One in Six Women at Risk of Breast Cancer, Experts Warn as Awareness Month Begins

Breast Cancer Awareness Month has begun in Sri Lanka, with the Colombo Municipal Council illuminated in pink yesterday to raise awareness about the disease.

The event was held under the patronage of Colombo Mayor Vraie Balthazaar, marking the beginning of activities for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which is observed in October.

Director of the National Cancer Control Programme of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Senaka Thalagalla, said around 6,000 breast cancer cases are reported in Sri Lanka each year, with approximately 1,000 deaths recorded annually.

He said this translates to around 17 new breast cancer cases being reported each day and approximately three deaths daily.

Speaking at the event, President of the Sri Lanka College of Oncologists, Dr. Sanjeeva Gunasekara, said approximately one in six women worldwide is at risk of developing breast cancer.

However, he stressed that early detection has contributed to a reduction in breast cancer-related deaths globally.

Dr. Nayana Samarasinghe, representing the Association of Radiologists, also addressed the gathering and highlighted the importance of breast cancer awareness and early detection.

The programme was jointly organised by the Colombo Municipal Council and the Indira Cancer Trust as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month activities.

A number of women who attended the event wore pink sarees as a symbol of support for breast cancer awareness.