Sri Lanka Boosts Cervical Cancer Fight With New Machines

The Sri Lankan Ministry of Health has introduced 12 advanced colposcopy machines to government hospitals, bolstering efforts against cervical cancer, the nation's fifth most common cancer in women. An additional six machines are slated for installation within the next month, expanding diagnostic capabilities. The initial phase of this project saw an investment exceeding Rs. 72 million, with over Rs. 42 million allocated for the second phase, totaling more than Rs. 114 million.

These new colposcopy units are now operational in major hospitals across various provinces, including Anuradhapura, Batticaloa, Jaffna, and the De Soysa Maternity Hospital. The upcoming installations will further distribute these vital resources to teaching and district general hospitals. This expansion will bring the total number of colposcopy machines in the state health system to 33, ensuring more equitable access to early diagnosis and treatment nationwide.

Cervical cancer, largely preventable and often caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), poses a significant public health challenge in Sri Lanka, with approximately 1,200 new cases and 180 deaths annually. Early detection through procedures like colposcopy is key to timely treatment and reducing mortality rates. Specialists utilize this technology as part of comprehensive screening and management programs.