The Ministry of Health in Sri Lanka has reported an increase in the percentage of underweight school children from 21% last year to 19.5% this year. In addition, the Family Health Bureau has observed a rise in obesity among school children, which has increased from 1.4% to 2.7%.
According to the Family Health Bureau, the economic challenges faced in recent times have contributed to the inadequate nutrition of children, leading to an increase in the number of underweight children. The lack of access to proper nutrition has become a concerning issue.
Dr. Chithramalee De Silva, the Director of the Family Health Bureau, highlighted the importance of raising awareness about the nutritional status of children, especially in light of School Health Promotion Month. This annual event aims to focus on the well-being and health of school-aged children.
The theme for this year’s School Health Promotion Month is “Suwa diviyai – Sathutu sithayi,”- “A healthy life – A happy mind.” Dr. Chithramalee De Silva emphasized that parents play a significant role in ensuring that their children receive proper nutrition and called upon them to fulfill this responsibility.
Addressing the nutritional needs of school children is essential for their physical and mental development, and efforts to combat both underweight and obesity are critical for the well-being of the younger generation in Sri Lanka.
