Proposal submitted to create a tobacco-free Generation Alpha

Colombo, April 30 (Daily Mirror) - A concept paper proposing to make all children born after 2010 (Alpha) a tobacco-free generation has been handed over to the Minister of Health and Mass Media, Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa.

The proposal, prepared by the National Authority on Tobacco and Alcohol (NATA), outlines a scientifically backed programme aimed at freeing future generations from tobacco-related products. It includes recommendations under the “Tobacco-Free Generation” concept and was officially submitted to the Ministry for necessary legal action.

The document was presented by NATA Chairman, Dr. Ananda Ratnayake, and L.L. Amila Isuru of the Faculty of Medicine at Rajarata University, during a recent meeting at the Ministry. 

Alongside the concept paper, recommendations to amend the existing NATA Act were also submitted. 
Authorities emphasized two key measures to reduce the social and health burden caused by tobacco and alcohol: updating current regulations and introducing restrictions to deny access to tobacco products for individuals born after a specified year.

Minister Jayatissa welcomed the initiative, noting that tobacco and alcohol pose significant barriers to ensuring a healthier future for children. He also acknowledged the efforts taken to restrict access to such products and was briefed on the proposed legal amendments.

Meanwhile, Dr. Ratnayake highlighted that nearly 80 percent of deaths in Sri Lanka are due to non-communicable diseases, with tobacco and alcohol being major contributing factors. He added that around 22,000 deaths annually in Sri Lanka are linked to these substances.

Globally, tobacco use causes nearly 8 million deaths each year, including deaths from direct use and second-hand smoke exposure. Alcohol consumption also contributes to a significant number of deaths and health complications worldwide.