Lung cancer cases in Sri Lanka have increased by approximately 50% since 2010, with health experts raising concerns over the growing number of cases among both men and women.
Consultant Thoracic Surgeon at the National Institute of Respiratory Diseases, Dr. Saman Iddagoda, disclosed this during 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 shown an approximately 50% increase in lung cancer cases among both males and females.
According to Dr. Iddagoda, lung cancer has become one of the major cancers affecting men and is also among the 10 most common cancers among women.
He also highlighted an increase in 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 pointed out that non-smokers are also vulnerable due to exposure to second-hand smoke and indoor and outdoor air pollution.
Dr. Fernando explained that outdoor air pollution, particularly emissions from vehicles and industries, can increase the risk of lung cancer. Indoor pollution caused by burning firewood and kerosene, especially in poorly ventilated homes, was also identified as a contributing factor.
She further identified certain chronic respiratory conditions and exposure to carcinogenic substances, including radon, asbestos and silica, as additional risk factors for the disease.
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