WHO: Sweet Beverage Tax Will Help Philippines Prevent Thousands Of Deaths

MANILA (Reuters) – Philippine taxes on sweetened beverages will help the country avoid 24,000 premature deaths for reasons related to diabetes, stroke and heart attacks over the next 20 years, said Wednesday. 39, World Health Organization.

A WHO study indicates that taxes imposed this year could reduce consumption and prevent more than 6,000 deaths from heart disease over 20 years.

"The tax on sugary drinks can help reduce the number of premature deaths due to obesity," the researchers said.

The tax, which is part of a series of reforms to fund infrastructure, could save about $ 627 million in health funds and generate annual revenues of $ 813 million, they said. declared.

Countries such as Britain, Belgium, France, Hungary and Mexico have approved or are considering introducing similar taxes on sweetened drinks, while Scandinavian countries have imposed such taxes for years.