Professor Dr Nirmala Bhoo Pathy

A leading figure in the realm of local and international cancer research, Professor Nirmala Bhoo is dedicated to alleviating the financial, emotional, and social burdens faced by cancer patients and their families, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. As the founder of the Well with Cancer - WeCan@MY research group, her work emphasises equitable access to high-quality, dignified cancer care. Her leadership in the ACTION (Asean Costs In Oncology) study, which involved over 10,000 households across Southeast Asia, provided crucial evidence that shaped regional cancer policies.

Her commitment extends to addressing broader societal issues, as demonstrated by her role as a commissioner on the Lancet Commission on Women, Power, and Cancer. In that role, she focused on how gender discrimination and cultural norms delay diagnoses and limit treatment access for women, while also challenging stereotypes surrounding women’s resilience in the face of cancer. Nirmala also leads the economic section of the Lancet Oncology Commission on Cancer as a Human Crisis, addressing the financial burdens of cancer care and highlighting the hidden costs beyond medical expenses that significantly impact families.

Her ongoing initiatives include launching a financial navigation programme for cancer patients in Malaysia, with the goal of offering holistic support that extends beyond medical treatment to enhance the overall well-being of patients and their families.