NCD Alliance Urges President to Ban E-cigarette Imports in Maldives

Sep.13.2024

The Edition reported on September 12 that Maldives NCD Alliance urges President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to ban e-cigarette imports.

According to The Edition on September 12th, the Non-Communicable Disease Alliance in the Maldives has called on President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to ban the import of e-cigarettes.

In a letter submitted to the president, the alliance expressed concern about the increasing use of e-cigarettes and vaping products in the Maldives. It pointed out that non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the country's biggest health burden, and the use of tobacco and tobacco-related products (including e-cigarettes) is one of the major risk factors for NCDs.

The Non-Communicable Diseases Alliance (NCD) is made up of seven organizations including the Cancer Association, Diabetes Association, SHE, Mediterranean Anemia Association, Mental Health Awareness Foundation, MAPD, and Tiny Hearts. The alliance is calling for immediate action to ban the import and use of e-cigarettes and vaping products in the Maldives. NCD also cited research from the American Cancer Association, indicating that 15% of e-cigarette users have risk factors for lung cancer. Additionally, over 30% of e-cigarette users reported an increased risk of developing diabetes, as well as facing health problems such as kidney cancer, stroke, and heart disease.

The Minister of National Security and Technology of the Maldives, Ali Ihusaan, stated in an interview with Mihaaru News that...

The government is preparing to make this decision. Personally, I believe e-cigarettes should be banned, but the final decision will be made by the State Council, and I will submit it to them for consideration.

He added that the Ministry of Internal Affairs is taking the lead in banning e-cigarettes because electronic pod cartridges have been used to smuggle drugs. He further stated that their drug enforcement operations have found narcotics in e-cigarette devices, posing a threat to recruiting children for drug-related activities.

References:

[1] Maldives NCD Alliance appeal banning import of vapes to President Muizzu

Also Read:

[1] Maldives Health Agency Advocates for Additional Tobacco Taxation

[2] Maldives Customs to Cancel Tax-Free Import of E-Cigarettes and Energy Drinks

#Legislation #E-cigarettes #Asia #Maldives

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