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Badu E, Crawford G, Hallett J, Vujcich D, Bellringer ME. The threat of gambling to public health in Ghana: time to act. Perspect Public Health 2024; 144:205-207. [PMID: 39108134 PMCID: PMC11308286 DOI: 10.1177/17579139241229886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- E Badu
- Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - G Crawford
- Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Population Health, Curtin University, Room 453 Building 400, Curtin UniversityKent Street, Bentley Western Australia 6102, Australia
| | - J Hallett
- Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - D Vujcich
- Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - ME Bellringer
- Gambling and Addictions Research Centre, School of Public Health and Interdisciplinary Studies, Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
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Abdool Karim S, Kruger P, Mazonde N, Erzse A, Goldstein S, Hofman K. Stakeholder arguments during the adoption of a sugar sweetened beverage tax in South Africa and their influence: a content analysis. Glob Health Action 2023; 16:2152638. [PMID: 36508172 PMCID: PMC9754008 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2022.2152638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) taxes are recognised as an effective intervention to prevent obesity. More countries are adopting SSB taxes, but the process of the adoption is politically complex. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to analyse how public participation processes influenced the South African tax. METHODS We conducted a content analysis of documents associated with the process of adopting the tax. Records were identified utilising the Parliamentary Monitoring Group database, including draft bills, meeting minutes and written submissions. The records were categorised and then inductively coded to identify themes and arguments. RESULTS We identified six cross-cutting themes advanced by stakeholders: economic considerations, impact on the vulnerable, responsiveness of an SSB tax to the problem of obesity, appropriateness of an SSB tax in South Africa, procedural concerns, and structure of the tax. Stakeholder views and arguments about the tax diverged based on their vested interests. The primary policymaker was most responsive to arguments concerning the economic impact of a tax, procedural concerns and the structure of the tax, reducing the effective rate to address industry concerns. CONCLUSION Both supportive and opposing stakeholders influenced the tax. Economic arguments had a significant impact. Arguments in South Africa broadly echoed arguments advanced in many other jurisdictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Safura Abdool Karim
- SAMRC Wits Centre for Health Economics and Decision Science (PRICELESS SA), Wits School of Public Health, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- College of Law and Management Studies, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Petronell Kruger
- SAMRC Wits Centre for Health Economics and Decision Science (PRICELESS SA), Wits School of Public Health, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Natasha Mazonde
- SAMRC Wits Centre for Health Economics and Decision Science (PRICELESS SA), Wits School of Public Health, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Agnes Erzse
- SAMRC Wits Centre for Health Economics and Decision Science (PRICELESS SA), Wits School of Public Health, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Susan Goldstein
- SAMRC Wits Centre for Health Economics and Decision Science (PRICELESS SA), Wits School of Public Health, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Karen Hofman
- SAMRC Wits Centre for Health Economics and Decision Science (PRICELESS SA), Wits School of Public Health, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Badu E, Hallett J, Vujcich D, Crawford G, Bellringer ME. Setting the scene: a scoping review of gambling research in Ghana. Health Promot Int 2023; 38:daad171. [PMID: 38091619 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daad171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Ghana, like many other African countries, has seen a rapid expansion in gambling industry activity in the last decade with sports betting becoming a popular pastime among young Ghanaian males. The proliferation of land based, and online gambling operations presents a significant public health threat to the citizenry. Yet little is known about gambling participation and harms, the size of the gambling market and the role of the gambling industry in influencing and perpetuating gambling behaviour in Ghana. The aim of this study was to contribute to understanding the extent of gambling research in Ghana by mapping out what the current literature indicates. Six databases were searched for peer-reviewed journal articles that focused on gambling in Ghana. The findings from this review demonstrate gambling research in Ghana is in a nascent state with a predominant focus on individual factors and limited consideration of public health. The implications for future research are highlighted, including the requirement for a nationally representative study to understand the prevalence of gambling participation and harm, and the role of the gambling industry. Public health action grounded in sound evidence is urgently required to address the individual and community level problems associated with this harmful commodity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Badu
- Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Population Health, Curtin University, Building 400, Kent Street, Bentley, Western Australia 6102, Australia
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Building 400, Kent Street, Bentley, Western Australia 6102, Australia
| | - Jonathan Hallett
- Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Population Health, Curtin University, Building 400, Kent Street, Bentley, Western Australia 6102, Australia
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Building 400, Kent Street, Bentley, Western Australia 6102, Australia
| | - Daniel Vujcich
- Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Population Health, Curtin University, Building 400, Kent Street, Bentley, Western Australia 6102, Australia
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Building 400, Kent Street, Bentley, Western Australia 6102, Australia
| | - Gemma Crawford
- Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Population Health, Curtin University, Building 400, Kent Street, Bentley, Western Australia 6102, Australia
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Building 400, Kent Street, Bentley, Western Australia 6102, Australia
| | - Maria E Bellringer
- Gambling and Addictions Research Centre, School of Public Health and Interdisciplinary Studies, Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, 90 Akoranga Drive, Northcote, Auckland 0627, New Zealand
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Nabyonga-Orem J, Christmals CD, Addai KF, Mwinga K, Karenzi-Muhongerwa D, Namuli S, Asamani JA. The nature and contribution of innovative health financing mechanisms in the World Health Organization African region: A scoping review. J Glob Health 2023; 13:04153. [PMID: 37962340 PMCID: PMC10644850 DOI: 10.7189/jogh.13.04153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Achieving financial risk protection for the whole population requires significant financing for health. Health systems in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) are plagued with persistent underfunding, and recent reductions in official development assistance have been registered. To create fiscal space for health, the pursuit of efficiency gains and exploring innovative health financing for health seem attractive. This paper sought to synthesize available evidence on the nature of innovative health financing instruments, mechanisms and policies implemented in Africa. We further reviewed the factors that hinder or facilitate implementation, the lessons learnt on the structure, the development process and the implementation. Methods We conducted a systematic scoping review of the literature to analyze the nature, type, and factors impacting the implementation of innovative health financing mechanisms in the World Health Organization (WHO) African region. Results Innovative health financing mechanisms are increasing in the WHO African region as a result of international policy, the need to improve healthy eating and social life of the populace, advocacy and the availability of international mechanisms to which countries can subscribe. The 41 documents included in this review reported ten innovative financing mechanisms in 43 out of the 47 WHO Africa region member states. The most common mechanisms include an excise tax on tobacco products (43 countries) and alcoholic beverages and spirits (41 countries), airline ticket levy (18 countries), sugar-based beverages tax (seven countries), and levy on oil, gas and mineral tax (four countries). Other mechanisms include the human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) trust fund, the social impact bond, the financial transaction tax, mobile phone tax and equity funds. Funds generated from many mechanisms are not allocated to health, although some portions are allocated to health-related activities. In some countries where mechanisms implemented are public health-related, emphasis is placed on positive health behavior beyond raising funds. Persistent resistance from industries due to conflicting economic policies is a major challenge. Conclusions Leveraging international policies and setting up intersectoral committees to develop and implement innovative mechanisms that involve excise taxes are recommended as possible solutions to the conflicts of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliet Nabyonga-Orem
- World Health Organization Regional office for Africa, Office of the Regional Director, Brazzaville, Congo
- Centre for Health Professions Education, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, South Africa
| | - Christmal D Christmals
- Centre for Health Professions Education, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, South Africa
| | - Kingsley F Addai
- World Health Organization Ghana country office, Universal Health Coverage Life Course Cluster, Accra, Ghana
| | - Kasonde Mwinga
- World Health Organization, Africa regional office, Universal Health Coverage Life Course Cluster, Brazzaville Congo
| | - Diane Karenzi-Muhongerwa
- World Health Organization, Africa regional office, Universal Health Coverage Life Course Cluster, Brazzaville Congo
| | - Sylvia Namuli
- World Health Organization, Africa regional office, Universal Health Coverage Life Course Cluster, Brazzaville Congo
| | - James A Asamani
- Centre for Health Professions Education, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, South Africa
- World Health Organization, Africa regional office, Universal Health Coverage Life Course Cluster, Brazzaville Congo
