Critical PET Scan Services Suspended in Sri Lankan State Hospitals

Critical PET scan services for cancer patients have been suspended in major Sri Lankan government hospitals, including the Maharagama Apeksha Hospital and the National Hospital in Colombo, since March 27. This disruption is attributed to a severe shortage of Fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG), a vital radioactive chemical required for these scans. The scarcity stems from issues with the supplier's updated registration with the National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA), according to the Government Radiological Technologists' Association. Previously imported from India, the lack of this essential compound has left patients facing significant hardships, with some reportedly forced to pay over LKR 300,000 for private scans or travel abroad for treatment.