The group has called for immediate action to ban the import and use of vapes and e-cigarettes in the Maldives, stating that such a measure would improve public health, reduce the risk of NCDs, and decrease the likelihood of youth addiction to drugs.
Maldives NCD Alliance, a coalition of seven associations, has appealed to President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to ban the import of vapes in the country.
In a letter submitted to the president, NCD Alliance expressed concerns over the increasing use of vapes and e-cigarettes in the Maldives, noting that non-communicable diseases (NCDs) pose the biggest health burden in the country. The alliance highlighted that use of tobacco and tobacco-related products, including vapes and e-cigarettes, are among the primary risk factors for NCDs.
Classified as tobacco products by the WHO, vapes and e-cigarettes usage have significantly increased in recent years, the alliance said. "The side effects of these products are numerous, contributing to adverse health outcomes and increasing the risk of NCD's," said the alliance, which comprises the Cancer Society, Diabetes Society, SHE, Thalassemia Society, Mental Health Awareness Foundation, MAPD, and Tiny Hearts.
The group has called for immediate action to ban the import and use of vapes and e-cigarettes in the Maldives, stating that such a measure would improve public health, reduce the risk of NCDs, and decrease the likelihood of youth addiction to drugs.
NCD Alliance cited research by the American Cancer Society, which found that vape use accounts for 15 percent of reported lung cancer risk factors. The study also reported that more than 30 percent of vape users are at increased risk of developing diabetes, as well as other health issues such as kidney failure, stroke, and heart attack.
Recently, a group of senior doctors in the UK urged their government to adopt similar measures to those used in controlling tobacco, including a ban on disposable e-cigarettes and flavored vapes.
Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusaan in an interview with Mihaaru News said last July that vapes have already been banned in 50 countries, including seven out of 11 South Asian nations. The Maldives is currently exploring a similar ban, he said.
"The government is preparing to make that decision," said Ihusaan. "Personally, I believe vapes should be banned, but the final decision will be made by the Maldives cabinet. I will submit it for their consideration."
Minister Ihusaan noted that the Homeland Ministry is spearheading efforts to ban vapes because vape cartridges have been used to smuggle drugs. He added that drug operations in the country have found narcotics being used in vape devices, posing a threat to the recruitment of children into drug-related activities.
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