Sri Lanka Faces Critical Shortage of Blood Cancer Specialists Amid Rising Patient Numbers

Consultant Specialist Dr. Buddhika Somawardhana from the Blood Cancer Unit of Apeksha Hospital, Maharagama, has highlighted a significant challenge in Sri Lanka's healthcare system. The country records approximately 2,000 new blood cancer cases annually. Dr. Somawardhana stated that an estimated 15,000 to 18,000 patients are currently living with blood cancers nationwide. A critical shortage of medical professionals exists, with only four specialist doctors available across Sri Lanka to provide treatment for these patients. These remarks were made during an awareness program organized by a union of bone marrow transplant survivors, aimed at public education and patient care.