Cancer is a silent killer across the globe, but its toll is especially heavy in Asia, accounting for 60% of global cancer deaths.
Yet, many communities still lack access to early detection and personalised care. For many Asian women, breast cancer remains hidden until it’s too late — not because we lack the science, but because existing tools weren’t built with them in mind.
Built for Asian Women
Professor Ho Weang Kee middle (seated, middle) pictured with collaborators and colleagues.
Professor Ho Weang Kee — based at the School of Mathematical Sciences, who is also a Visiting Scientist at Cancer Research Malaysia, is leading a research team working at the intersection of data science and public health to advance how breast cancer risk is assessed for Asian women.
Based on data from over 60,000 Asian participants, the team has created the first genetic-based tool specifically designed to predict breast cancer risk in this multi-ethnic population. The team is now combining genetic, lifestyle, and medical imaging to build even more precise screening strategies, while also developing health economic models to ensure that these solutions are effective, practical and affordable.
Reaching more women, saving more lives
In many low and middle-income countries, regular screening remains out of reach. Mammograms can be expensive, and broad population-wide screening isn’t always feasible. By focusing on personalised, data-driven risk prediction, the team aims to help healthcare systems use limited resources more effectively, ensuring that women most at risk are diagnosed earlier and treated faster.
What makes this truly groundbreaking is its scalability. Malaysia’s diverse population is an ideal testing ground for tools to be adapted across Asia. The research aims to lay the groundwork for more inclusive, risk-based screening strategies that could eventually shape national guidelines.
Professor Ho Weang Kee giving a talk on breast cancer risk assessments.
“This work is deeply personal to me. As researchers, we often deal in data. But behind every number is a woman, a family, a future that might be changed with the right knowledge at the right time. Our goal is to make sure that no one is left behind simply because they weren’t seen in the data,” emphasises Professor Ho.
By closing the gap in breast cancer risk prediction for underrepresented groups, the team is helping pave the way for women from all walks of life to access life-saving care, regardless of income, ethnicity, or location.