News & Info

A capacity-building workshop on how to conduct an effective literature review was successfully held on 25th November 2025 at the Computer Centre, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya. The session was led by Dr. Lakmini Marasinghe, the Librarian, Faculty of Medicine, and organised by the KidsToxLK Paediatric Poison Information and Research Center in collaboration with the Research Management Committee of the Faculty.

The workshop was designed to strengthen research skills among early-career clinicians and investigators, with a particular focus on conducting literature surveys for toxicology and poisoning-related reviews. Participants were introduced to essential components of a systematic search strategy, use of academic databases, effective keyword development, reference management tools, and approaches to critically appraising retrieved evidence.

A total of 30 participants, including paediatric trainees, medical officers, junior researchers, and research assistants, took part in the event. The interactive training included demonstrations, guided practice sessions, and discussions on applying rigorous research methods in paediatric toxicology.

KidsToxLK continues to promote research excellence and capacity development in the field of paediatric poisoning. This workshop marks another important step in strengthening the research ecosystem and supporting high-quality evidence generation to improve child health outcomes in Sri Lanka.

A dedicated training session on Poison Center Development was conducted on 20th November 2025 as part of the Asia Pacific Association of Medical Toxicology (APAMT) Scientific Congress in Gold Coast, Australia. The session brought together poison information specialists, toxicologists, and public health professionals from across the Asia–Pacific and African regions including South Africa, Hong Kong, New Zealand, Malaysia, India, Australia, and Sri Lanka.

Experts from several countries shared diverse experiences related to establishing and strengthening poison information services. Their contributions highlighted the importance of developing robust poison center networks to improve clinical care, surveillance, and public health responses to toxic exposures.

The event was hosted by the National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) through Work Package 5 of the Preventing Deaths from Poisoning in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) programme, led by the University of Edinburgh. The session emphasized capacity-building, workforce training, and the development of sustainable poison information systems in resource-limited settings.

Participants engaged in interactive discussions on operational models, governance structures, clinical support systems, data management, and strategies to enhance national and regional collaboration. The training also provided a platform for strengthening international partnerships aimed at reducing morbidity and mortality associated with poisoning.

Overall, the session was a valuable opportunity for knowledge exchange, supporting global efforts to enhance poison center development and improve patient safety across LMICs.

The Director of KidsToxLK, Professor Kavinda Dayasiri, delivered a research-based talk on illicit substance use among Sri Lankan teenagers at the Asia Pacific Association of Medical Toxicology Conference (APAMT 2025), held in November 2025 in Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia. The study highlighted current patterns, risk factors, and key implications for healthcare and prevention. The conference provided a valuable platform for networking, exchanging experiences, and learning from regional experts. KidsToxLK’s participation strengthened international connections and reaffirmed the centre’s commitment to improving care, awareness, and support for young people affected by substance-related harms.

KidsToxLK is honoured to have been featured in a prominent article in the Sunday Observer on 9 November 2025. The piece, titled “A lifeline for Sri Lanka’s children,” highlighted the centre’s growing role as the country’s first dedicated Paediatric Poison Information and Research Centre, based at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya. The article drew national attention to the rising burden of paediatric poisoning and snakebite, particularly in rural and underserved regions, and underscored how KidsToxLK is filling a critical gap in timely, expert toxicology support. It detailed the centre’s commitment to providing real-time guidance for healthcare workers, improving early management, and strengthening child safety through awareness and education.

Prof. Kavinda Dayasiri, Director of KidsToxLK, shared insights into the centre’s mission to ensure that every child—regardless of geography—has access to evidence-based, high-quality toxicology care. The feature also highlighted the centre’s expanding initiatives, including capacity-building programmes for medical staff, PHM-led community education, safe storage campaigns, and school-focused prevention activities. The Sunday Observer article further recognised KidsToxLK’s growing national and international collaborations, its leadership in research on paediatric poisonings and snakebites, and its broader vision to elevate toxicology practice and child health safety across Sri Lanka. This national recognition marks an important milestone for KidsToxLK, strengthening awareness of its services and reaffirming its commitment to protecting the health and wellbeing of Sri Lanka’s children. KidsToxLK expresses its sincere appreciation to the Sunday Observer for highlighting this essential work and helping bring greater visibility to the ongoing effort to safeguard children from poisoning and toxic exposures.

