Lung cancer cases in Sri Lanka have increased by approximately 50% since 2010, with health experts warning of a growing trend among both men and women.
Consultant Thoracic Surgeon at the National Institute of Respiratory Diseases Dr. Saman Iddagoda, revealed this while addressing a media briefing held at the Health Promotion Bureau.
He said an analysis of data from the National Hospital for Respiratory Diseases and the National Cancer Control Programme covering the period from 2010 to 2020 had revealed an approximately 50% increase in lung cancer cases among both males and females.
He noted that lung cancer is emerging as one of the major cancers among men and is also entering the top 10 most common cancers among women.
Dr. Iddagoda further highlighted a rise in lung cancer cases among non-smokers, particularly women who have never smoked.
Meanwhile, Consultant Community Physician at the National Cancer Control Programme, Dr. Hasarali Fernando, said approximately 90% of lung cancer cases are associated with smoking.
However, she stressed that non-smokers are also at risk due to exposure to second-hand smoke and both outdoor and indoor air pollution.
She explained that outdoor air pollution, particularly from vehicle and industrial emissions, can increase the risk of lung cancer. Indoor air pollution caused by burning firewood and kerosene, especially in poorly ventilated homes, is another contributing factor.
Dr. Fernando also identified certain chronic respiratory conditions and exposure to carcinogenic substances such as radon, asbestos and silica as additional risk factors for lung cancer.