Breast cancer deaths in SL see concerning rise: Health Authorities
By: Isuru Parakrama
September 26, Colombo (LNW): Health authorities in Sri Lanka have raised alarms over the growing number of breast cancer deaths, particularly when compared to other nations.
Dr. Hasareli Fernando, a community health specialist at the National Cancer Control Programme, emphasised that the mortality rate associated with breast cancer has seen a notable increase, sparking concern among medical professionals and public health officials.
During a media briefing held at the Health Promotions Bureau, Dr. Fernando revealed that approximately 5,500 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in the country each year.
The issue has become a major public health concern, given the rising incidence of the disease. Whilst breast cancer is typically viewed as a condition primarily affecting women, Dr. Fernando underscored the particular dangers it poses to men, who often face more dire outcomes due to the disease’s late diagnosis.
Sri Lanka sees around 125 male breast cancer cases annually, and due to a lack of awareness, men are more likely to succumb to the disease.
Dr. Fernando explained that early detection and timely intervention could dramatically reduce fatalities, but many Sri Lankans still fail to recognise the early warning signs of breast cancer.
As a result, the disease is often discovered in its later stages, when treatment options are more limited and less effective. She stressed the need for enhanced public awareness campaigns, targeted specifically at encouraging both women and men to regularly self-examine and seek medical advice if they detect any abnormalities.
The rising number of breast cancer deaths has prompted renewed efforts from the National Cancer Control Programme to improve early detection strategies. They aim to increase access to mammograms and other diagnostic services, especially in rural areas where healthcare resources are often limited.
Additionally, Dr. Fernando highlighted the importance of training healthcare workers to identify symptoms in men, given that breast cancer in males is less commonly discussed and understood.
Health authorities are now calling for a more coordinated approach to tackle this pressing concern, with a focus on prevention, early detection, and better access to treatment for both women and men.