Research conducted by the KidsToxLK Paediatric Poison Information and Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, was showcased at the International Postgraduate Research Conference (IPRC) 2025. The study, titled “Parental knowledge, attitudes, and pre-hospital practices in paediatric snakebite management: A cross-sectional study from rural Sri Lanka,” explored critical gaps in awareness and first-aid responses among parents in high-risk rural communities.

The presentation highlighted the urgent need for community-based education and capacity-building initiatives to improve outcomes in paediatric snakebite cases. The research was well received by the academic community for its public health relevance and practical implications.

The KidsToxLK Paediatric Poison Information and Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, in collaboration with the Education, Training and Research Unit of the Ministry of Health, Sri Lanka, and the Gal Oya Nimna Clinical Society, successfully conducted a capacity-building workshop on “Community-Based Paediatric Snakebite Risk Management for Public Health Midwives” on 7th November 2025 at the Auditorium of District General Hospital, Ampara. The workshop aimed to equip Public Health Midwives (PHMs) with practical knowledge and skills to prevent and manage paediatric snakebite incidents in rural communities.

The program began with an interactive brainstorming session led by Prof. Kavinda Dayasiri, Director of KidsToxLK, setting the stage for active learning and engagement. The morning sessions featured audio-visual presentations on snake identification, first aid for snakebites, and community-based prevention strategies. This was followed by a lecture from Prof. Anjana Silva, Professor in Parasitology, Rajarata University, who shared a practical and simplified approach to identifying snakes. A tea break allowed participants to network and exchange ideas, fostering a collaborative learning environment.

The core of the workshop comprised five parallel hands-on stations, providing PHMs with practical training in essential aspects of snakebite management. Station 1, led by Prof. Kavinda Dayasiri, focused on first-aid for paediatric snakebites and avoiding harmful practices. Station 2, conducted by Mrs. Sanjeewani Paranamana, PHM, MOH Mahaoya, emphasized strategies to enhance community awareness and education. Station 3, facilitated by Dr. Dimuthu Subsinghe, Consultant Paediatrician, Ampara DGH, covered the identification of snakes and safe handling of encounters at home. Station 4, led by Dr. Chaminda Liyanage, Consultant Paediatrician, Base Hospital Diyathalawa, addressed recognition of warning signs, contacting emergency services, and arranging safe transportation. Finally, Station 5, conducted by Dr. Kasun Fernando, Medical Officer, Base Hospital Balapitiya, focused on prevention strategies and creating safer home and garden environments.

The workshop concluded with a post-course evaluation and lunch, after which participants were awarded 3.25 CPD points, accredited by the Ministry of Health, Sri Lanka. Over 75 Public Health Midwives actively participated, gaining valuable skills and knowledge that they will take back to their communities, strengthening awareness of snake identification, prevention, and first-aid management for paediatric snakebites.

This initiative marks a significant step toward enhancing community-based child safety in rural Sri Lanka and highlights the pivotal role of PHMs in delivering timely and effective interventions for snakebite emergencies, contributing to safer and healthier communities.

The Sinhala language version of a book written by Professor Kavinda Dayasiri on child safety from snakebites – practical advice for parents was launched at a capacity building workshop organized by the KidsToxLK Paediatric Poison Information and Research Center. The event was held at the District General Hospital, Ampara with the participation of public health professionals from across the district.

As part of the initiative, 100 copies of the book were distributed to Public Health Midwives (PHMs) attached to the Regional Director of Health Services (RDHS) Ampara Division. These copies will be used by PHMs to educate and empower parents in rural and underserved communities, where the risk of snakebites among children remains high. In addition, copies were also presented to the library of the District General Hospital, Ampara, ensuring wider access for healthcare workers and trainees.

The book, published by Samudra Publishers, aims to bridge critical knowledge gaps on snakebite prevention, first aid, and timely medical care for children. It provides simple, evidence-based guidance for families and community health workers alike.

