The Hon. Sivagnanam Shritharan

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, this Adjournment debate on breast cancer, moved notably by women Parliamentarians, is most timely.

¶ 02 In Sri Lanka and globally, many only discover they have cancer at a terminal stage, which instils fear and the belief that cancer equals death. Recently, in the UK, the wife of a friend was diagnosed and passed away within about two months. Many do not undergo preventive screening or know the symptoms. Social stigma also prevents discussion and timely care.

¶ 03 With around 15,000 people affected annually and three to four dying daily, this is grave. Beyond symptoms, lifestyle and diet are key factors. Traditional diets have shifted to processed, chemical-laden foods; even lactating mothers and infants are consuming such products. Our people have moved away from natural foods, which likely contributes significantly to cancer incidence.

¶ 04 Earlier generations lived to 80–100, largely due to their natural diets and lifestyles. Today’s mechanized life pushes instant processed foods. We must re-examine family lifestyles.

¶ 05 Sri Lanka’s Apeksha Hospital in Maharagama and other cancer facilities reveal life’s limits: I recently saw a four-year-old child with cancer, and many disfigured by the disease. Therefore, beyond symbolic pink attire, we should take this as a sustained campaign—carry awareness to schoolchildren to build a healthy society. Convey that cancer can be overcome; instil confidence and courage in both women and men. Let us all join this effort. I welcome the Motion and conclude. Thank you.