Over 33,000 new cancer cases and 19,000 deaths were reported in Sri Lanka last year, with oral cancer being the most common among men and breast cancer the leading type among women, according to Dr. Palitha Mahipala, Secretary of Health. He shared the statistics at the 21st Annual Academic Sessions of the Sri Lanka College of Oncologists (SLCO), which commenced in Colombo on October 10.

Speaking at the event, Mahipala warned that global cancer cases could rise by 77% by 2050, with the majority of the increase expected in low- and middle-income countries. He emphasized the importance of addressing modifiable risk factors, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, poor diet, and physical inactivity, to prevent thousands of new cancer cases annually.

“Cancer remains a major global health challenge,” Mahipala said, citing global statistics from 2022, which recorded nearly 20 million cancer cases and 9.7 million deaths. In Sri Lanka, breast, oral, lung, and colorectal cancers are the leading causes of cancer-related deaths, he added. Oral cancer affects 16.5 men per 100,000 population, with 1,990 cases reported, while breast cancer affects 27.3 women per 100,000, with 4,555 cases recorded last year.

Mahipala highlighted the need for early detection and timely treatment, noting that up to 95% of cancer cases are linked to environmental and lifestyle factors, while only 5-10% are caused by genetic mutations.

The SLCO’s annual sessions, themed “Expanding Horizons, Enhancing Lives,” feature presentations and discussions by both local and international experts. The event runs from October 10 to 14 at the Galadari Hotel.

During the event, Dr. Umagauri Saravanamuttu was appointed as the new president of the SLCO, succeeding Dr. Mahendra Perera. Several prominent figures in the oncology field attended, including SLCO Secretary Dr. Buddhika Somawardana.