Tobacco Use among Young People in Maldives
Survey report on the knowledge, attitude, behaviour & exposure to tobacco products of young people
Highlights
Tobacco use remains a leading preventable cause of death worldwide, and Maldives continues to face serious health and social impacts from tobacco-related diseases. In response, the Government has strengthened tobacco control measures, banning e-cigarettes and vaping products from December 2024 and introducing a Generational Tobacco Ban from November 2025, preventing those born after 1 January 2007, from using tobacco products.
Despite these policies, tobacco use continues to grow among Maldivian youth, driven by social acceptance, peer influence, and media exposure. Given the increasing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and the importance of adolescence in shaping lifelong habits, it is critical to engage young people in informed conversations on healthy choices.
