Around 1,000 children diagnosed with cancer annually

Around 900 to 1,000 children and adolescents below the age of 19 are diagnosed with cancer in Sri Lanka each year, Consultant Community Physician of the National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) Dr. Suraj Perera said.

Speaking at a media briefing organised by the NCCP at the Health Promotion Bureau, Dr. Perera said the most common cancers diagnosed among children and adolescents included leukaemia, lymphoma, brain tumours, bone cancers and eye cancers.

He stressed that childhood cancer could be treated successfully in many cases if it was detected early and appropriate treatment was provided promptly.

Dr. Perera said greater awareness was therefore needed among parents and the public about the signs and symptoms of cancer in children and the importance of seeking medical attention without delay.

September is observed worldwide as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month to raise awareness of cancers affecting children and adolescents and to promote early detection, treatment and support for affected children and their families.