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Kruger P, Goldstein S, Hofman K. The passage and implementation of a Health Promotion Levy in South Africa as a case study of fair financing procedures. Health Policy Plan 2023; 38:i49-i58. [PMID: 37963079 PMCID: PMC10645051 DOI: 10.1093/heapol/czad068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Procedural fairness is an accepted requirement for health decision-making. Fair procedures promote the acceptability and quality of health decisions while simultaneously advancing broader goals of participatory democracy. We conducted a case study of the Sugary Beverage Tax in South Africa known as the Health Promotion Levy (HPL), which was legislated in 2018. The case study examines the process around the adoption of the HPL from the perspective of procedural fairness with the view of identifying local gaps and lessons transferable to other local decision-making processes and other jurisdictions. We conducted a desk review of publically available data relating to the passage and implementation of the HPL, including a review of the policy documents, public submissions during the public participation process, response documents from policymakers, review of national legislative committee minutes, legal instruments and academic literature capturing public awareness, stakeholder views and media content. The data collection is novel in terms of the large scope of data considered, as well as the variety of sources. An analytical framework consisting of key criteria for procedural fairness, informed by a scoping review of the literature, guided the analysis of the decision-making process in South Africa. The process of the adoption and passage of the HPL met the majority of the procedural fairness criteria. However, a shortcoming, which impacted several criteria, was the failure to actively source the participation of community representatives and the larger public. Non-governmental organizations did not adequately fulfil this representative role. Industry interests were also disproportionately considered. The case study highlights the overall importance of viewing general members of the public as interested parties in health policies and the dangers of over-involving policy opponents under a mistaken understanding that this constitutes meaningful public engagement in decision-making procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petronell Kruger
- The SAMRC/Wits Centre for Health Economics and Decision Science (PRICELESS SA), Wits School of Public Health, University of Witwatersrand, Office 233, 2nd floor, Wits Education Campus, 27 St Andrews Road, Parktown, Johannesburg 2197, South Africa
| | - Susan Goldstein
- The SAMRC/Wits Centre for Health Economics and Decision Science (PRICELESS SA), Wits School of Public Health, University of Witwatersrand, Office 233, 2nd floor, Wits Education Campus, 27 St Andrews Road, Parktown, Johannesburg 2197, South Africa
| | - Karen Hofman
- The SAMRC/Wits Centre for Health Economics and Decision Science (PRICELESS SA), Wits School of Public Health, University of Witwatersrand, Office 233, 2nd floor, Wits Education Campus, 27 St Andrews Road, Parktown, Johannesburg 2197, South Africa
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Mukanu MM, Thow AM, Delobelle P, Mchiza ZJR. Mapping of food environment policies in Zambia: a qualitative document analysis. BMC Nutr 2023; 9:112. [PMID: 37784146 PMCID: PMC10544488 DOI: 10.1186/s40795-023-00766-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The food environment in which people exercise food choices significantly impacts their dietary patterns. Policies that limit the availability, affordability, and access to unhealthy food while increasing that of healthier alternatives help build healthy food environments, which are required to address the double burden of malnutrition. This study aimed to assess the availability of food environment policies in Zambia. METHOD We applied a two-step qualitative document analysis to identify policy content relating to healthy food environments from global and Zambia-specific nutrition-related policy documents. In the first step, global policy documents were analyzed to develop a reference point for globally recommended policies for healthy food environments. In the second step, Zambia's nutrition-related policies were analyzed to identify content relating to healthy food environments. The identified policy content was then mapped against the global reference point to identify food environment policy gaps. RESULTS Our analysis of global policy recommendations identified five broad categories of policy provisions: information and education based; regulatory and legislative tools; strategies to promote production and access to healthy food production; social protection-based strategies and guiding principles for governments relating to multisectoral collaboration and governance. Our analysis found that Zambian Government policy documents in the health, agriculture, education, and national planning and development sectors have policy provisions for healthy food environments. While these policy provisions generally covered all five reference categories, we found policy gaps in the regulatory and legislative tools category relative to global recommendations. CONCLUSION Zambia's food environment policy landscape must include globally recommended regulatory and legislative policy measures like restricting the marketing of unhealthy foods and non-alcoholic beverages to children. Nutrition policy reforms are required to facilitate the introduction of regulatory and legislative policy measures that effectively address the double burden of malnutrition in Zambia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mulenga Mary Mukanu
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, 7535, South Africa.
