September 11, Colombo (LNW): A concerning trend in the health profile of Sri Lanka’s police force has prompted the government to initiate a dedicated mobile medical programme aimed at tackling the rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) among state employees.
Health and Media Minister Dr Nalinda Jayatissa, speaking at the inaugural session of the Arogya mobile health clinic in the Gampaha District yesterday (10), revealed that police officers account for the highest proportion of NCD cases within the public sector.
According to the Minister, nearly a third of all reported NCD cases among state workers are from the police force, which comprises approximately 84,000 personnel.
“These officers shoulder immense responsibilities and work under high-stress conditions. Sadly, we are seeing too many lives lost while on active duty due to preventable illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension,” he said.
The Arogya initiative—rolled out under the broader Healthy Sri Lanka campaign—aims to offer regular and accessible health screenings to police officers. The programme includes a range of services such as medical consultations, dental and eye check-ups, blood sugar and cholesterol testing, psychological counselling, nutritional guidance, and even ayurvedic consultations. Officers found to be at risk will be referred for further treatment at major government hospitals, including the Colombo National Hospital and Negombo Hospital.
The first round of clinics saw participation from over 600 officers across Kelaniya, Gampaha, and Negombo police divisions. Medical professionals, including specialists and nurses from prominent hospitals, volunteered their services for the day-long event.
Minister Jayatissa confirmed that the mobile clinic programme will operate throughout the week for public sector employees and their families, with plans to reach remote communities during weekends. The goal, he said, is not only to safeguard the health of public servants but also to bring essential healthcare services closer to those who may otherwise lack access.
