Successful anti-tobacco initiatives last year led to more than 300 individuals quitting the habit: HPA

The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has announced that successful anti-tobacco initiatives carried out over the past year have resulted in more than 300 individuals quitting the habit.

During a press conference held at the President's Office on Thursday, details were shared regarding the successful initiatives carried out by HPA, which operates under the Ministry of Health.

Regarding these efforts, HPA Director Ahmed Nasir stated that significant progress was made in the fight against tobacco last year. He noted that according to official records, 375 individuals successfully quit smoking over the past year.

Smoking has been identified as the most significant risk factor contributing to the prevalence of non-communicable diseases. Consequently, the Health Protection Agency (HPA) is undertaking extensive efforts to control tobacco use. These initiatives include drafting and publishing the necessary regulations and technical standards to enforce the Tobacco Control Act, raising public awareness regarding these regulations, and establishing the mechanisms and resources required for effective enforcement. As you are aware, this past year has been a particularly significant one in the efforts toward tobacco control.

HPA Director Ahmed Nasir

Furthermore, smoking cessation services have been expanded across the Maldives as a preventive healthcare measure under the Health Services Act. HPA stated that cessation training has been completed across all atolls, with 494 healthcare professionals currently active in providing these services.

HPA has announced the establishment of the National Quitline (1676), noting that it has already attended to 770 calls and provided necessary assistance.