Sri Lanka (Commonwealth Union)_ Sri Lanka’s growing cancer rates have led to increased proactive measures to combat this escalating health crisis. According to the statistics, in the past few decades, the rate of cancer in Sri Lanka has climbed from 13,372 cases in 2005 to a staggering 31,848 cases in 2019, which is a massive 138 percent increase. This trend is not unique to Sri Lanka, as global cancer rates have followed a similar trajectory. Recognized health authorities such as the World Health Organization and prominent international organizations have unequivocally emphasized the pivotal role of early cancer detection in the ongoing battle against this relentless disease.
The importance of early detection cannot be overstated, given its capacity to yield more effective treatment outcomes and enhance prospects for recovery. In this context, a promising breakthrough has emerged in the form of Opthascan, an innovative non-invasive screening application designed for a spectrum of internal cancers. Distinguishing itself as a pioneering, real-time, on-demand screening solution, Opthascan heralds a ray of hope in the fight against cancer. Notably, Opthascan has introduced a groundbreaking technology to South Asia, harnessing the capabilities of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning for non-invasive cancer detection. Remarkably, this product achieves an impressive diagnostic accuracy rate of over 98 percent by analyzing a mere photograph of a patient’s iris. Its scope encompasses a range of internal cancers, including lung, prostate, breast, uterine, and cervical cancers.
After undergoing rigorous clinical trials, Opthascan has obtained approval and accreditation from the European Union, and it is already in use in four European countries and select regions in Africa. Notably, the solution adheres to GDPR compliance standards, ensuring the integrity of data and robust security measures to fortify it against breaches. Currently, Opthascan is operational in Sri Lanka, with a concerted effort to democratize this transformative technology in collaboration with the government. This joint endeavor constitutes a significant contribution to Sri Lanka’s overarching campaign against cancer.
The profound significance of early identification lies in its potential to expedite timely medical interventions and the implementation of effective treatment protocols. According to Bren Sambunathan, Opthascan heralds a new era of hope, where breakthrough technology converges with the collective determination to reduce the impact of cancer on society. Through Opthascan’s steadfast commitment to early detection and its consequential transformative potential, the future holds promise in the pursuit of a healthier, cancer-resilient Sri Lanka. He said, “Opthascan ushers in a new era of hope, where cutting-edge technology aligns with the collective determination to alleviate the impact of cancer on our society.”
