh top killer disease among Malaysians, it took 2,535 lives in 2014. It has been found breast cancer is one of the most randomly found diseases. Reports have shown that each year, about 5,000 women were diagnosed with breast cancer. They are usually between 30 and 60 years old while about 50% of these are below 50 years old.
9. HIV/ AIDS
Undoubtedly, the Human immunodeficiency virus infection / acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/ AIDS) is one of the top killers in the world. In Malaysia however, it was ranked eighth in terms of fatal health diseases in 2010. This has already changed by 2014 where it has since increased to 4,848 deaths, putting it on the ninth spot in terms of killer diseases.
10. Common and other injuries
A combined total of common and other injuries contributes to 3,804 deaths in Malaysia, making it the tenth highest killer.
Healthy Living Tips to Avoid the Top Killer Diseases in Malaysia
Living a healthy lifestyle plays a crucial role in preventing the top killer diseases in Malaysia, including heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory conditions. Many of these life-threatening illnesses are closely linked to daily habits such as poor diet, lack of physical activity, smoking, and excessive alcohol intake. By adopting simple changes like eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, managing stress, and going for routine health screenings, Malaysians can significantly reduce their risk of developing these common diseases. Understanding the connection between lifestyle and health is key to building a healthier future and reducing preventable deaths across the country.
Start Your Journey to Better Health Today
Many of the top killer diseases in Malaysia are closely linked to lifestyle choices and can be prevented with early action and greater awareness. By making healthier decisions daily and going for regular medical checkups, Malaysians can take control of their health and lower the risk of serious illnesses. Prevention starts with each of us taking that first step towards a healthier life.
At GHHS Healthcare, we know early detection is key to effective prevention. Our comprehensive health screening packages help Malaysians monitor their health and identify potential issues before they become serious. With modern facilities and experienced professionals, GHHS Healthcare offers reliable checkups that promote healthier living and peace of mind. Regular screenings are one of the best ways to safeguard yourself and your loved ones from Malaysia’s top killer diseases. Book your health screening with GHHS Healthcare today.
