Prof. Ruwanthi Perera, Consultant Paediatrician at the Colombo South Teaching Hospital in Kalubowila, has raised serious concerns over the growing number of accidents involving children.
Speaking at a press briefing organised by the Health Promotion Bureau in line with National Accident Prevention Week, Prof. Perera said Sri Lanka ranks high among South Asian countries in terms of childhood accident rates.
“Many of these incidents are the result of ignorance and experimentation,” she said, adding that national data shows a troubling rise in accident-related injuries among children.
Prof. Perera identified two particularly vulnerable age groups – young children prone to injuries from unintentional experimentation, and adolescents aged 12 to 14 – who often engage in risky behaviour as they navigate curioisity and independence.
She noted that the most common accidents include falls, cuts, and burns—injuries that are often preventable with timely intervention, education, and adult supervision.
“Healthcare services cater to children up to the age of 16. Prevention begins at home, and parents must be empowered with the knowledge to keep their children safe,” Prof. Perera stressed.
She called for stronger public education efforts to reduce preventable childhood injuries and foster a culture of safety at home, in schools, and in the wider community.
Leave a comment