Health authorities report that around 15 women in Sri Lanka are diagnosed with breast cancer every day, while three women lose their lives to the disease daily. Medical experts emphasize that breast cancer is completely curable if detected and treated at an early stage.
The Ministry of Health has designated October as “Pink Month” to raise public awareness about breast cancer and promote early detection practices across the country.
The Ministry advises women to perform monthly self-breast examinations after the age of 20, undergo clinical breast examinations every three years between ages 20 and 40, and annually after the age of 40.
Women are further urged to seek immediate medical consultation if they notice warning signs such as lumps in the breast or armpit, skin dimpling, breast swelling, nipple discharge or bleeding, nipple indentation, breast pain, or unusual skin changes. Medical assistance is available through Suwanari Clinics, Suwadivi Clinics, Cancer Early Detection Centers, Breast Clinics, and Surgery Clinics islandwide.
The breast cancer awareness program is being organized by the National Cancer Control Program of the Ministry of Health and Mass Media, in collaboration with the Rotaract Club of the University of Colombo, Sri Lanka Police, civil organizations, and both public and private institutions.
Breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women both globally and in Sri Lanka, highlighting the importance of preventive screening and awareness.
The national commemoration ceremony for Breast Cancer Awareness Month will be held today (11) at Havelock City Mall, Colombo 05, under the patronage of the Minister of Health and Mass Media, Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa.