Translated versions of the publication are also available in English and Tamil, supporting KidsToxLK’s mission to enhance community awareness and reduce the burden of paediatric snakebites across Sri Lanka.

The Director of KidsToxLK delivered the Dr. S. Thangavadivel Memorial Oration at the Inaugural Ceremony of the Batticaloa Medical Association Annual Academic Sessions 2025. This distinguished honor recognized his continued contributions to child and adolescent health in Sri Lanka.

In his inspiring oration, the Director highlighted critical and timely issues surrounding teenage substance abuse, school dropout, adolescent pregnancies, youth mental health, and the growing influence of social media on young lives. Drawing from research evidence, he underscored the urgent need for integrated community, educational, and healthcare responses to protect and empower Sri Lankan youth.

This moment marked not only a personal achievement but also a testament to KidsToxLK’s ongoing commitment to advancing child and adolescent health, promoting resilience, and addressing emerging health challenges across Sri Lanka.

Dr. Ajith Dissanayake, a Poison Information Specialist at KidsToxLK, participated in the two-day workshop titled “Tools for Studying Behavioral Aspects of Skin-Lightening Product (SLP) Use in Sri Lanka,” held on 29–30 October 2025 at the Galle Face Hotel, Colombo.

The workshop was organized under the Elimination of Mercury in Skin-Lightening Products (SLPs) project—an initiative of the Environmental and Occupational Health Unit of the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and the Biodiversity Research Institute (BRI), USA.

The event brought together experts from the health, environmental, and academic sectors to explore the behavioral and social factors driving the use of skin-lightening products in Sri Lanka. Sessions included group discussions and practical exercises on behavior mapping, identifying target groups, and applying the COM-B model to understand motivations and barriers influencing SLP use.

Dr. Dissanayake’s participation reflected his ongoing professional engagement in toxicology and public health initiatives. The workshop emphasized the importance of evidence-based behavioral research in shaping effective policies and interventions to promote safe beauty practices and eliminate mercury-containing cosmetic products in Sri Lanka.

Colombo, 31st October 2025 – A lead paper titled “Crisis and Care: Global Trends in Paediatric Poisoning First-Aid Practices (2000–2025)” was presented at the Multidisciplinary Desk Research Conference 2025 of the University of Kelaniya, held at the Faculty of Computing and Technology. The paper was delivered in the Medicine Stream by Professor Kavinda Dayasiri, Director of KidsToxLK Poison Information and Research Center.

The study, conducted as a scoping review in accordance with PRISMA-ScR guidelines, examined pre-hospital first-aid measures for childhood poisoning events over a 25-year period. It synthesized data from 17 studies spanning nine countries across Asia, Africa, Europe, North America, and Oceania.

Findings revealed that while some caregivers immediately transported children to hospital without intervention, many administered potentially harmful practices such as forced emesis, home remedies, or delayed professional care. Beneficial measures such as dilution were also variably used. Overall, harmful or inappropriate first-aid responses were reported in 20–55% of poisoning incidents.

Key determinants of caregiver behaviour included education level, socioeconomic background, cultural beliefs, and access to poison control services. Educational interventions were found to significantly improve knowledge and correct first-aid practices.

The paper concluded that first-aid responses following paediatric poisoning remain highly heterogeneous and frequently suboptimal, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. It underscored the need for context-specific educational programmes and stronger poison control infrastructure to enhance early caregiver responses and child safety outcomes.

The presentation underscored KidsToxLK’s commitment to advancing evidence-based research and promoting safer paediatric poisoning management practices both locally and globally.

Colombo, October 21, 2025 — The Poison Information Specialists from the KidsToxLK Poison Information and Research Center met with the Director General of Health Services at the Ministry of Health today for a productive discussion on strengthening and expanding pediatric poisoning services across Sri Lanka.

The meeting focused on the role, scope, and future directions of KidsToxLK, emphasizing its growing contribution to managing childhood poisoning cases and enhancing clinical toxicology expertise in the country. The specialists also provided updates on recent developments and ongoing research initiatives of the center.

