Skin diseases have emerged as a serious health concern in Sri Lanka, with specialists reporting an increase in the number of patients seeking treatment at dermatology clinics.

Consultant Dermatologist Dr. Nayani Madarasinghe noted that there has been a significant rise in patients visiting clinics for various skin-related conditions.

Speaking at a media briefing held at the Health Promotion Bureau, Dr. Madarasinghe said skin diseases are among the most common health issues globally and have become a major public health concern.

She said that while Sri Lanka lacks comprehensive data on the prevalence of skin diseases, dermatologists have identified them as a serious health issue. She also cautioned that a lack of awareness about proper treatment methods often leads patients to seek inappropriate remedies, which may worsen their conditions.

Dr. Madarasinghe further noted that the misconception that skin diseases are contagious causes unnecessary psychological distress among patients.

Meanwhile, Consultant Dermatologist Dr. Nuwangika Marcellin warned that the increasing use of medication without medical advice for fungal infections has created difficulties in controlling the spread of such conditions.

She said Tinea (ringworm), a fungal skin infection spreading in Sri Lanka, accounts for around 20% of patients visiting dermatology clinics.
According to Dr. Marcellin, the misuse of antifungal medication has contributed to drug resistance, making infections more difficult to treat and requiring patients to undergo longer treatment periods, including oral medication.