Colombo, Sri Lanka – Sri Lanka has made notable progress in cancer prevention, treatment and palliative care over the past five years, according to an international review by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).
The assessment, completed in March 2025, credited the country with surpassing 90% coverage for the first dose of HPV vaccination and screening more than half of eligible women for cervical cancer by 2022. Other milestones include the introduction of new radiation therapy equipment, expanded outpatient chemotherapy services and the establishment of palliative care consultation in 11 institutions, supported by 230 public health nursing officers offering home-based care.
“This progress is evident across the continuum of care,” said Arsen Juric, IAEA Programme Officer and team leader for the review. “Sri Lanka has strengthened prevention, expanded access to treatment and broadened palliative care services.”
The review, involving 17 international experts, examined advances since 2019, when the country launched its National Strategic Plan on Prevention and Control of Cancer (2020–2024). It also sets the stage for the upcoming 2025–2029 plan and the National Health Strategic Master Plan 2026–2035.
Director General of Health Services Asela Gunawardena said the recommendations from the review will help chart the next phase of cancer control. “The journey ahead is critical, as Sri Lanka works to combat a growing burden of cancer and improve health outcomes,” he noted.
Rising Cancer Burden
National data shows cancer incidence has more than doubled in two decades — from 70 cases per 100,000 adults in 2005 to 151 in 2021. Many cases are detected late, with 63% of oral cancers, 45% of cervical cancers and 37% of breast cancers diagnosed at stage III or IV. Oral cancer is now the most common cancer among Sri Lankan men, while breast and cervical cancers top the list for women. Childhood cancer rates have also climbed sharply.
WHO Country Representative Rui De Jesus warned of an increase in behavioural risk factors such as tobacco use. “Research shows up to half of cancer deaths could be prevented by tackling environmental and behavioural risks, including infection control,” he said.
Next Steps
The review recommends forming an inter-ministerial body to coordinate national cancer programmes, expanding early detection for high-risk groups — including estate workers, fishermen and agricultural workers — and strengthening cancer registries, referral systems and quality standards in care facilities. It also calls for earlier integration of palliative care into treatment pathways.
International partners, including the IAEA and WHO, have pledged continued support, particularly in radiation medicine and diagnostic services.
Leave a comment