The Ministry of Health has revealed that only 21% of diabetic patients in Sri Lanka receive continuous medical treatment, while just 25% of individuals diagnosed with high blood pressure are under regular care.
Health Minister Nalinda Jayatissa disclosed the figures during the launch of a special medical clinic programme across 24 prison hospitals, which commenced yesterday at the Welikada Prison Research and Training Centre. The initiative will be conducted island-wide until 16 August.
Addressing the event, Minister Jayatissa underscored the growing prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the country. He noted that Sri Lanka’s health system is equipped to manage and eliminate both communicable and non-communicable illnesses, but warned that poor dietary and lifestyle habits are driving the rise in NCDs.
The Minister stressed the critical need for uninterrupted treatment in managing chronic diseases. According to the Ministry’s NCD division, while health screenings attract a significant number of women, encouraging participation among men and professionals remains a key challenge.
