1676: Helpline introduced for those seeking to quit smoking

A helpline, or a ‘quitline’, has been established to assist individuals seeking to quit smoking – ensuring the availability of a cessation service nationwide.  

The contact number of the helpline is 1676.

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday regarding the efforts being undertaken by the government to control tobacco in the Maldives – Health Minister Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim revealed the cabinet’s decision to establish a nationwide cessation service for smokers who are interested in quitting.

In this trajectory, the Minister said efforts have been undertaken to train individuals who will provide cessation service with plans to train additional personnel.

He noted that a helpline being established for individuals who wish to seek cessation service – 1676 – will be accessible to the public starting from Sunday.

“A quitline has been established for the purpose of ensuring easy accessibility of the service. The services of this quit line will be available 24 hours. The services of this quitline will be available starting from December 8^th, the next Sunday,” he said.

Speaking further, Minister Nazim said the government, in collaboration with World Health Organization (WHO), is undertaking efforts to formulate a five-year plan to phase out tobacco in the Maldives in line with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s decision.

He noted that the Health Ministry will seek recommendations from relevant authorities and the general public in formulating the plan.