Tobacco-free Sri Lanka: Can post-2010 generation be smoke-free?

Colombo, May 1 (Daily Mirror) - Can Sri Lanka create a tobacco-free generation among children born after 2010? A new proposal submitted to Health and Mass Media Minister Dr Nalinda Jayatissa aims to do just that.

The concept paper, prepared by the National Authority on Tobacco and Alcohol (NATA), outlines a science-backed programme to prevent future generations from accessing tobacco products. It has been handed over to the Ministry for legal consideration.

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

In addition to the proposal, recommendations to amend the existing NATA Act were also submitted, focusing on stricter regulations and measures to block access to tobacco products for those born after a specified year.

Welcoming the move, Minister Jayatissa said tobacco and alcohol remain key obstacles to ensuring a healthier future for children, and was briefed on the proposed legal reforms.

Dr Ratnayake noted that nearly 80 per cent of deaths in Sri Lanka are due to non-communicable diseases, with tobacco and alcohol among the main contributors. He added that around 22,000 deaths annually are linked to these substances.

Globally, tobacco use kills nearly 8 million people each year, including through second-hand smoke, while alcohol consumption continues to drive a significant share of deaths and health complications.