Health experts have expressed concern over the rising prevalence of diabetes in Sri Lanka’s Western Province, where one in every five people is now affected.
Specialist Dr. Manilka Sumanatilleke of the Sri Lanka Medical Association (SLMA) attributed the surge largely to excessive sugar consumption. He noted that, on average, Sri Lankans consume 25 to 30 kilograms of sugar annually, with children consuming up to 20 teaspoons of sugar per day.
The SLMA highlighted that non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure now account for 80% of all deaths in the country, with cases increasingly being detected among children.
The association has urged the public to reduce sugar and salt intake and emphasized the need for immediate lifestyle changes to protect future generations.
