The Ministry of Health has stated that they are working on arrangements to introduce a 24-hour hotline for those who want to quit tobacco, and to provide all expenses and necessary items through Aasandha for those seeking treatment.

During a press conference held today at the Ministry of Health, Health Minister Abdullah Nazim said that they have decided to introduce a helpline from next Sunday for people who want to quit tobacco to seek treatment. The number is 1676.

Nazim said that arrangements have been made for those who want to quit tobacco to receive treatment through Aasandha.

"The government has now decided to ensure that nicotine patches, gum, and other patches needed for this, as well as treatment, will be covered by Aasandha. To further complete the cessation work, a helpline has now been established. From December 8th, next Sunday, this quit line service will be provided through HPA," Minister Nazim said.

The Minister also said that effective awareness programs to control tobacco are currently being carried out with the help of WHO, and that they have decided to seek public guidance and input from relevant agencies for the five-year plan being developed.

The Minister further stated that the helpline will facilitate treatment at the nearest facility to the person, and the location of the service will be clearly known to the individual. Nazim also said that they aim to complete the training of people needed for this within the next two to three months.