| | - Anne Marie Thow
- Menzies Centre for Health Policy and Economics, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Peter Delobelle
- Chronic Disease Initiative for Africa, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa
- Department of Public Health, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Zandile June-Rose Mchiza
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, 7535, South Africa
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, 7505, South Africa
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Barnett-Naghshineh O, Warmington S, Altink H, Govia I, Morrissey K, Smith MJ, Thurstan RH, Unwin N, Guell C. Situating commercial determinants of health in their historical context: a qualitative study of sugar-sweetened beverages in Jamaica. Global Health 2023; 19:69. [PMID: 37700357 PMCID: PMC10498565 DOI: 10.1186/s12992-023-00962-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading cause of mortality across the Caribbean and similar regions. Structural determinants include a marked increase in the dependency on food imports, and the proliferation of processed foods, including sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs). We focused on Jamaica as a case study and the health challenge of SSBs, and situated contemporary actions, experiences and policies within their historical context to investigate underlying drivers of commercial determinants of health and attempts to counter them. We asked: how can a historical perspective of the drivers of high level SSB consumption in Jamaica contribute to an enhanced understanding of the context of public health policies aimed at reducing their intake? METHODS An ethnographic approach with remote data collection included online semi-structured interviews and workshops with 22 local experts and practitioners of health, agriculture and nutrition in Jamaica and attending relevant regional public webinars on SSBs and NCD action in the Caribbean. Our analysis was situated within a review of historical studies of Caribbean food economies with focus on the twentieth century. Jamaican and UK-based researchers collected and ethnographically analysed the data, and discussed findings with the wider transdisciplinary team. RESULTS We emphasise three key areas in which historical events have shaped contextual factors of SSB consumption. Trade privileged sugar as a cash crop over food production during Jamaica's long colonial history, and trade deregulation since the 1980s through structural adjustment opened markets to transnational companies. These changes increased Jamaican receptiveness to the mass advertisement and marketing of these companies, whilst long-standing power imbalances hampered taxation and regulation in contemporary public health actions. Civil society efforts were important for promoting structural changes to curb overconsumption of SSBs and decentring such entrenched power relations. CONCLUSION The contemporary challenge of SSBs in Jamaica is a poignant case study of commercial determinants of health and the important context of global market-driven economies and the involvement of private sector interests in public health policies and governance. Historically contextualising these determinants is paramount to making sense of the sugar ecology in Jamaica today and can help elucidate entrenched power dynamics and their key actors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sheray Warmington
- Epidemiology Research Unit, Caribbean Institute for Health Research (CAIHR), The University of the West Indies, Mona, Kingston, 7, Jamaica
| | - Henrice Altink
- Department of History and Interdisciplinary Global Development Centre, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Ishtar Govia
- Epidemiology Research Unit, Caribbean Institute for Health Research (CAIHR), The University of the West Indies, Mona, Kingston, 7, Jamaica
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Karyn Morrissey
- Climate and Energy Policy, Department of Technology, Management and Economics, Technical University Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, 2800, Denmark
| | - Matthew J Smith
- Department of History, University College London, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Ruth H Thurstan
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn, TR10 9FE, UK
| | - Nigel Unwin
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter, Penryn, TR10 9FE, UK
- Medical Research Council Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0SL, UK
| | - Cornelia Guell
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter, Penryn, TR10 9FE, UK.
