Cancer services in Sri Lanka: current status and future directions

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Public Health
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Cancer burden is increasing in Sri Lanka, with incidence and mortality doubling in 25 years.
• Cancer is now the second leading cause of hospital mortality in the country.
• This review provides an overview of current cancer care and future directions in Sri Lanka.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current status of cancer care in Sri Lanka.
• To identify future directions for improving cancer services.
• To address the rising cancer burden in the nation.

Main Methods:

• Overview of state-provided cancer services and national cancer control policies.
• Analysis of implemented prevention (tobacco restrictions, HPV vaccination) and screening programs (breast, oral, cervical).
• Assessment of established medical oncology units and supporting departments in district hospitals.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements in cancer services due to national policies.
• Increasing diagnoses and treatments for various cancers including breast, oropharyngeal, and colorectal.
• Medical oncology units are established island-wide, supported by other specialties.

Conclusions:

• Sri Lanka has a developing cancer care program with strengths in prevention, screening, and treatment.
• Future improvements require enhanced cancer registry coverage, research, and community participation.
• Expanding palliative care, radiotherapy, and multi-disciplinary care are essential for future progress.