Sri Lanka Cancer Society becomes centennial charity partner for AIA Insurance

Saturday, 25 May 2019 00:10 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

In honour of completing 100 years of protecting people all over Asia, AIA Insurance Sri Lanka, announced a special collaboration with the Sri Lanka Cancer Society (SLCS).

With a steadfast commitment to helping people live healthier, longer, better lives, AIA signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Sri Lanka Cancer Society, pledging to donate Rs. 100 for every new policy sold in 2019. The funds will be used for treatment, prevention and management of cancer, which is a rapidly-growing concern in Sri Lanka.

AIA CEO Pankaj Banerjee explained: “Non-Communicable Diseases, such as cancer, are a very real problem in Sri Lanka and are responsible for over 75% of deaths, which is well above the global rate of 63%. As a company that prioritizes making a positive difference in the community’s health and wellness, it is our responsibility to extend our company’s legacy to make a meaningful difference to the community we serve.”

He added: “Cancer is one of the nation’s leading public health concerns which needs specialised treatment and more so, a dedicated care and support system for the patients and their families. According to Sri Lanka’s national cancer incidence data in 2011, there were 17,482 newly-confirmed cases of cancer and when a cumulative risk of developing cancer before the age of 74 is considered, one in every 10 people (both male and female) have a risk of developing cancer during their lifetime.

“That is why it is critical that we support the organisations that provide direct care and support for patients who are undergoing this ordeal while doing everything possible to ensure they get the best support, both medically and emotionally. It means a lot to us to make this significant donation to the SLCS with the confidence that the funds will be used in the best possible way to support many Sri Lankans fighting cancer.”

SLCS President Asoka Jayasinghe thanked AIA for this initiative: “The Sri Lanka Cancer Society’s mission is to provide the utmost care, treatment and relief to countless cancer patients in Sri Lanka and we are the pioneer organisation for cancer control in the country. Regardless of cultural, social or ideological background we are committed to provide any cancer patient with the quality of life they deserve and the protection and security they require. We are ever grateful to AIA for joining our effort to provide the best care needed to patients while creating public awareness that cancer can be prevented and even cured with early detection and treatment. We have already received a significant contribution for Q1 from AIA and it is reassuring to have a company of such stature supporting us and giving strength to pursue our efforts.”