Current status and future prospects of radiation oncology in Sri Lanka

Purpose: To investigate the current status of radiation treatment facilities in Sri Lanka and to explore future possibilities required to adequately address increasing cancer care. Methods: Hospitals with radiation therapy facilities from across the country were identified. Data pertaining to the types of radiotherapy equipment, radiation oncology staffing, and radiotherapy education were collected by onsite visit, conversation over the phone, and from other available cancer resources in Sri Lanka. Results: Seven government hospitals and two private sectors were identified with radiation therapy facilities over nine provinces in Sri Lanka for 21.4 million people. At present, there are twenty megavoltage machines (MVMs) operating. This is 0.93 MVMs per one million people. After completion of proposed radiotherapy facilities, it will be able to provide 1.21 MVMs per million people. In addition, multidisciplinary staffing has also been identified as inadequate. Conclusions: There is a significant shortfall in radiotherapy facilities and workforce in Sri Lanka. The current and future scope of radiation facilities is sub-optimal compared to internationally recognized guidelines.