Women Parliamentarians to lead islandwide breast cancer awareness drive on November 2

Newswire reports that an islandwide initiative to encourage breast cancer awareness and earlier detection is planned for November 2, led by the Women Parliamentarians’ Caucus and the Ministry of Health. Newswire says the decision followed a recent caucus meeting chaired by its leader, Minister Saroja Savithri Paulraj, and was described in a Parliament statement. Ada Derana also reports that a nationwide programme is scheduled for that date.

Newswire reports that women MPs will arrange clinics and awareness events in electorates and districts, and participate in activities promoting screening. The outreach will seek to bring women from rural locations, plantation communities, high-rise residential areas and underserved places to Suwanari Clinics for screening and early detection.

Newswire reports that the campaign will also mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month, with women parliamentarians, school pupils and university students encouraged to wear pink ribbons, wristbands and clothing. Health Ministry officials cited by Newswire said Sri Lanka records about 6,000 new cases of breast cancer each year and that around 1,000 women die from it annually. Officials said detection at an early stage can allow the disease to be cured, while fear, embarrassment and limited knowledge can contribute to delays in seeking care.

Newswire reports that officials estimated only about half of women aged 35 to 45 currently visit Suwanari Clinics. Newswire says a more extensive national programme is planned for next year to refer every woman in that age bracket for screening tests, with relevant groups—including women’s societies at Grama Niladhari division level—expected to help increase participation.