### WHO Advocates for a 50% Tax Increase on Sugary Drinks, Alcohol, and Tobacco to Combat Public Health Issues The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched a significant initiative urging countries worldwide to implement a **50% tax increase** on sugary drinks, alcohol, and tobacco by the year 2035. This move is aimed at addressing chronic health issues linked to the consumption of these products, which contribute to diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and heart disease. The WHO's proposal is part of a broader strategy to generate revenue for health systems while simultaneously reducing the consumption of harmful products that pose risks to public health. The organization estimates that such tax increases could prevent **50 million premature deaths** over the next 50 years, making it a critical public health intervention [https://www.indiatoday.in/health/story/who-calls-for-50-percent-price-increase-on-sugary-drinks-alcohol-and-tobacco-by-2035-2750842-2025-07-04][https://www.euronews.com/health/2025/07/04/global-health-officials-urge-countries-to-raise-sin-taxes-on-tobacco-alcohol-and-sugary-dr]. ### Structure of the WHO's Initiative and Its Implications 1. **Objective of the Tax Increase**: - The WHO aims to curb the consumption of sugary drinks, alcohol, and tobacco through significant tax hikes, which are referred to as "sin taxes." This initiative is designed to tackle chronic diseases and improve public health outcomes [https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/national/who-calls-on-countries-to-up-sin-tax-on-tobacco-alcohol-and-sugary-drinks-by-50-by-2035/article69772151.ece]. 2. **Projected Health Benefits**: - The WHO estimates that implementing these taxes could prevent **50 million premature deaths** over the next 50 years, highlighting the potential impact on global health [https://www.euronews.com/health/2025/07/04/global-health-officials-urge-countries-to-raise-sin-taxes-on-tobacco-alcohol-and-sugary-dr]. 3. **Economic Implications**: - The initiative is expected to raise approximately **$1 trillion** in revenue, which could be utilized to fund health systems and address the challenges posed by declining development aid and rising public debt [https://www.business-standard.com/health/who-3-by-35-initiative-tax-unhealthy-products-save-lives-2035-125070300821_1.html]. 4. **Global Call to Action**: - The WHO is urging all countries, including Nigeria and others, to adopt these tax measures as part of a global health strategy [https://thenationonlineng.net/who-urges-nigeria-others-to-raise-taxes-on-sugary-drinks-alcohol-tobacco-by-50/amp]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Projected Revenue**: The WHO's tax initiative could generate **$1 trillion** in revenue, which can be reinvested into health systems [https://www.business-standard.com/health/who-3-by-35-initiative-tax-unhealthy-products-save-lives-2035-125070300821_1.html]. - **Health Impact**: The proposed tax increases are projected to prevent **50 million premature deaths** over the next 50 years, emphasizing the potential for significant public health improvements [https://www.euronews.com/health/2025/07/04/global-health-officials-urge-countries-to-raise-sin-taxes-on-tobacco-alcohol-and-sugary-dr]. - **Chronic Disease Statistics**: Consumption of sugary drinks, alcohol, and tobacco is linked to various chronic diseases, including diabetes and cancer, which are major public health concerns globally [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/business/3491690-who-advocates-tax-increase-on-sugary-drinks-alcohol-and-tobacco]. ### Conclusion: A Strategic Move Towards Better Public Health In summary, the WHO's initiative to increase taxes on sugary drinks, alcohol, and tobacco by **50%** is a strategic move aimed at improving public health and generating necessary revenue for health systems. The key points are as follows: 1. **Objective**: To reduce consumption of harmful products and combat chronic diseases. 2. **Health Benefits**: Potential to prevent **50 million premature deaths** over the next 50 years. 3. **Economic Impact**: Expected to raise **$1 trillion** for health systems. 4. **Global Engagement**: A call for all countries to participate in this health initiative. This comprehensive approach not only addresses immediate health concerns but also lays the groundwork for sustainable public health funding in the future [https://www.indiatoday.in/health/story/who-calls-for-50-percent-price-increase-on-sugary-drinks-alcohol-and-tobacco-by-2035-2750842-2025-07-04][https://www.business-standard.com/health/who-3-by-35-initiative-tax-unhealthy-products-save-lives-2035-125070300821_1.html].