The Sri Lanka Medical Association (SLMA) has urged the government to implement a policy banning tobacco consumption for individuals born after 2010, in commemoration of World No Tobacco Day.
In a press release, the SLMA highlighted that the “Tobacco-Free Generation” policy aims to protect future generations from tobacco-related harm by prohibiting the sale of tobacco to anyone born after a specified year.
The SLMA stated that this initiative is grounded in ethical principles and human rights, prioritising the health and well-being of children and future generations.
The policy aligns with international frameworks such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), which advocate for protecting vulnerable groups—especially children—from the harmful effects of tobacco.
According to the SLMA, this initiative will not only reduce tobacco-related diseases but also result in significant social and economic benefits, including lower healthcare costs and a healthier, more productive workforce.
The National Authority on Tobacco and Alcohol Act (2006) of Sri Lanka also supports the objectives of this concept, strengthening the legal foundation for such a policy.
The SLMA emphasized that urgent government action is needed to safeguard the next generation from preventable health risks and reduce the burden of tobacco on the nation.
