November 15, Colombo (LNW): Nearly one in five people in Sri Lanka is estimated to be living with diabetes, raising concerns about the growing impact of non-communicable diseases on the country’s healthcare system.
Deputy Minister of Health Dr Hansaka Wijemuni disclosed that around 19 per cent of the population has been identified as having diabetes, adding that the actual prevalence could be considerably higher due to undiagnosed cases.
He made these observations at a programme held in Colombo to mark World Diabetes Day, where he highlighted the urgent need to strengthen preventive healthcare and encourage greater public awareness of chronic illnesses.
According to the Deputy Minister, diabetes and high blood pressure have become increasingly significant health concerns in Sri Lanka. A major obstacle to tackling these conditions is that many people remain unaware of their health problems, often assuming they are perfectly healthy simply because they have not experienced any noticeable symptoms.
Dr Wijemuni emphasised that routine health screenings should become a priority, regardless of whether individuals experience signs of illness. He noted that identifying diabetes and hypertension before they develop into serious conditions would significantly improve treatment outcomes and reduce the likelihood of long-term complications.
He also cautioned that poorly managed diabetes could eventually lead to severe medical conditions requiring complex and costly interventions. What could initially be controlled through affordable medication and appropriate lifestyle changes may develop into a condition requiring major surgical treatment, including heart bypass procedures.
The Deputy Minister pointed out that the consequences extend beyond individual patients, as the rising demand for expensive medical care places additional pressure on national healthcare resources. He therefore described disease prevention and early intervention as essential not only for public health but also for the country’s economic sustainability.
He added that the Government had allocated substantial funding in this year’s Budget towards raising awareness of non-communicable diseases, with greater emphasis on educating the public about prevention, screening and disease management.
Meanwhile, the Sri Lanka Diabetes Association has also raised concerns over the widespread prevalence of the condition.
Association President and Consultant Physician Dr Manilka Sumanatilleke has estimated that more than 15 per cent of Sri Lanka’s adult population is affected by diabetes.
The situation appears particularly concerning in the Colombo District, where approximately one in four adults is reported to be living with the condition.
The latest figures highlight the growing importance of regular medical assessments, healthier lifestyles and greater public participation in preventive healthcare, as Sri Lanka faces an increasingly challenging battle against diabetes and other chronic diseases.