Asia

Top 5 Cancer Hospitals in Sri Lanka

26 February 2025

Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, and Sri Lanka is no exception. In recent years, the country has made significant strides in improving cancer care. With a growing number of healthcare professionals and institutions dedicated to oncology, Sri Lanka is providing better access to diagnostic, treatment, and support services for cancer patients. This article will provide a detailed overview of some of the top cancer hospitals in Sri Lanka, shedding light on their specialties and the services they offer to patients fighting cancer.

1. National Cancer Institute (Apeksha Hospital) – Maharagama

Located in Maharagama, the National Cancer Institute (commonly known as Apeksha Hospital) is Sri Lanka’s leading hospital for cancer care. It stands as a beacon for comprehensive oncology services. Apeksha Hospital is well-known for its advanced diagnostic technologies and treatment services. With a dedicated staff of experienced oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and support teams, this facility provides a wide range of services tailored to meet the needs of cancer patients.

Specialties:

Chemotherapy: The hospital offers various chemotherapy options, carefully tailored to individual patient needs.
Radiotherapy: Apeksha Hospital is equipped with the latest radiation therapy technologies for treating different types of cancer.
Surgery: Surgical oncology is a core area of focus, with highly skilled surgeons performing complex operations.

This hospital provides a holistic approach, addressing the physical, emotional, and psychological needs of patients. With specialized departments for pediatric oncology, breast cancer, and other prevalent forms of cancer, it stands out as the prime destination for cancer care in the country.

2. Teaching Hospital, Kandy

Situated in the historical city of Kandy, the Teaching Hospital is another major institution offering cancer care in Sri Lanka. As a large government hospital, it provides medical oncology services to the population in the central region. Kandy’s Teaching Hospital is integral to the national healthcare system, catering not only to the local population but also to patients from surrounding areas.

Specialties:

Medical Oncology Services: The hospital specializes in providing cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and targeted therapies. The medical oncology department is known for its experienced oncologists, who work closely with patients to design personalized treatment plans.
Cancer Screening and Diagnosis: Early detection is key to successful cancer treatment. The Teaching Hospital in Kandy provides diagnostic services, including imaging and laboratory tests to detect various cancers at their early stages.

While the hospital does not specialize in all forms of cancer care, it plays a vital role in offering accessible treatments to those in need. The hospital is also actively involved in medical research, helping improve treatment outcomes for Sri Lankan cancer patients.

3. Colombo South Teaching Hospital (Kalubowila Hospital)

Located in Colombo, Kalubowila Hospital is another prominent institution offering oncology services in Sri Lanka. The hospital provides a range of treatments, including chemotherapy and surgery, for patients diagnosed with cancer. Though not as specialized as the National Cancer Institute, Kalubowila Hospital plays a significant role in cancer care in Colombo and its surrounding areas.

Specialties:

Cancer Treatment Services: The hospital offers various cancer treatments, including medical oncology, surgery, and radiation therapy.
Supportive Care: Kalubowila Hospital also focuses on providing palliative care to cancer patients, ensuring they receive the necessary relief from pain and other symptoms.

Kalubowila Hospital’s proximity to the capital city makes it a popular choice for those living in urban areas. The hospital has made substantial investments in improving its facilities, including new diagnostic equipment and oncology-specific treatment services.

4. Jaffna Teaching Hospital

In the northern part of Sri Lanka, Jaffna Teaching Hospital provides essential cancer care services for the region. Although the hospital offers a more basic range of oncology treatments compared to larger hospitals like Apeksha or Kandy, it plays a crucial role in ensuring that cancer patients in the northern provinces receive necessary care.

Specialties:

Basic Cancer Care Services: Jaffna Teaching Hospital offers chemotherapy, surgery, and basic diagnostic services for cancer patients. While it may not have the specialized treatment options available in larger hospitals, it serves as an essential resource for local patients.
Cancer Surgery: The hospital has a dedicated surgical team that performs cancer-related surgeries, providing relief for patients diagnosed with various cancers.

Jaffna Teaching Hospital is a critical part of the healthcare infrastructure in the north. It bridges the gap in cancer care for rural populations, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for basic treatment.

5. Karapitiya Teaching Hospital (Galle)

Located in Galle, Karapitiya Teaching Hospital is a well-established medical institution that offers various healthcare services, including cancer care. Although the hospital focuses on medical oncology, it also provides some surgical oncology treatments, and the hospital is equipped with chemotherapy and radiotherapy facilities.

Specialties:

Medical Oncology Services: Karapitiya is known for its medical oncology services, particularly chemotherapy. It provides cancer treatment options for a wide variety of cancers.
Palliative Care: The hospital offers palliative care services for patients with advanced cancer, ensuring comfort and relief from symptoms.

Although not as extensive as other hospitals in the country, Karapitiya Teaching Hospital serves as an essential resource for cancer patients in the southern region of Sri Lanka. Its emphasis on both oncology and palliative care makes it a valuable facility for managing all stages of cancer.

Improving Cancer Care in Sri Lanka

Cancer care in Sri Lanka has come a long way in recent years, but challenges remain. Many patients still face difficulties accessing advanced cancer treatment, especially in rural areas. Efforts to improve the availability of healthcare facilities, increase the number of trained oncologists, and promote early cancer detection are essential steps toward better cancer care nationwide.

Hospitals like the National Cancer Institute and Teaching Hospital, Kandy, are already doing remarkable work in offering high-quality treatment. However, expanding the capacity and specialization of other institutions, such as Colombo South Teaching Hospital and Karapitiya, will play a crucial role in improving the cancer care landscape in Sri Lanka.

Conclusion

Sri Lanka has made significant strides in its cancer care infrastructure, thanks to hospitals like the National Cancer Institute, Teaching Hospital Kandy, and Kalubowila Hospital. These hospitals are crucial in ensuring that Sri Lankans have access to the medical services they need to fight cancer. However, continued investment in healthcare facilities, technology, and research is essential to ensure that cancer care continues to improve in the country.

For patients, understanding which hospitals specialize in different forms of cancer treatment is key to finding the best care. Whether seeking basic treatments or advanced therapies, these hospitals provide a wide range of services designed to help patients navigate their cancer journey.