By Rathindra Kuruwita
Around 70 percent of annual cancer-related deaths occur in lower-middle-income countries, with breast cancer being one of the leading causes, according to Dr. Buddhini Denuwara, Senior Registrar in Community Medicine (Department of Nutrition) at the Ministry of Health. Speaking in a recent televised interview, Dr. Denuwara highlighted the urgency of addressing the rising incidence of cancer in Sri Lanka.
“Each year, we identify approximately 37,000 cancer patients in the country, which equates to an average of 103 new cases per day. Among these, breast cancer is the most common form of cancer among women, accounting for about 5,000 cases annually. Prevention should be a priority,” she said.
Dr. Denuwara noted that the cancer incidence rate has increased significantly over the years. “In 2005, we recorded 18.4 cancer patients per 100,000 people. This number rose to 24.3 in 2014 and further increased to 34.9 in 2019.”
She emphasised that the risk of breast cancer grows as women age, with the majority of cases being detected between the ages of 50 and 54. “Only about one-third of breast cancer cases are diagnosed in women under 50 years old. Annually, breast cancer claims around 700 lives in Sri Lanka. We can reduce these deaths by improving early detection and increasing public understanding,” Dr. Denuwara added.
In addition to early detection, women with a family history of breast cancer should be particularly vigilant, advised Dr. Asanka Gamage, Consultant Oncologist at Hambantota District General Hospital.
“Women with a family history should follow screening guidelines closely and consider genetic testing. Several key genes, including BRCA1 and BRCA2, can increase the risk of breast cancer,” she explained.
BRCA1 and BRCA2 are known as tumour suppressor genes, which play a crucial role in repairing DNA damage that can lead to cancer. Although everyone has these genes, certain mutations can impair their ability to prevent cancer, leading to a heightened risk.
“A small percentage of the population, approximately one in 400 people, carry a mutation in one of these genes. Women with a BRCA1 mutation have a 55-65% chance of developing breast cancer before the age of 70, while those with a BRCA2 mutation have a 45% chance,” Dr. Gamage explained.
She also pointed out the hormonal factors that may contribute to breast cancer risk. “Women who have been exposed to high levels of hormones over long periods, such as those who started menstruation early or experienced menopause later than average, are at greater risk.”
Dr. Gamage noted that pregnancy can lower the risk of breast cancer as it halts the menstrual cycle for about 18 months, reducing exposure to hormonal fluctuations.
“Other risk factors include ageing, obesity, unhealthy eating habits, smoking, and lack of exercise,” she added, stressing the importance of lifestyle changes in reducing the risk of developing breast cancer.
The growing incidence of cancer, particularly breast cancer, underscores the need for greater public awareness, early screening, and preventive measures in Sri Lanka.
