Nearly 15% of Sri Lankan adults are living with diabetes, while approximately 40% of those affected may be unaware that they have the condition, according to a leading medical specialist.
The figures were highlighted as Sri Lanka joins the international community in observing World Diabetes Day today (November 14).
Dr. Manilka Sumanatilleke, President of the Diabetes Association of Sri Lanka and Consultant Endocrinologist at the National Hospital of Sri Lanka, said diabetes has become an increasingly serious public health concern.
Speaking during an event, he said the situation is particularly concerning in Colombo, where approximately one in four people is affected by diabetes.
He also warned that increasing childhood obesity could lead to more young people developing Type 2 diabetes, stressing the importance of healthy eating habits and lifestyle changes.
According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), an estimated 1.6 million Sri Lankan adults aged between 20 and 79 were living with diabetes in 2024.
The IDF estimated that approximately 603,000 of them, or 37.7%, had not been diagnosed.
Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs when the body cannot produce sufficient insulin or cannot effectively use the insulin it produces, resulting in elevated blood sugar levels.
If poorly controlled, the condition can cause serious complications, including heart disease, strokes, kidney failure, vision loss, nerve damage and lower-limb amputations.
Medical experts say early detection and proper management can significantly reduce the risk of complications.
Common warning signs include frequent urination, excessive thirst, unexplained weight loss, fatigue and blurred vision. However, Type 2 diabetes can develop gradually without noticeable symptoms.
Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity, following a balanced diet and avoiding tobacco use can help reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes.
World Diabetes Day is observed annually on November 14 to raise awareness of the growing global impact of diabetes.
The theme for 2026, “Early action on diabetes”, focuses on improving early diagnosis, expanding access to treatment and encouraging preventive measures.
Health authorities and medical professionals are urging people, particularly those with risk factors such as obesity or a family history of diabetes, to undergo appropriate screening and seek medical advice. (Newswire)
