The Ministry of Health stated that 12 advanced colposcopy machines had been added to the State hospital system to strengthen the detection and treatment of cervical cancer.

A further six machines are expected to be installed next month, according to the Ministry.

Each machine is valued at around Rs  6 million, with more than Rs  72 million allocated by the Ministry of Health and Mass Media for the programme so far.

The machines have been installed at hospitals in Anuradhapura, Badulla, Batticaloa, Jaffna, Kurunegala, Gampaha, Matara, Monaragala, Puttalam, Kandy, Hambantota, and De Soysa Hospital for Women.

The remaining six machines are expected to be installed at teaching and district general hospitals in Ampara, Ragama, Kalutara, Kuliyapitiya, Matale, and Vavuniya. More than Rs  42 million has been allocated for that phase of the programme.

Once all installations are completed, the total number of colposcopy machines available within the Government hospital system will increase to 33.

The Ministry stated the main objective is to ensure islandwide access to cervical cancer detection and treatment services.

Colposcopy is a medical procedure used to examine the cervix and vaginal tissues for abnormalities through a specialised magnifying instrument. The equipment allows doctors to identify abnormal cells and lesions in greater detail and provide appropriate treatment. The machines are used by obstetricians, gynaecologists, and gynaecological cancer specialists to detect cervical cancer and related abnormalities.

According to the National Cancer Control Programme, cervical cancer is a disease that can be prevented if detected at the pre-cancerous stage. The programme states that the disease is caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV).

Health data show that around 1,200 new patients are diagnosed annually, whereas nearly 180 deaths are reported each year due to delayed or inadequate treatment.