Serious drug shortage at Cancer Hospital

By Rathindra Kuruwita

There is a serious shortage of cancer drugs at the Maharagama Apeksha Hospital, Paediatric Oncologist Dr. Sanjeewa Gunasekera said yesterday.

Addressing the media, he said that they were now managing with donations from philanthropists.

“If anyone wants to help us please contact the hospital director. We have a special unit to coordinate with philanthropists,” he said.

Meanwhile Dr. Suraj Perera said that increasing number of children are detected with cancer. About 900 children are identified each year as cancer patients, he said.

“Around 250 children die from cancer each year. Most of these can be saved with early detection,” he said.