The 13th World Conference on Tobacco OR Health

Objective: During the past few decades Mauritius has witnessed an alarming epidemic of non-communicable diseases(NCDs). Prevalence in the adult population aged 20 years and above is 15% for diabetes, 23% for high blood pressure and 36% for tobacco use among males. Health authorities aim to bring down the burden of NCDs by influencing positively their related risk factors, including tobacco use.

Methods: In 1999 the Public Health (Restrictions on Tobacco Products) Regulation was adopted. It banned tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship, the sale of tobacco products to minors and smoking in indoor public places and workplaces. Health warning was included on packets of cigarettes manufactured locally. Extensive public awareness interventions were carried out using a multi-media approach.

Results: No significant impact was noted regarding the prevalence of tobacco use among males. It decreased at the same rate as before the regulation was passed (around 5% every 5 years ). The greatest weakness in the program was the absence of a comprehensive tobacco control policy. The FCTC now provides the window of opportunity to address the problem in a more holistic manner. Mauritius has ratified the Convention and is engaged in a process of extensive consultation to generate consensus on future policies and strategies. A National Action Plan on Tobacco Control is being developed. The challenge ahead is to harness efforts and mobilize resources to confront the epidemics of NCDs and tobacco use.