The Minister spoke at the WHO Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer (WHO GICC) event held alongside the 79th World Health Assembly, highlighting Sri Lanka’s efforts to improve survivorship care and long-term health outcomes.
He said Sri Lanka’s free healthcare system provides a strong foundation for ensuring equitable access to cancer detection, treatment, rehabilitation, and psychosocial support for children.
Dr. Jayatissa stressed that care for childhood cancer survivors must extend beyond hospitals and involve primary healthcare systems, schools, families, and communities to ensure continuous support.
He also noted that Sri Lanka is strengthening structured follow-up services through pediatric cancer treatment centres, community health programmes, and initiatives such as Arogya Wellness Centres.
A delegation of senior health officials, including Health Ministry Secretary Dr. Anil Jasinghe, is also participating in the ongoing WHO Assembly in Geneva.
