Cancer rates in Sri Lanka are rising rapidly due to a combination of unhealthy lifestyles, environmental pollution, and gaps in treatment access, according to Dr. Nadarajah Jeyakumaran, Consultant Clinical Oncologist at the National Cancer Institute in Maharagama.
In an interview with the Daily Mirror, Dr. Jeyakumaran noted that the increasing cancer burden reflects global trends, where longer life expectancy has led to a surge in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cancer.
He highlighted several man-made factors contributing to this rise, including contaminated food, polluted air, and unsafe water. “Our food is laced with pesticides, the air is filled with dust and microplastics, and water is polluted with nitrates from fertilizer use,” he explained.
He also cited poor dietary habits, lack of physical activity, and rising childhood obesity as growing concerns. “Children now move from school to tuition with little time for outdoor activity. This sedentary lifestyle contributes to obesity and increases cancer risk,” he said.
Among men, oropharyngeal cancers (mouth and throat) are the most prevalent, largely due to betel nut chewing, smoking, and alcohol consumption. In women, breast cancer remains the most common, followed by thyroid cancer—often driven by over-diagnosis through routine screening.
Dr. Jeyakumaran noted a decline in cervical cancer due to improved early detection programs but warned about the sharp increase in colorectal cancer, now the third most common cancer in both sexes. “This cancer is linked to western diets high in fat and low in fiber, coupled with physical inactivity and obesity,” he said.
On treatment, he acknowledged improvements in surgical and chemotherapy services across the country, but pointed out persistent issues with drug shortages and delays in radiotherapy access. Only five of the nine provinces currently have functioning radiotherapy machines, with others facing breakdowns and long waiting periods.
He added that the Health Ministry is working to improve treatment infrastructure, including the procurement of new radiotherapy machines for Maharagama and Galle.
“Cancer is not always a death sentence,” Dr. Jeyakumaran said. “With early detection and lifestyle changes, many cancers are preventable and treatable. Prevention, awareness, and timely access to care are critical.”
