Australian study backs AMA calls for a tax on sugar-sweetened beverages
New research showing more than 500,000 cavities could be prevented over 10 years if a sugar tax was introduced provides yet another reason for the federal government to introduce the AMA’s proposed sugar tax.
The research from three Australian Universities has concluded a tax on sugar sweetened beverages would have a major positive impact on dental heath in Australia and save the country millions of dollars.
The Monash University-led collaboration with Deakin University and the University of Melbourne provides important new data for Australia.
AMA President Professor Steve Robson said there is now more impetus for the government to adopt a sugar tax which both improves health outcomes and raises revenue.
“We’ve known a lot about how high sugar consumption contributes to obesity and chronic disease, but oral health is often excluded from studies.
“This important research deepens our understanding of the impact of sugary drinks on dental health across a wide range of age groups in the Australian context.
“It’s further evidence a tax on sugary drinks is the right decision for Australia and puts to bed industry arguments there is insufficient evidence to support a sugar tax.
“We know the government is focusing on ways to prevent chronic disease in Australia and we continue to urge them to implement a sugar tax like more than 85 other jurisdictions across the world.
“The AMA’s own research shows that adding just 16 cents to the price of a can of soft drink results in thousands of fewer cases of diabetes (-16,000), heart disease (-4,400) and stroke (-1,100) over 25 years but we now additionally know 500,000 dental cavities and their costs could be avoided over a decade with cost-savings of $63.5 million.
“I keep saying it’s a no-brainer and that’s because a sugar tax would generate $2.8 billion over four years for the Australian economy which can be directed into preventative health measures. As a nation we’ll be healthier and wealthier.”
