By Sulaiman Ssebugwawo
The soft drink or energy drink in your hand might be doing more than just quenching your thirst — it could be silently fuelling serious health complications such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.
In response to the growing burden of diet-related diseases, the World Health Organisation (WHO) is calling for a global push to introduce taxes on harmful products like sugary beverages. The move is aimed at protecting millions of lives and reducing the health risks associated with excessive sugar consumption.
Studies show that sugary drinks significantly contribute to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other non-communicable diseases, which have become leading causes of preventable death worldwide.
WHO recommends that governments implement taxation policies on these products as part of broader efforts to promote healthy lifestyles and curb the global health crisis.
Health experts argue that such taxes not only reduce consumption but also generate revenue that can be reinvested in healthcare systems, nutrition programs, and public awareness campaigns.
WHO maintains that reducing the availability and affordability of sugary drinks is a critical step towards safeguarding public health and achieving long-term wellness for communities across the globe.