Smoking increases among SL women : Risks highlighted

Specialist Doctor Saman Iddagoda says there is a significant increase in smoking among women, compared to men in Sri Lanka.

Addressing a media briefing at the Health Promotion Bureau (HBP), he said that compared to the last 10-15 years, there is a reduction in smoking among men. 

Doctor Saman Iddagoda further said there was a high rate of young women being diagnosed with lung cancer at present, due to smoking.

Pointing out that smoking was a direct cause of lung cancer, he advised the public, especially women, to be cautious and mindful of the effects of smoking. 

He also warned that if an individual stops smoking today, he faces a risk of being diagnosed with lung cancer within the next 10-15 years.

Doctor Saman Iddagoda further revealed that other smoking items, apart from cigarettes, also contribute to lung cancer.