WHO: Sugary drink tax reduces obesity, diabetes www3.nhk.or.jp
A World Health Organization report says taxing sugary drinks can help to reduce the risk of obesity and diabetes.
The report released on Tuesday was compiled by a WHO group that studies policies to prevent non-communicable diseases.
The study says the consumption of sugary drinks and other similar products is a major factor behind the rise in the number of people suffering from obesity and diabetes. The WHO says about 500 million people aged 18 or older are obese and over 400 million have diabetes.
It says an increase of at least 20 percent in the retail price of such products can encourage people to significantly reduce their consumption.
The report says a tax would have the greatest positive effect on the health of young people and those on low incomes.
It adds that a tax on sugary drinks can reduce people's suffering, save lives and cut healthcare costs.
Mexico has already introduced a tax on non-alcoholic beverages with added sugar. Britain, the Philippines and South Africa are considering taxes on sugary drinks.
Published Date:2016-10-12