World · Sri Lanka Bureau
Sri Lanka marks World No Alcohol Day amid health crisis
Sri Lanka is observing World No Alcohol Day as health authorities highlight the devastating toll of alcohol and tobacco use in the country. National officials say over 22,000 Sri Lankans die annually from substance-related causes.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
Sri Lanka joined the global observance of World No Alcohol Day on Tuesday, with the National Authority on Tobacco and Alcohol (NATA) drawing attention to the public health crisis posed by alcohol and tobacco consumption.
Dr. Ananda Rathnayake, chairman of NATA, underscored the scale of the problem, noting that more than 22,000 people die annually in Sri Lanka due to tobacco and alcohol use. The figure highlights the significant burden these substances place on the nation's health system and society at large.
In response to the growing concern, NATA has been spearheading prevention initiatives designed to discourage alcohol addiction and reduce its social and health impacts. The authority's programmes aim to reach vulnerable populations and provide support for those struggling with substance dependence.
World No Alcohol Day, observed annually, serves as a platform for countries to mobilize efforts against alcohol-related harm and promote public awareness about the risks associated with alcohol consumption.