By: Isuru Parakrama
October 13, Colombo (LNW): Health authorities in Sri Lanka have expressed concern over a sharp rise in cancer diagnoses, with over 33,000 new cases and 19,000 deaths recorded in the past year alone.
The alarming statistics were highlighted during the 21st Annual Academic Sessions of the Sri Lanka College of Oncologists (SLCO), recently held in Colombo.
Health Secretary Dr. Palitha Mahipala drew attention to the most prevalent forms of cancer, noting that amongst men, oral cancer remains the leading diagnosis, whilst breast cancer continues to dominate among women.
The significant rise in cancer cases is reflective of a broader global trend, with projections suggesting a 77 per cent increase in cases by 2050, particularly in low-income countries.
During his address, Dr. Mahipala emphasised the urgent need for preventive measures, urging Sri Lankans to reduce risk factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, poor dietary habits, and sedentary lifestyles.
He stressed that the majority of cancer cases can be avoided through lifestyle changes, with only a small percentage linked to genetic predispositions.
Highlighting global data, Dr. Mahipala noted that in 2022, there were nearly 20 million new cancer diagnoses worldwide, resulting in almost 10 million deaths.
He added that in Sri Lanka, breast cancer, oral cancer, lung cancer, and colorectal cancer remain the most lethal forms of the disease. Last year, 4,555 women were diagnosed with breast cancer, whilst 1,990 men were identified as having oral cancer.
