Introducing a 20% tax on sugary drinks could prevent millions of cases of tooth decay and other dental diseases in Australia, according to a study by Griffith University researchers, as reported by infohub.kz.
The research, conducted by scientists at Griffith University, showed that such a measure would significantly improve the dental health of Australians. According to the modeling results, the tax would prevent 3.7 million cases of tooth decay, 191,000 cases of gum disease, and 115,000 cases of complete tooth loss. The study was published in the journal BMJ Public Health.
Professor Lennert Veerman from Griffith's School of Medicine and Dentistry noted that the tax would bring the greatest benefit to men, as they consume more sugary drinks. Co-author Michelle Shahid emphasized that this is the first Australian modeling to assess the impact of the tax not only on tooth decay but also on periodontitis and complete tooth loss.
The researchers note that a nationwide tax helps create an environment that promotes healthy choices without requiring individuals to change their behavior. Professor Marco Peres from Singapore added that the benefits of this measure go far beyond tackling obesity and diabetes.