02/02/2026
Sri Lanka’s low global health ranking is largely driven by lifestyle related factors rather than access alone. High rates of stroke and ischemic heart disease point to poor dietary patterns, excess salt and sugar intake, low physical activity, rising stress levels, and late detection of chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. Urban lifestyles, long screen hours, irregular meals, smoking, alcohol consumption, and limited focus on preventive healthcare have gradually weakened overall population health, even as life expectancy improves.
The shift must begin with prevention over treatment. Public health education, workplace wellness programs, school level nutrition awareness, and stronger investment in preventive healthcare can collectively reduce lifestyle disease burden. Small, consistent habit changes at an individual level, supported by policy and healthcare systems, are key to turning longer lives into healthier ones.
