Diabetes Canada is seeking further details from the provincial government of Newfoundland and Labrador on how it plans to address diabetes and other chronic diseases following the decision to repeal the province’s sugar tax.
Currently, approximately 33% of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are living with diabetes or prediabetes, a figure that underscores the urgent need for continued public health initiatives.
Concerns Over Health Program Funding
The sugar tax, which applied to sugary drinks, had been a source of revenue for several health-related programs. According to Diabetes Canada, these funds supported critical initiatives such as the continuous glucose-monitoring (CGM) pilot program, healthy living initiatives, school nutrition programs, and physical activity and sport development efforts.
Laura O’Driscoll, Senior Manager of Policy with Diabetes Canada, emphasized the importance of these programs in both preventing and managing chronic diseases. While she acknowledged that a sugar tax alone is not a comprehensive solution, she pointed out that it helps encourage healthier consumption patterns while generating much-needed funds for public health measures.
Awaiting Government’s Response
With the tax now repealed, Diabetes Canada is seeking clarity on how the provincial government intends to compensate for the lost revenue and ensure that these vital health programs continue.
“We look forward to learning more about how the province intends to continue addressing the rising impact of diabetes and other chronic diseases in Newfoundland and Labrador,” said O’Driscoll.
Diabetes remains a significant health challenge in the province, contributing to serious and costly complications such as stroke, heart attack, kidney failure, and limb amputations.
The Broader Impact
Public health experts have long argued that fiscal policies like sugar taxes, while not standalone solutions, play a meaningful role in reducing sugary drink consumption and promoting overall community health. The removal of such a measure raises concerns about potential setbacks in chronic disease prevention and management efforts.
As the province moves forward without the sugar tax, stakeholders like Diabetes Canada await further information on how public health initiatives will be sustained and expanded to combat the growing diabetes epidemic.
Related topics:
Diabetes Rates in Australia May Be Far Higher Than Reported
Maternal Diabetes Linked to Increased Risk of Autism and ADHD in Children
Pre-Diabetes Linked to Early Heart Attack and Stroke Risks, Experts Warn
