Dr. Mahipala said between 15,000 and 20,000 new cancer patients are being detected every year from Sri Lanka.

The majority of the newly detected cancer patients are over 50 years and the main causes for cancer are smoking, alcohol, lack of exercises and unhealthy food habits, he said.

Dr. Mahipala said one third of cancers can be totally prevented.

One third of cancers can be cured if detected early and another one third of cancer patients can lead a comfortable life with medical treatment. The most common cancer among Sri Lankan males is oral cancer and the most common cancer among women is breast cancer, he said.

Dr. Mahipala said Rs. three billion was allocated from the Health Budget last year for cancer treatment, drugs and management.

Funds have been allocated to develop cancer units attached to Kandy, Karapitiya and Thelippale state hospitals, he said.