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Ulucanlar S, Lauber K, Fabbri A, Hawkins B, Mialon M, Hancock L, Tangcharoensathien V, Gilmore AB. Corporate Political Activity: Taxonomies and Model of Corporate Influence on Public Policy. Int J Health Policy Manag 2023; 12:7292. [PMID: 37579378 PMCID: PMC10462073 DOI: 10.34172/ijhpm.2023.7292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) kill 41 million people a year. The products and services of unhealthy commodity industries (UCIs) such as tobacco, alcohol, ultra-processed foods and beverages and gambling are responsible for much of this health burden. While effective public health policies are available to address this, UCIs have consistently sought to stop governments and global organisations adopting such policies through what is known as corporate political activity (CPA). We aimed to contribute to the study of CPA and development of effective counter-measures by formulating a model and evidence-informed taxonomies of UCI political activity. METHODS We used five complementary methods: critical interpretive synthesis of the conceptual CPA literature; brief interviews; expert co-author knowledge; stakeholder workshops; testing against the literature. RESULTS We found 11 original conceptualisations of CPA; four had been used by other researchers and reported in 24 additional review papers. Combining an interpretive synthesis of all these papers and feedback from users, we developed two taxonomies - one on framing strategies and one on action strategies. The former identified three frames (policy actors, problem, and solutions) and the latter six strategies (access and influence policy-making, use the law, manufacture support for industry, shape evidence to manufacture doubt, displace, and usurp public health, manage reputations to industry's advantage). We also offer an analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of UCI strategies and a model that situates industry CPA in the wider social, political, and economic context. CONCLUSION Our work confirms the similarity of CPA across UCIs and demonstrates its extensive and multi-faceted nature, the disproportionate power of corporations in policy spaces and the unacceptable conflicts of interest that characterise their engagement with policy-making. We suggest that industry CPA is recognised as a corruption of democracy, not an element of participatory democracy. Our taxonomies and model provide a starting point for developing effective solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selda Ulucanlar
- Tobacco Control Research Group (TCRG), Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Kathrin Lauber
- School of Social and Political Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Alice Fabbri
- Tobacco Control Research Group (TCRG), Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Ben Hawkins
- MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Melissa Mialon
- Trinity Business School, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Linda Hancock
- Alfred Deakin Institute, Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Anna B. Gilmore
- Tobacco Control Research Group (TCRG), Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, UK
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Singh A, Smith K, Hellowell M, Logo DD, Marten R, Suu K, Owusu-Dabo E. An exploration of stakeholder views and perceptions on taxing tobacco, alcohol and sugar-sweetened beverages in Ghana. BMJ Glob Health 2023; 8:e012054. [PMID: 37257939 PMCID: PMC10255295 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2023-012054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) account for nearly 43% of Ghana's all-cause mortality. Unhealthy commodities (such as alcohol, sugar and tobacco) are an important factor in the growing NCD burden in the region of sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Despite health taxes on tobacco, alcohol and sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) gaining renewed attention, adoption and implementation in SSA remain limited. This study aims to unpack the contextual politics and to examine current perceptions of opportunities and barriers for health taxes in Ghana. METHODS Semistructured qualitative interviews (n=19) conducted with purposively sampled stakeholders representing four sectors: government, civil society, media and international organisations, and two group interviews with nine industry stakeholders, informed by a review of relevant literature and policy/advocacy documents. RESULTS Stakeholders had a general belief that such taxes are primarily useful for revenue generation (for health spending) rather than for reducing consumption and improving health. There do appear to be opportunities for health taxes with stakeholders broadly supportive of taxing SSBs. This support could be strengthened via 'health' framing of any new tax proposals, the generation of Ghana-specific evidence about the potential impacts of such taxes and greater public awareness. Industry actors and some government representatives opposed health taxes, citing concerns about the potential to increase illicit trade and economic harm. Some stakeholders also believed that links between politicians and affected industries represent an important barrier. CONCLUSION These findings identify opportunities to introduce health taxes but also underline the potential resistance from affected industry stakeholders. Nevertheless, a strategic approach that focuses on achieving policy coherence (between central government, health and economic ministries), combined with efforts to strengthen stakeholder and public support, may weaken the lobbying position of industry. Such efforts could be supported by research to help demonstrate the value of different designs of health taxes for achieving Ghana's health goals and to better understand industry-political links.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arti Singh
