Web desk: The Maldives has introduced a landmark law banning smoking for anyone born after 2006, making it one of the first countries in the world to impose a generational tobacco ban.
Under the new legislation, individuals born on or after January 1, 2007, are legally prohibited from buying, selling, or using tobacco products.
The law applies to both Maldivian citizens and foreign visitors, ensuring uniform enforcement across the island nation.
Retailers are now required to verify the age and date of birth of every customer before selling tobacco. Failure to comply may result in fines and penalties, according to official reports.
The law ensures that no one born after 2006 will ever be legally allowed access to tobacco products, marking a major step toward protecting public health for future generations.
In addition to traditional tobacco, the Maldives has also tightened regulations on e-cigarettes and vaping. Authorities hope stricter controls will curb rising vaping trends and reduce nicotine addiction among young people.
This bold initiative reflects the country’s commitment to creating a tobacco-free generation and promoting long-term health across the Maldives.
E-Cigarettes and Tobacco: Health Risks Explained
Both traditional tobacco and e-cigarettes are harmful to health, though in different ways. Smoking tobacco increases the risk of cancer, heart disease, and lung problems.
E-cigarettes may have fewer toxic chemicals than cigarettes, but they are not safe. They can damage the heart and lungs, cause nicotine addiction, and irritate the mouth and lungs due to chemicals like formaldehyde, lead, and tiny particles.
Most e-cigarettes contain nicotine, which is highly addictive. Nicotine is dangerous for youth, young adults, and pregnant women. It can harm a developing fetus.
E-cigarette aerosol can also contain cancer-causing chemicals and ultrafine particles that reach deep into the lungs.
E-cigarettes are part of a wider group called electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) and electronic non-nicotine delivery systems (ENNDS).
These include e-cigars and e-pipes. They work by heating liquids, called e-liquids, to produce aerosols for inhalation. E-liquids may contain nicotine, flavours, and other harmful chemicals.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) warns that e-cigarettes are marketed to children and young people. They come in bright colours, sweet flavours, and toy-like designs. Social media ads and influencers also target youth.
Use of e-cigarettes among children and teens is rising fast, often higher than adult use. Therefore, it is very important to remember that no tobacco or e-cigarette product is completely safe.
