A study has shown that tobacco use among young people in the Maldives is at a worrying level despite a vape ban and a generational ban on cigarettes.
The UNICEF survey was published after interviewing 200 young people between the ages of 16 and 20.
It showed the exposure to tobacco culture remains high with family members or friends using such products.
Young people are also exposed to various tobacco-related issues through social media.
The study highlighted that tobacco use remains at a worrying level due to peer pressure and to fit into the tobacco use culture.
It also stressed that social media tools promote tobacco use as normal and acceptable.
“Ongoing anti-tobacco measures and the Generational Ban on Tobacco will have a desirable outcome if positive behavior is reinforced among young people along with actions to say no to tobacco, mitigation of media influences and a supportive environment,” the survey concluded.
It added that the youth are aware of the harmful effects of tobacco and are determined to avoid it. But it noted the importance of shaping policies targeting young people.
