Breast cancer and prostate cancer are among the top causes of death worldwide among women and men respectively. 2010 National Cancer Control Programme revealed that one in eight women in Sri Lanka had a probability of being susceptible to cancer. Prostate cancer on the other hand is also one of the commonest cancers in aging males and is regarded as one of the cancers that can be prevented from advancing and metastasizing, if diagnosed and treated at an early stage.
Committing to their vision to ensure a healthy Sri Lanka, country’s pioneer in premium private healthcare Nawaloka Hospitals has introduced two special screening packages for breast and prostate cancer and will be offering discounts on these packages throughout the month of February, in lieu of the World Cancer Day that falls on the 4th.
Nawaloka Hospitals has made a substantial investment in improving and buying latest technology over the last decade especially in radiology. Radiological imaging identifies the problem accurately and aids in determining the best and most effective approach to treating patients.
“Usually females over the age of 35 years and those with a history of breast cancer in the family should be especially cautious about breast cancer and are encouraged to conduct frequent self-examination,” said Consultant Radiologist Dr. A. N. I Wijesinha.
She further said that if any abnormalities in the breasts such as lumps, dimpling, retraction of nipple, redness, nipple discharge, soreness or swelling are detected, patients should seek medical consultation without delay. Women with a history of breast cancer in the family and over 40 are advised to be alert and pay close attention to such changes that take place in their breasts.
The Nawaloka Hospitals Breast Care Centre carries out mammograms and other screening procedures in keeping with international protocols regarding minimal radiation of 4 to 5mGy. In the event that any abnormalities are detected, the centre conducts more complex testing and procedures such as fine needle aspiration for cytology, needle core biopsy for histology, vacuum assisted mammotomy/ BIOPSY-VAM, Open Surgical biopsy and Breast MRI.
The Centre offers an exclusive care package to patients – from screening to diagnosis and throughout the complete treatment process.
Consultant Urological Surgeon Dr. Ajith Malalasekera said that the number of deaths due to prostate cancer remains high because most cases go undetected due to lack of awareness among the general public on detection, surgery and other treatment options.
“Men above the age of 60 years are prone to prostate cancer. Some symptoms of the condition include difficulty in urinating, frequent urges to urinate at night and blood in urine. Such signs should not be ignored at any cost.
“In developed countries, early detection and effective care have reduced the number of deaths while in countries like Sri Lanka lack of awareness and proper diagnostic facilities are leading causes for most cases of prostate cancer going undetected until the late stages,” he explained.
Make the most of the special 20% discount on the breast and prostate cancer screening packages offered throughout the month of February at Nawaloka Hospitals. More information on the packages can be obtained from calling 0766279933.
Nawaloka entered the state dominated healthcare sector in 1985 and was set up to mirror reputed hospitals in the region which offered advanced medical technology and expert medical care. With its entry the private healthcare system took root in Sri Lanka and people were provided with an alternative to seeking specialized treatment outside the country. The Hospital was a pioneering initiative that built an impeccable reputation and has been at the forefront of the Sri Lankan healthcare sector for over three decades.