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Sri Lanka

Colorectal cancer rates among adults and children on the rise

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Health experts have raised concerns about the growing incidence of colorectal cancer among both adults and children in Sri Lanka.

According to the National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP), there has been a notable increase in cases of colon and rectal cancer—collectively known as colorectal cancer—across all age groups in the country.

Dr. Shreeni Alahapperuma, Deputy Director of the NCCP, spoke at a press conference hosted by the Health Promotion Bureau, emphasizing that unhealthy lifestyle choices and inactivity are major contributors to this rise.

“Looking back a decade ago, colorectal cancer rates were relatively low both in Sri Lanka and globally. However, it has now become the third most common cancer worldwide and in Sri Lanka. Fortunately, there are preventive measures. Poor diet, lack of physical activity, and aging are the key risk factors,” Dr. Alahapperuma noted.

She went on to clarify that while aging itself doesn’t directly cause colorectal cancer, the accumulation of risk factors over time increases the likelihood of developing the disease in older individuals.

In Sri Lanka, approximately 1,500 men and 1,500 women are diagnosed with colorectal cancer every year, she revealed.

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