SWA donates cancer detection kits to Apeksha

The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation Women’s Association (SWA), Sri Lanka Chapter has donated specialised Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) Mutations Detection Kits to the Genetic Laboratory of the National Cancer Institute, Apeksha Hospital in Maharagama, strengthening the Hospital’s capacity to diagnose and treat lung and bowel cancer patients.

The donation was formally handed over during a ceremony held at the Hospital Director’s office.

The Hospital authorities said that the kits would directly support the diagnosis of genetic mutations linked to certain cancers, enabling more accurate and targeted treatment. The contribution is expected to enhance the Hospital’s diagnostic capabilities in genetic testing.

Speaking at the event, the SWA Sri Lanka Chapter’s President for last year (2025), Farida Alibhoy said the initiative reflected the organisation’s continued commitment to humanitarian service and community welfare. “Cancer affects not only the patient but also their families and communities. Through this contribution, the Association stands in solidarity with those fighting cancer through targeted treatment and to help and support the invaluable work being done by medical professionals through informed diagnosis,” she said.

The Director of the Apeksha Hospital, Dr S.A.A.N. Jayasekara expressed appreciation for what he described as a timely and meaningful contribution. He noted that such donations play a vital role in advancing diagnostic facilities, particularly in the field of genetic testing for cancer, and contribute to strengthening overall medical services at the Institute.

Funds for the donation were raised through two fundraising events organised by the Association in May and October 2025, in addition to contributions from members, individual donors and corporate sponsors.

Source - The Morning