Dr. Ayanthi Karunarathne, Director of Medical Services, also participated in the discussion, commending the center’s efforts and highlighting the importance of building a robust national framework for paediatric poisoning prevention and management.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to expand access, strengthen collaboration, and enhance treatment outcomes to safeguard children from toxic exposures nationwide.

On 26th September 2025, Professor Kavinda Dayasiri delivered the prestigious Sir Nicholas Attygalle Oration, an event held annually in honour of Sir Nicholas Attygalle, the first Sri Lankan Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ceylon, a visionary medical leader, and an enduring symbol of academic excellence, organised by the Sri Lanka Medical Association. His legacy continues to inspire generations of medical professionals in Sri Lanka and beyond.

This year’s oration focused on advancing knowledge and practice in paediatric toxicology, an area that remains critically important for child health in Sri Lanka. The presentation highlighted a series of landmark studies addressing accidental and deliberate poisoning in children, the growing challenge of adolescent substance abuse, and the continuing burden of paediatric snakebite envenomation. Together, these represent three of the most urgent and under-recognised threats to the safety and well-being of Sri Lankan children.

Through this body of work, Professor Dayasiri underscored not only the epidemiology of these conditions but also the existing gaps in health systems, community awareness, and preventive strategies. His oration emphasised the need for research-driven policy, education, and collaboration. By bridging science, clinical care, and community action, KidsToxLK is paving the way towards a safer, healthier future for every child in Sri Lanka.

KidsToxLK is now officially registered with the Education and Training Unit of the Ministry of Health as a Continuing Professional Development (CPD) provider.

This recognition allows us to deliver accredited training programs, workshops, and educational activities to strengthen paediatric toxicology related skills across Sri Lanka. 

Stay tuned for upcoming CPD-accredited sessions! 🚀👩‍⚕👨‍⚕

On 18th September 2025, a training and brainstorming session on the use of MyPID (My Poison Information Database) for poison information management was conducted at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya. The session was led by Dr. Gill Jackson from the Edinburgh Clinical Toxicology (EdinClinTox), United Kingdom, who shared her expertise in poison data recording, analysis, and information retrieval.

The workshop aimed to familiarise participants with the features of the MyPID platform, including structured data entry, case documentation, and generating analytical outputs that support both clinical decision-making and research. Special emphasis was placed on ensuring data accuracy, standardisation, and security—key elements in building a reliable national resource for poison information.

Poison Information Specialists from KidsToxLK actively participated in the session, engaging in interactive discussions and hands-on demonstrations. They explored how the platform could be adapted to the local context in Sri Lanka, particularly in strengthening real-time poison information services, supporting surveillance of poisoning trends, and guiding public health interventions. This training marked an important step in enhancing the digital infrastructure of poison information services.

On 17 September 2025, the Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya inaugurated the KidsToxLK Paediatric Poison Information & Research Center — a pioneering initiative designed to strengthen Sri Lanka’s response to childhood poisoning and intoxication. 

KidsToxLK has been established with a threefold mission: to provide rapid, evidence-based poison information during emergency situations; to build capacity and strengthen the skills of paediatric healthcare providers through training and continuous professional development; and to advance research and surveillance on the patterns, causes, management, and outcomes of paediatric poisoning, thereby shaping prevention strategies and improving the quality of clinical care. 

As part of its services, KidsToxLK makes use of internationally recognised resources such as TOXBASE, the UK National Poisons Information Database, to access up-to-date, evidence based clinical guidance on managing poisoning cases. For data recording, monitoring, and analysis, the Center employs MyPID, a dedicated platform that supports systematic documentation of paediatric poisoning incidents. Together, these tools enhance the accuracy, reliability, and responsiveness of the information provided by KidsToxLK.  

The Center has received technical support from the NIHR RIGHT 4 program, led by the University of Edinburgh, which works to reduce poisoning-related deaths in low- and middle income countries. Looking ahead, KidsToxLK aims to collaborate closely with the Ministry of Health to expand its services nationwide. 

The launch event was graced by the Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Professor Madawa Chandratilake alongside, the Director of the Center, Professor Kavinda Dayasiri, and several specialists in poisoning and toxicology.