When we hear about a prank going viral, it’s usually a practical joke done just for the heck of it or for a good marketing gimmick, kan? But this particular prank which took place in a few shopping malls is a bit more unique in its premise.
Recently, there have been reports of a display featuring a mannequin wearing a bra which, at first, was nothing out of the ordinary. That is until curious shoppers found that the bra could change colour! Stranger still, it’s said that the bra changes colour based on the health status of the person touching it!
Many of the passersby were bewildered by this strange bra but also curious to see how it worked. So unsurprisingly, some of them touched the screen as prompted by the display.
But here’s the real reason why they made this “health status” bra!
Surprise, surprise! Turns out the whole thing was a prank by Fujifilm! And as with most pranks, this one elicited quite a number of amusing reactions.
Some of them chided themselves for not even questioning why such a bra would exist to begin with. Others were genuinely disappointed that this unique bra isn’t actually for sale! But all in all, they found out that this whole setup was made in conjunction with Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
All this being said, breast cancer is no joke.
Jokes and funny reactions aside, the ultimate point of the prank addresses a very serious topic: breast cancer awareness. As told by a spokesperson from Fujifilm, “Breast cancer is no laughing matter; it threatens women’s health everywhere and the first line of defence against it is through regular mammogram screening.”
Breast cancer screenings are vital for more than just detection; they also serve as a proactive approach to maintaining health in other ways including:
- Risk assessment: Screenings can help you get a grasp on any possible personal health risks, allowing you to make informed decisions including lifestyle changes, preventive measures or other health interventions.
- Public health: Annual screenings can contribute to public health efforts and minimise financial and logistical strains on healthcare systems.
- Reduced financial burden: Regular screenings may detect issues that, if left unaddressed, can lead to higher healthcare costs incurred by more expensive treatments in the long run.
Despite the importance, Fujifilm also acknowledges that there are misconceptions that have led to some Malaysians downplaying the need to get screened. “We interviewed some of the mangsa (of the prank) and asked why they didn’t go for a screening in the past year,” the representative told us.
“Some of them cited factors such as the cost or viability as reasons not to get tested; others even said that they’re outright afraid of being diagnosed with breast cancer!”
Here are some common breast cancer myths we’d like to address, in case you’ve fallen for them!:
- ❌ MYTH: “Even if I go for screening, it’ll be too late already once they detect signs!”
✅ FACT: Screenings can help detect breast cancer in early stages when there is a higher likelihood of remission. - ❌ MYTH: “Can do self-exam at home lorh! Just as effective as mammograms!”
✅ FACT: Regular mammogram screenings and breast examinations by professionals are the best ways to detect breast cancer. - ❌ MYTH: “Breast cancer screenings are too expensive!”
✅ FACT: Screenings can cost around RM150 to RM370, which is a worthwhile investment if you’re only going for a screening annually.
That being said, not every Malaysian woman can afford to get screened even once a year especially if they’re in the B40 category. To help with their plight, here’s what Fujifilm has going on for Pinktober!
From now until the end of the year, Fujifilm is sponsoring FREE screenings* using their mammography machines at Assunta Hospital, PJ and Bintulu Medical Centre, Sarawak!
Fujifilm is most famous for their high-quality photography products but we’re sure a lot of you are surprised that they also develop innovative screening machines for women’s healthcare, betul tak? Fujifilm believes women’s health doesn’t need to come at a price; that’s why they’re collaborating with Assunta Hospital, PJ and Bintulu Medical Centre, Sarawak to hold free screenings using their mammography machines.
With this limited-time offering, women aged 40 and above who are categorised under the B40 income bracket can get in on this service to safeguard their well-being!
Early detection saves lives, so take that first step for your well-being by signing up for a free mammogram screening today!
