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SL has achieved impressive progress in treating cancers in children: Medical expert
By Pradeep Prasanna Samarakoon
Sri Lanka has advanced capabilities to treat paediatric cancers, surpassing many other hospitals in South Asia, according to Dr. Mahendra Somatilaka, a specialist in paediatric oncology at the Apeksha Hospital (National Cancer Institute) at Maharagama. He made these remarks during a media briefing held at the Health Education Bureau in Colombo on 12 February.
Dr Somatilaka highlighted that paediatric cancers could manifest in various forms, with the three most common being blood cancers, brain tumours, and bone or muscle-related cancers.
“Blood-related cancers, particularly leukaemia, are among the most frequently diagnosed in children. While not every case can be definitively classified as cancer, there are key warning signs parents should be aware of. Persistent swelling of lymph nodes, recurrent fevers, frequent infections, unexplained bruising, and slow-healing wounds on the limbs could indicate an underlying condition. Additionally, if a child develops anaemia, loses their appetite, or experiences unexplained weight gain, these may also be signs of a serious illness,” he explained.
Unlike adults, young children rarely develop arthritis, yet some cases of leukaemia can present with symptoms resembling arthritis.
“Brain tumours are another common form of paediatric cancer,” Dr Somatilaka said, noting that persistent headaches, particularly in the early morning, accompanied by vomiting, could be indicative of a brain tumour. In many instances, parents mistake these symptoms for gastritis or other minor ailments, leading to prolonged misdiagnosis. Some children receive treatment for abdominal discomfort for months before the true cause is identified. Seizures can also be a symptom of brain tumours, even in children with no family history of epilepsy.
Bone and muscle cancers are also prevalent among children, often presenting as small lumps that parents and caregivers dismiss as sports injuries. Many delay seeking treatment, opting for home remedies instead. “By the time these children are referred to a specialist, the cancer has often spread significantly,” Dr Somatilaka warned.
Eye cancers, particularly retinoblastoma, are another critical concern, especially in children aged three to four. Warning signs include the development of a squint or an unusual white reflection in the eye, resembling a glass-like glow. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment.
Dr Somatilaka urged parents to be vigilant about these symptoms and seek immediate medical attention if any unusual signs persist, as early diagnosis significantly improves treatment outcomes.
Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi departed today (06) from Air Force Base Anuradhapura concluding his State visit to Sri Lanka. The Indian Premier embarked on a tour to Sri Lanka at the invitation from President Anura Kumara Disanayake.
This visit underscores the enduring relationship encapsulated by the theme “Friendship of Centuries, Commitment to a Prosperous Future,” further solidifying the bonds between India and Sri Lanka.
This marks Prime Minister Modi’s fourth visit to Sri Lanka, which has further enhanced the economic, cultural, and historical relations between the two nations, while also reinforcing their multifaceted partnership. This visit by the Indian Prime Minister reinforces Sri Lanka’s important role in India’s “Neighbourhood First Policy” and ‘MAHASAGAR’ vision concerning diplomatic relations.
This state visit is anticipated to yield significant results on various collaborative initiatives, fostering a path towards mutual growth and development. The citizens of Sri Lanka will soon be able to witness the fruitful outcomes of these partnerships, and Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s visit will mark a significant milestone in the government’s pursuit of sustainable development focused on the needs of the people.
Accompanying Indian Prime Minister Modi were Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and a delegation of senior officials from the Indian government.
[PMD]
Latest News
President Dissanayake and Indian PM Modi jointly commission upgraded Maho-Omanthai railway line & Maho-Anuradhapura railway signalling system
The upgraded Maho–Omanthai railway line and the newly installed Maho–Anuradhapura railway signalling system were officially commissioned by Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and President Anura Kumara Disanayake today (06)
The Prime Minister of India is currently visiting Sri Lanka at the invitation of President Anura Kumara Disanayake, reinforcing the longstanding bond encapsulated in the theme “Friendship of Centuries Commitment to a Prosperous Future” between the two nations.
Highlighting one of the key aspects of this visit, the two leaders participated in these inaugural ceremonies. The President and the Prime Minister of India jointly unveiled the commemorative plaque and commissioned the railway line and signalling system.
The upgraded Maho-Omanthai Railway Line project was carried out with funding through the Indian Credit Line, totalling an investment of US$ 91.27 million. The Maho–Anuradhapura railway signalling system, established as a result of President Disanayake’s recent visit to India, was funded by the Indian Government at a cost of USD 14.89 million.
[PMD]
Latest News
Prime Minister Modi and President Dissanayake pay homage to the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, currently on a State visit to Sri Lanka, along with President Anura Kumara Disanayake paid homage to the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura this morning (06) and received blessings.
Following his visit to the sacred site, Prime Minister Modi proceeded to the Udamaluwa, where he met with the Chief Incumbent of the Atamasthanadhipathi and Chief Sanghanayake of Nuwarakalaviya, Most Venerable Dr. Pallegama Hemarathana Nayaka Thera, for a cordial discussion.
During the meeting, the Prime Minister shared that relics of the Buddha were discovered in excavations conducted in his home state of Gujarat during the 1960s. He further stated that he would discuss with the President of Sri Lanka the possibility of exhibiting these sacred relics in Sri Lanka.
Responding to a request made by the Atamasthanadhipathi to develop Bodh Gaya as a spiritual city, Prime Minister Modi assured that he would take the necessary steps after discussions with President Disanayake and work towards making it a reality.
The Maha Sangha, led by the Atamasthanadhipathi, chanted Seth Pirith and invoked blessings on the Indian Prime Minister.
The Indian Prime Minister also left a commemorative note in the special guest book at the site. In addition, he formally declared open the newly constructed ‘Makara Thorana’ within the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi premises.
The occasion was also attended by Chief Incumbent of the Ruwanweli Maha Seya Temple Ven. Ethalawetunawewe Gnanathilaka Thera and other Atamasthana Viharadhipathi Theras, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Vijitha Herath, Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development, Wasantha Samarasinghe, Minister of Health and Mass Media Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, North Central Province Governor Wasantha Jinadasa, Indian High Commissioner Santosh Jha and others.
[PMD]
Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi concludes State Visit to Sri Lanka
President Dissanayake and Indian PM Modi jointly commission upgraded Maho-Omanthai railway line & Maho-Anuradhapura railway signalling system
Prime Minister Modi and President Dissanayake pay homage to the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
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