What Should I Do?

Practical step-by-step guides to help you navigate this journey. Choose your situation below.

I Think I Have Symptoms

Don't panic. Here's what to do next.

  1. 1
    Don't panic

    Most symptoms have non-cancer causes. Stay calm and take action.

  2. 2
    Write down your symptoms

    Note when they started, how often they occur, and any changes you've noticed.

  3. 3
    Visit your doctor or nearest MOH office

    See your GP, or visit the nearest Medical Officer of Health for an initial assessment.

  4. 4
    Ask for a referral if needed

    If your doctor suspects something, ask for a referral to a specialist or Cancer Early Detection Centre (CEDC). Alternatively, you can directly consult our specialist, Dr. Shama Goonatillake, even without a referral.

  5. 5
    Know your nearest Cancer Early Detection Centre

    Sri Lanka has CEDCs across the country. Find the one nearest to you through the NCCP website.

  6. 6
    Get screened

    Early detection saves lives. Mammograms, colonoscopies, and other screening tests catch cancer early when it's most treatable.

I've Been Diagnosed

Take a deep breath. Let's work through this together.

  1. 1
    Take time to process

    It's okay to feel overwhelmed, scared, or angry. These are normal reactions. Give yourself permission to feel.

  2. 2
    Ask your doctor to explain clearly

    Understand your cancer type, stage, and what it means. Don't be afraid to ask questions - write them down beforehand.

  3. 3
    Consider a second opinion

    It's your right to seek a second opinion. Many patients do this and doctors understand.

  4. 4
    Understand your treatment options

    Learn about surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Ask about side effects and timelines.

  5. 5
    Contact the NCCP helpline

    Call +94 112 850 252 for guidance on treatment centres, financial support, and your rights as a patient.

  6. 6
    Build your support network

    Tell trusted family members and friends. You don't have to face this alone.

  7. 7
    Learn about your rights

    Understand what government support programmes you qualify for, including free treatment at government hospitals.

  8. 8
    Take care of your mental health

    Consider counselling or support groups. Mental health is just as important as physical treatment.

I'm Supporting Someone

Your support matters more than you know.

  1. 1
    Learn about their cancer type

    Understanding the diagnosis helps you provide better support and reduces your own anxiety.

  2. 2
    Accompany them to appointments

    Having someone there helps with remembering information and provides emotional comfort.

  3. 3
    Help with practical needs

    Transport to hospital, meals, household tasks, childcare - practical help is incredibly valuable.

  4. 4
    Listen without trying to fix

    Sometimes they just need someone to listen. You don't need to have all the answers.

  5. 5
    Take care of yourself too

    Caregiver burnout is real. Make sure you're eating, sleeping, and getting your own support.

  6. 6
    Connect with caregiver support groups

    Talk to others who understand what you're going through. You're not alone in this either.

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