A total of 900 child cancer patients have been reported across Sri Lanka within the past year, according to the Health Promotion Bureau (HPB).
Dr. Suraj Perera, Consultant Community Physician of the National Cancer Control Programme, announced that an agreement has been signed with the Minister of Health to supply all essential medicines needed for the treatment of child cancer patients over the next three years.
He emphasised the importance of early detection, stating that identifying cancer symptoms promptly allows for timely medical intervention, which can greatly improve treatment success.
Dr. Perera urged parents and guardians to seek immediate medical attention if children show persistent or unusual symptoms.
Under the new agreement, all necessary medications will be provided free of charge, ensuring continuous and uninterrupted treatment for young patients.
Health authorities are optimistic that this three-year initiative will bolster pediatric cancer care services and provide significant relief to families dealing with the emotional and financial burdens of childhood cancer.