Cheaper Drinks Will Lead to Increased Noncommunicable Diseases and Injuries

The World Health Organization (WHO) is urging governments around the world to increase taxes on sugary drinks and alcoholic beverages to reduce harmful consumption and raise revenue for health systems, which are under growing financial pressure from preventable noncommunicable diseases and injuries.

In two new global reports released today, WHO warns that weak tax systems are keeping sugary drinks and alcoholic beverages cheap, contributing to obesity, diabetes, heart disease, cancers, and injuries, particularly in children and young adults.

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, stated, "Health taxes are one of the strongest tools we have for promoting health and preventing disease." By raising taxes on harmful products like tobacco, sugary drinks, and alcohol, governments can reduce harmful consumption and unlock funds for vital health services.

While 116 countries tax sugary drinks, many high-sugar products such as 100% fruit juices, sweetened milk drinks, and ready-to-drink coffees and teas escape taxation. Despite 97% of countries taxing energy drinks, this figure has remained unchanged since the last global report in 2023.

WHO also found that while 167 countries levy taxes on alcoholic beverages, alcohol prices have remained stable or decreased in many countries since 2022, as taxes fail to keep up with inflation and income growth. In over 25 countries, wine remains untaxed, primarily in Europe, despite clear health risks.

"Cheaper alcohol leads to violence, injuries, and diseases," highlighted Dr. Etienne Krug, Director of WHO’s Department of Health Determinants, Promotion, and Prevention. "While industry profits continue, the public bears the health consequences and society shoulders the economic costs."

Source: World Health Organization