Background Injuries remain the leading cause of hospitalisation among Sri Lankans resulting long term disability, death and tragic loss to families. In 2005, almost 9000 deaths were reported as a result of injuries and the cost for injury management had been estimated as 14.16 6 billion Rupees.

Purpose The National policy and strategic framework on injury prevention and management was developed to improve the injury prevention efforts through collaborative action to save thousands of lives and billions of rupees.

Methods The development of national injury prevention policy in Sri Lanka began in 2004 as a response to recommendation made by the National Committee for Prevention of Injuries (NCPI), the advisory body for injury prevention and control at the Ministry of Health Sri Lanka. A comprehensive situation assessment was done to assess the epidemiology of injuries, set priorities and develop interventions. The policy was initially drafted following consultative meetings with government officials, experts and stakeholders engaged in injury prevention.

Results The final version of the policy document was formulated based on the recommendations made by the NCPI considering public comments and awaiting for approval and endorsement from the parliament of Sri Lanka. The policy frame work addresses primary, secondary and tertiary prevention of unintentional injuries through six strategic areas.

Significance National policy and strategic framework on injury prevention and management reflects the countries commitment to improve the injury prevention efforts through collaborative action.