Sri Lanka substance abuse linked to 80–100 daily deaths

An estimated 80 to 100 people die every day in Sri Lanka due to alcohol and substance abuse, according to Dr. Manoj Fernando, Dean of the Faculty of Applied Sciences at Rajarata University.

Speaking at a press conference for the “A Nation United – National Drive” (Rataama Ekatata) campaign launched by the Sri Lanka Police, Dr. Fernando noted that smoking is the leading contributor to these deaths. Alcohol consumption is estimated to cause between 10 and 15 deaths daily, while illicit drug use is estimated to account for another 10 to 15 deaths per day.

Dr. Fernando highlighted that legal substances often act as a gateway to illegal drugs. He noted evidence suggesting that many heroin users previously smoked, and many cannabis users had prior history with alcohol or cigarettes. He emphasized that the consequences of substance abuse extend beyond individual mortality, impacting families, communities, and the national economy.