The Ministry of Health has revealed that Sri Lanka currently has 37,753 cancer patients, with approximately 104 new cases diagnosed each day.
Speaking at a media briefing at the Health Promotion Bureau ahead of World Cancer Day (February 4), Community Health Specialist Dr. Hasareli Fernando from the National Cancer Control Program emphasized the major risk factors contributing to cancer cases in the country.
She noted that chewing Areca nut, tobacco use, and smoking are the primary causes of oral cancer, while smoking alone accounts for over 80% of lung cancer cases.
The Health Ministry continues to raise awareness on cancer prevention and early detection as part of its efforts to combat the disease.
