The National Cancer Hospital in Maharagama today categorically denied reports that cancer was spreading in the vicinity of the hospital as a result of the hospital’s radiation facilities stating that there was no scientific evidence to show that there was a cancer threat.

Hospital Director Dr. Kanishka Karunaratne said that tests were carried out on the soil and water outside the hospital premises but that there had been no trace of radiation materials. “There has been no evidence to prove that there was an increased spread of cancer,” Dr. Karunaratne said.

Meanwhile sources said that a Pradeshiya Saba politician in the Maharagama area had spread the cancer rumours as part of a plan to purchase a property in vicinity of the hospital.

The source said the local politician had spread the cancer rumours to lower the demand for the property and thereby compel the land owners in the area to bring down the price of their property. The politician in question had been eyeing a large property in the area for a while, sources said.

“The hospital has a central radiation unit that is well protected. The cancer reports are rumours spread for the welfare of certain local politicians in the area,” a source said.

A committee headed by Health Ministry Epidemiology Unit chief Dr. Paba Palihawadana had been appointed to inquire reports pertaining to a cancer threat in areas surrounding the hospital.

Cancer Hospital MRI Director Dr. Anil Samaranayake said a thorough scientific study will be carried out to study the reports.  (Olindhi Jayasundere)