Health experts are raising alarms about the high rates of diabetes in Sri Lanka's Western Province, where one in every five people is affected. 

According to Specialist Dr. Manilka Sumanatilleke of the Sri Lanka Medical Association (SLMA), this is a direct result of excessive sugar consumption.

The SLMA noted that non-communicable diseases now account for 80% of all deaths in the country. Dr. Sumanatilleke stated that on average, a person consumes 25 to 30 kg of sugar per year, while children consume up to 20 teaspoons of sugar daily. 

The association warns that this high intake is contributing to a rise in conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes, even among children, urging a reduction in sugar and salt consumption to protect future generations.