The Australian Dental Association (ADA) applauds the recent report by the Grattan Institute titled “Sickly Sweet,” which echoes the ADA’s longstanding advocacy for the implementation of a sugar tax on sugary beverages.
Dr. Scott Davis, President of the ADA and a respected prosthodontist from New South Wales, emphasizes the urgent need for Australia to adopt a sugar tax. “Introducing a levy on sugary drinks is not only crucial for addressing the country’s obesity epidemic but also for stemming the tide of tooth decay,” Dr. Davis asserts.
Drawing upon extensive research findings and the insights provided by the Grattan report, Dr. Davis underscores the positive impact of sugary drink taxes on oral health. Countries worldwide that have already implemented such levies have witnessed marked improvements in oral health outcomes.
For years, the ADA has been advocating to the Australian government for the implementation of a sugar tax, with the revenue earmarked for targeted oral health programs as outlined in the ADA’s Dental Health Plan. The nation’s oral health indicators paint a concerning picture, with the ADA’s Adult Oral Health Tracker revealing a significant increase in tooth decay among Australian adults over the past decade.
Moreover, the ADA’s Children and Young People Oral Health Tracker underscores the escalating rates of preventable hospitalizations due to dental issues among Australian children. Dr. Davis highlights the success of the UK’s sugar tax in curbing hospital admissions for dental procedures, pointing to a clear path forward for Australia.
Dr. Davis laments Australia’s lag behind over 100 nations worldwide that have taken decisive action to combat sugar consumption through taxation on sugary beverages. “As long as our government hesitates, Australia will continue to fall behind in safeguarding the oral health of its citizens,” Dr. Davis warns.
In conclusion, the ADA stands firm in its support for the introduction of a sugar tax, viewing it as a crucial step towards promoting better oral health outcomes for all Australians.
Taking a Stand for Dental Health: ADA Applauds Call for Sugar Tax added by Indian newspaper Sydney on
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