The World Health Organization (WHO) is urging countries to step up and impose higher taxes on alcohol and sugary drinks as a strategic move to combat their adverse impacts on global health.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the WHO emphasized that elevating excise taxes on alcoholic beverages and sweetened drinks stands out as the most effective measure to curtail consumption while simultaneously generating much-needed revenue.
According to the organization, a staggering 2.6 million people worldwide succumb to alcohol-related causes annually, and over 8 million meet their demise due to unhealthy dietary habits. The WHO lamented that many countries are not fully utilizing taxation as a potent tool to enhance public health.
Beyond curbing consumption, increased taxes could serve as a catalyst for the development of healthier alternatives, fostering a shift toward more beneficial products. Moreover, such measures have the potential to mitigate injuries and the prevalence of noncommunicable diseases like cancer and heart disease.
The WHO’s research unveiled a concerning trend – alcoholic beverages have become increasingly affordable in most countries over time. Citing a 2017 study, the organization highlighted that a 50% hike in alcohol prices could prevent more than 21 million deaths and generate nearly $17 trillion in revenue over a span of 50 years.
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