Goidhoo resident urges probe into pesticide use after 9 cancer cases in 5 years

A resident of B. Goidhoo has called on the government to investigate pesticide use on the island’s farms and examine possible links to a troubling rise in cancer cases among its small population.  

In a letter addressed to Health Minister Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim and Agriculture Minister Dr. Mariyam Mariya, Shahula Wajeeh urged authorities to take action on two pressing concerns: the increasing prevalence of non-communicable diseases, especially cancer, and unsafe agricultural practices.  

Goidhoo, home to around 500 residents, has seen nine cancer diagnoses and three deaths in the past five years, Shahula wrote. She noted that the island has a relatively high rate of tobacco use, which compounds health risks.  

The letter also raised alarm over farming practices, stating that 95 percent of land allocated for cultivation is operated by foreign workers, and that vegetables and fruits are often harvested and sold without observing safe waiting periods after chemical spraying. Shahula cited examples such as lettuce, chillies, and cucumbers being sold while still carrying pesticide residue.  

She called for inspections under the Pesticides Control Act in Agriculture, and urged the government to study the causes of rising cancer rates at the island level and launch awareness campaigns.  

Shahula emphasized that fertilizers are not being used appropriately and that the lack of oversight poses a serious threat to public health.  

The Ministry of Agriculture has previously announced a farm auditing initiative called the Maldives Good Agricultural Practices (MGAP) Certification, aimed at ensuring food safety and quality.  

Cancer remains a major health concern in the Maldives. According to the World Health Organization, cancer accounted for 17 percent of deaths in the country as of 2020. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, diet, and genetic predisposition are known contributors.