The Cabinet of Ministers green lighted publishing the revised national policy and strategic framework for the prevention and control of chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the Government Gazette and implementing it.

Speaking at the post-Cabinet meeting media briefing Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Bandula Gunawardena disclosed yesterday that around 120,000 deaths are reported annually due to chronic heart disease, stroke, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases and diabetes.

Use of tobacco, unhealthy alcohol consumption, obesity, high blood pressure, high blood sugar and high blood cholesterol are identified as the main contributing factors for these diseases.

Considering the new data and facts into account, he said a revised policy was drafted in consultation with all relevant parties by evaluating the first policy published in 2009.

The proposal to this effect submitted by Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers at its meeting on Monday. 

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