Excessive consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) is a significant contributor to non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Nigeria.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), consuming SSBs is linked to various health problems, including:
1. Obesity
2. Type 2 diabetes
3. Heart disease
4. Stroke
5. Cancer
In Nigeria, NCDs account for approximately 29% of total deaths, with a significant portion attributed to SSB consumption.
A study published in the Journal of Public Health and Epidemiology found that:
– High SSB consumption increased the risk of obesity by 27% among Nigerian adults.
– SSB consumption was significantly associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes (31%) and hypertension (25%) in Nigerian adults.
Another study published in the Nigerian Journal of Clinical Practice found that:
– SSB consumption was a significant predictor of cardiovascular disease risk factors among Nigerian adults.
While the exact percentage of NCD deaths attributed to SSB consumption in Nigeria may vary, it is clear that excessive SSB consumption is a significant contributor to NCDs in the country.
Reducing SSB consumption is crucial to mitigate the burden of NCDs in Nigeria. This can be achieved through:
– Public awareness campaigns
– Sugar taxation policies
– Promoting healthy beverage options
– Encouraging responsible marketing practices
Verdict – True. SBBs account for 29% of NCDs deaths in Nigeria.