Urges for Enhanced Taxation on Tobacco, Alcoholic Beverages, and High-Sugar Consumables by the World Health Organization
In a bid to address the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), the World Health Organization (WHO) has launched the "3 by 35" Initiative, targeting three high-risk products: tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks. The initiative, however, does not appear to be the same as the "3 in 5 Initiative" mentioned by Nicholas Hodac, Director General of UNESDA Soft Drinks Europe, who recently stated that a study by Tax Foundation Europe confirms that excise taxes on sugary drinks do not impact obesity rates.
The "3 by 35" Initiative aims to reduce the harm caused by these substances. Key objectives include reducing premature deaths related to NCDs and increasing health taxes on the mentioned products by 50% by 2035 to decrease consumption and generate revenue for health programs.
Countries are encouraged to implement significant increases in taxes on these products, with the expectation that higher prices will lead to reduced consumption. The increased taxes are anticipated to generate substantial revenue, which can be used to fund public health initiatives and support efforts to reduce NCDs. By reducing the consumption of these harmful products, the initiative aims to improve public health outcomes and reduce the economic burden associated with treating NCDs related to these substances.
The WHO endorses this worldwide, citing examples from countries like Colombia and South Africa where health taxes have been associated with reduced consumption and increased revenue. France, for instance, has expanded its no-smoking zones around schools, parks, playgrounds, public buildings, and beaches as part of its efforts to battle tobacco addiction and de-normalize smoking. Spain has also banned smoking and drinking on beaches to address anti-social behavior, reduce the tobacco butts' environmental impact, and cut costs of clear-up.
The tobacco industry has expressed concerns about the "3 by 35" Initiative, stating it oversimplifies complex nutritional and public health challenges and is not supported by current evidence. However, a recent report suggests that a one-time 50% price increase on these products could prevent 50 million premature deaths over the next 50 years.
UNESDA, the trade association representing the European non-alcoholic drinks industry, remains committed to working with policymakers, health experts, and civil society. They highlight their leadership in voluntary efforts in sugar reduction and expanding low-and-no sugar options. Additionally, they mention moves to support portion control through smaller pack sizes and practices like transparent labelling and responsible marketing.
The European Commission is considering a bloc-wide fiscal approach to cigarettes, an idea supported by the Netherlands and more than a dozen member states. The WHO asks legislators to increase or introduce excise taxes on tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks to raise prices and reduce consumption of these products, aiming to prevent future health costs and preventable deaths.
- The "3 by 35" Initiative targets tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks to mitigate the rising burden of chronic diseases.
- Science plays a crucial role in understanding the impact of these substances on health and wellness.
- Reducing premature deaths related to non-communicable diseases is a key objective of the initiative.
- Countries are encouraged to implement significant health taxes on the identified products by 2035 to generate revenue.
- Increased taxes on harmful products could potentially decrease consumption and improve public health.
- The "3 by 35" Initiative aims to improve public health outcomes and reduce the economic burden associated with NCDs.
- The WHO urges countries to follow the examples of nations like Colombia and South Africa, where health taxes have led to reduced consumption and increased revenue.
- France has expanded no-smoking zones to combat tobacco addiction and de-normalize smoking.
- Spain has banned smoking and drinking on beaches to tackle anti-social behavior, minimize environmental impact, and cut costs of clean-up.
- The tobacco industry voiced concerns about the initiative, claiming it oversimplifies complex nutritional and public health challenges.
- A report suggests a one-time 50% price increase on these products could prevent millions of premature deaths over the next 50 years.
- The European Commission is considering a unified fiscal approach to cigarettes, an idea supported by the Netherlands and several member states.
- The WHO encourages legislators to take action, increasing or introducing excise taxes on tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks to prevent future health costs and deaths.
- In the realm of environmental science, the increased taxes could also help mitigate the environmental impact of tobacco waste.
- The finance sector could benefit from increased tax revenue generated by the initiative, potentially investing in health programs and other areas.
- Energy-efficient manufacturing could play a role in reducing environmental damage caused by the production of these high-risk products.
- The mental health aspect of chronic diseases should be considered, as stress and depression may result from the burden of these conditions.
- Nutrition plays a critical role in managing and preventing chronic diseases, and taxing unhealthy products encourages consumers to make healthier choices.
- Cardiovascular health, a significant concern in the context of NCDs, could improve as a result of reducing consumption of harmful substances.
- Industry leaders are expected to show responsibility and support efforts to reduce non-communicable diseases.
- CBD, a compound derived from cannabis, is being studied for its potential therapeutic benefits in managing chronic diseases.
- Smart home devices and wearables could help promote health and wellness by encouraging active lifestyles and monitoring health conditions.
- Cybersecurity is important in protecting health data, ensuring patient privacy, and facilitating the digitalization of the healthcare industry.
- Lifestyle choices play a significant role in preventing and managing chronic diseases, and initiatives like the "3 by 35" Initiative can encourage healthier choices.
- Outdoor living, whether at the beach or in nature, can provide numerous health benefits and can be encouraged as part of a healthy lifestyle.
- Fashion and beauty industries must consider the impact of their products on skin conditions and overall health.
- The automotive industry has a role to play in reducing emissions and promoting energy-efficient transportation.
- Small businesses can play a significant role in promoting health and wellness initiatives within their communities.
- Entrepreneurship and innovation are essential in developing new solutions to combat chronic diseases and promote overall health and wellness.
- Sustainable living, budgeting, and debt management are important aspects of personal finance that can contribute to overall health and well-being.
