Study launched into cancer cases in B. Goidhoo
She said the objective is to determine whether there is any link between pesticide use and reported health concerns.
Agriculture and Animal Welfare Minister Mariyam Mariya said on Tuesday that research is being conducted into reported cancer cases in B. Goidhoo, including an examination of pesticides used in agricultural activities on the island.
Speaking at a press conference organised by the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare, the minister said the Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) is leading the study with the support of the ministry.
She said the objective is to determine whether there is any link between pesticide use and reported health concerns.
Concerns about cancer cases in Goidhoo were raised in a letter sent by a resident to the Health Minister. The letter stated that despite the island’s small population, a number of residents have been diagnosed with cancer. It also alleged that most agricultural land on the island is managed by expatriates and that pesticides may be used in ways that pose risks to health.
The letter called for an inspection of pesticide application practices in Goidhoo’s farms.
Minister Mariya said that although a Pesticides Act exists, there has been no formal policy governing its implementation. She said work on developing a pesticide policy began last year and that enforcement is expected after the policy framework is finalised.
Authorities have not yet provided a timeline for the completion of the study.
