WHO Initiative Aims to Reduce Chronic Disease with Health Taxes
Table of Contents
- WHO Initiative Aims to Reduce Chronic Disease with Health Taxes
- Tackling the Global Burden of non-Communicable Diseases
- The Power of Health Taxes
- Country Success Stories and the Need for Broader Implementation
- Collaborative Approach for Success
- key Objectives of the “3 by 2035” Initiative
- WHO’s Call to Action
- Health Tax Examples
- Evergreen Insights: Background, Context, Historical Trends
- FAQ About Health Taxes
The World Health Organization (WHO) launched a large-scale initiative today, July 2, 2025, with the goal of substantially increasing the real prices of tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks through taxation. The “3 by 2035” initiative aims to raise prices by at least 50% by 2035 to combat the rise of chronic diseases and generate essential public revenues.
Tackling the Global Burden of non-Communicable Diseases
The WHO’s intervention comes at a critical time, as health systems face immense pressure due to the increasing prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), declining development aid, and rising public debt. Consumption of tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks significantly contributes to the NCD epidemic.These diseases, including heart disease, cancer, and diabetes, account for over 75% of deaths worldwide.
Did You Know? NCDs are the leading cause of death globally, killing 41 million people each year, equivalent to 74% of all deaths worldwide [[WHO NCD Fact Sheet]].
According to a recent report, a 50% increase in the price of these harmful products could prevent 50 million premature deaths over the next 50 years.This highlights the potential impact of effective health tax policies.
The Power of Health Taxes
“taxes on harmful products for health are one of the most effective tools we have,” stated Dr. Jeremy Farrar, CEO of the WHO responsible for health promotion, prevention, and disease control. He emphasized that these taxes reduce the consumption of harmful products and generate revenue that can be reinvested in healthcare,education,and social protection.”It’s time to act,” he urged.
The initiative sets an ambitious yet achievable goal of generating $1 trillion over the next 10 years. The WHO points to the period between 2012 and 2022, during which nearly 140 countries increased tobacco taxes, resulting in real price increases averaging over 50%, demonstrating the feasibility of large-scale change.
Country Success Stories and the Need for Broader Implementation
Several countries, including Colombia and South Africa, have already demonstrated the positive impact of health taxes, experiencing declines in consumption and increases in revenue. However, many nations continue to offer tax incentives for harmful products, particularly tobacco. The WHO encourages governments to re-evaluate and eliminate such exemptions to enhance the effectiveness of tobacco control measures and protect public health.
Pro Tip: Governments can leverage health taxes to not only improve public health but also to strengthen their economies by generating revenue for essential services.
Collaborative Approach for Success
The success of the “3 by 2035” initiative hinges on close collaboration. Led by the WHO, the initiative unites a powerful coalition of global partners to assist countries in implementing health taxes. These organizations provide technical expertise, strategic advice, and practical experience.By working together, they aim to raise public awareness of the benefits of health taxes and support national-level efforts [[2]].
key Objectives of the “3 by 2035” Initiative
The “3 by 2035” initiative focuses on several key areas to support countries in aligning health policies with best implementation practices. These include:
- Reducing Consumption of Harmful Products: Making tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks less affordable through taxation to decrease consumption and reduce future healthcare costs and preventable deaths.
- Generating Revenue: Mobilizing national public resources to finance essential health and development programs,including universal health coverage.
- Obtaining Broad Political Support: Strengthening multisectoral alliances involving ministries of finance and health, parliamentarians, civil society, and researchers to design and implement effective policies.
WHO’s Call to Action
The WHO urges countries, civil society organizations, and development partners to support the “3 by 2035” initiative and commit to more judicious and equitable taxation that promotes health and accelerates progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals.
Health Tax Examples
Health taxes are levied on products that have a negative public health impact, for example tobacco, alcohol and sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) [[3]].
| Product | Impact | Taxation Goal |
|---|---|---|
| Tobacco | Leading cause of preventable death globally. | Reduce consumption and prevent smoking-related diseases. |
| Alcohol | Contributes to various health problems, including liver disease and accidents. | Decrease excessive alcohol consumption and related harm. |
| Sugar-Sweetened Beverages (SSBs) | Linked to obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders. | Discourage consumption and promote healthier beverage choices. |
Evergreen Insights: Background, Context, Historical Trends
The concept of using taxation to influence public health has a long history. Sin taxes, levied on goods considered undesirable, have been used for centuries to discourage consumption and raise revenue.In recent decades, there has been a growing recognition of the potential of health taxes to address the global burden of NCDs. The WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, such as, highlights taxation as a key strategy for reducing tobacco use.
The effectiveness of health taxes depends on various factors, including the size of the tax, the affordability of the product, and the presence of complementary policies such as public awareness campaigns and restrictions on advertising. Research has consistently shown that higher taxes lead to lower consumption,particularly among price-sensitive populations such as young people and low-income individuals.
FAQ About Health Taxes
Disclaimer: This article provides general details and should not be considered as professional health or financial advice. Consult with qualified experts for personalized guidance.
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