Lung cancer cases double in Sri Lanka

Lung cancer cases in Sri Lanka have nearly doubled over the past decade, with health experts warning of a rising incidence among both men and women.

Consultant Thoracic Surgeon at the National Institute of Respiratory Diseases Dr. Saman Iddagoda said an analysis of data from the National Hospital for Respiratory Diseases and the National Cancer Control Programme showed an approximately 50% increase in lung cancer cases between 2010 and 2020.

He disclosed this at a media briefing held at the Health Promotion Bureau.

Dr. Iddagoda said lung cancer had emerged as one of the major cancers among men and was also entering the top 10 most common cancers among women.

He also highlighted a growing number of lung cancer cases among non-smokers, particularly women who had never smoked.

Consultant Community Physician at the National Cancer Control Programme Dr. Hasarali Fernando said about 90% of lung cancer cases were associated with smoking.

However, she said non-smokers were also at risk from second-hand smoke and exposure to outdoor and indoor air pollution.

Outdoor air pollution, particularly vehicle and industrial emissions, could increase the risk of lung cancer, while indoor pollution caused by burning firewood and kerosene in poorly ventilated homes was another contributing factor, she said.

Dr. Fernando also identified chronic respiratory conditions and exposure to carcinogens such as radon, asbestos and silica as additional risk factors.

She urged greater awareness of these risks as lung cancer continues to emerge as a growing health concern in Sri Lanka.