Discussions underway with Health Ministry to identify causes behind rising cancer cases in B. Goidhoo: Minister Mariya

Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare Dr. Mariyam Mariya has stated that the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Health are holding discussions to identify the causes behind the rising cancer rates in B. Goidhoo.

During a press conference held to provide updates on government ministerial activities, Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare Mariyam Mariya stated that despite the existence of legislation governing pesticides, a formal policy had never been established. However, Minister Mariya noted that efforts to formulate a comprehensive policy on pesticide use were initiated last year.

While she did not provide extensive details during the press conference, Minister Mariya later informed several media outlets that the rising incidence of cancer in the Maldives has come to the government's attention. She noted that authorities are currently investigating the prevalence of the disease even in small island communities, such as Goidhoo, where cases have become alarmingly common.

Minister Mariya stated that the Ministry is collaborating with the Ministry of Health to conduct research and identify the underlying causes for the rising cancer rates in Goidhoo.

On December 7, 2025, a resident of Goidhoo—an island with a population of approximately 500—requested an investigation into the rising prevalence of cancer on the island, alongside an inspection of pesticide use in local farming. In a formal letter addressed to both the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Agriculture, several concerns were raised, highlighting that nine individuals have been diagnosed with cancer and three have died from the disease over the past five years.