• Early Detection Centre lacks space for mammography machine 

The National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) is currently unable to carry out breast cancer screening for women at its recently relocated Cancer Early Detection Centre in Colombo due to a lack of space to install a mammography machine, Government Radiological Technologists said.

The Centre, which operated for over 20 years in a private building on Alvitigala Mawatha, Narahenpita, was relocated in February to a new facility adjacent to the Out-Patient Department of the National Hospital of Colombo.

Government Radiological Technologists Association President Chanaka Dharmawickrama told The Daily Morning yesterday (23) that although clinical services began at the new premises on 9 February, mammogram tests have yet to commence as no suitable space has been allocated for the machine.

“As a result, nearly 1,200 women are currently awaiting mammogram examinations. In the absence of a confirmed timeline or location for installing the machine, issuing appointments has been completely suspended,” he said.

Dharmawickrama stressed that early detection of breast cancer— a major national health concern— significantly improves chances of recovery, reduces complications, and lowers treatment costs. The Centre has been providing specialised screening services for women over 40 and remains the only State facility equipped to conduct mammography-based screening, despite similar centres being established islandwide.

He noted that the facility detects over 100 breast cancer cases annually and ensures timely referral for treatment. In contrast, obtaining the same service privately costs over Rs. 25,000.

He urged the Health Minister and relevant authorities to take immediate action to resolve the issue.

Meanwhile, NCCP sources said that efforts to identify and prepare suitable space for the mammography unit are ongoing under the Programme Director and relevant authorities, noting that the process is complex.