The Sri Lanka College of Oncologists (SLCO) has expressed serious concerns over a purported “cancer cure” developed by a research team from the University of Colombo, warning that the product lacks credible scientific evidence and could endanger vulnerable patients.
In a letter to University Vice Chancellor Prof. Indika Mahesh Karunathilake, SLCO President Dr. Sanath Wanigasooriya stated that the College was “deeply alarmed by the glaring lack of credible evidence concerning the efficacy and safety of this product.”
While acknowledging the value of locally driven cancer research, Dr. Wanigasooriya stressed that any medicine intended for patient use must meet rigorous scientific and regulatory standards, which the research team had failed to demonstrate.
He further noted that although the product is being marketed as a “nutraceutical,” its promotional content is highly misleading, exploiting the emotional vulnerabilities of cancer patients and their families.
The SLCO also raised concern that the product’s publicity, coinciding with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, appears to capitalize on heightened cancer awareness generated by SLCO and other respected organisations.
Highlighting the potential harm, Dr. Wanigasooriya stated that unverified cancer products can delay life-saving treatments, cause financial distress, and erode trust in scientifically proven therapies.
The College urged the University of Colombo to conduct an immediate and thorough investigation, publicly clarify its position, and, if concerns are substantiated, disassociate itself from the product through mainstream and social media.
The letter also called for strict measures to prevent similar incidents and safeguard research integrity in the future, warning that promoting unproven cancer treatments poses a profound risk to patients and society as a whole.