- School of Public Health, KNUST, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Katherine Smith
- School of Social Work and Social Policy, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
| | - Mark Hellowell
- School of Social and Political Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Robert Marten
- WHO Alliance for Health Policy and Systems Research, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Kaung Suu
- Alliance For Health Policy and System Research, Geneva, Switzerland
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Gilmore AB, Fabbri A, Baum F, Bertscher A, Bondy K, Chang HJ, Demaio S, Erzse A, Freudenberg N, Friel S, Hofman KJ, Johns P, Abdool Karim S, Lacy-Nichols J, de Carvalho CMP, Marten R, McKee M, Petticrew M, Robertson L, Tangcharoensathien V, Thow AM. Defining and conceptualising the commercial determinants of health. Lancet 2023; 401:1194-1213. [PMID: 36966782 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(23)00013-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 129.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 04/07/2023]
Abstract
Although commercial entities can contribute positively to health and society there is growing evidence that the products and practices of some commercial actors-notably the largest transnational corporations-are responsible for escalating rates of avoidable ill health, planetary damage, and social and health inequity; these problems are increasingly referred to as the commercial determinants of health. The climate emergency, the non-communicable disease epidemic, and that just four industry sectors (ie, tobacco, ultra-processed food, fossil fuel, and alcohol) already account for at least a third of global deaths illustrate the scale and huge economic cost of the problem. This paper, the first in a Series on the commercial determinants of health, explains how the shift towards market fundamentalism and increasingly powerful transnational corporations has created a pathological system in which commercial actors are increasingly enabled to cause harm and externalise the costs of doing so. Consequently, as harms to human and planetary health increase, commercial sector wealth and power increase, whereas the countervailing forces having to meet these costs (notably individuals, governments, and civil society organisations) become correspondingly impoverished and disempowered or captured by commercial interests. This power imbalance leads to policy inertia; although many policy solutions are available, they are not being implemented. Health harms are escalating, leaving health-care systems increasingly unable to cope. Governments can and must act to improve, rather than continue to threaten, the wellbeing of future generations, development, and economic growth.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alice Fabbri
- Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Fran Baum
- Stretton Health Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | | | - Krista Bondy
- Stirling Management School, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | - Ha-Joon Chang
- Department of Economics, School of Oriental and African Studies University of London, London, UK
| | - Sandro Demaio
- Victorian Health Promotion Foundation, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Agnes Erzse
- South African Medical Research Council/Wits Centre for Health Economics and Decision Science, Wits School of Public Health, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Nicholas Freudenberg
- Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sharon Friel
- Menzies Centre for Health Governance, School of Regulation and Global Governance, The Australian National University, Acton, ACT, Australia
| | - Karen J Hofman
- South African Medical Research Council/Wits Centre for Health Economics and Decision Science, Wits School of Public Health, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Paula Johns
- ACT Health Promotion, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Safura Abdool Karim
- South African Medical Research Council/Wits Centre for Health Economics and Decision Science, Wits School of Public Health, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Jennifer Lacy-Nichols
- Centre for Health Policy, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Robert Marten
- Alliance for Health Policy and Systems Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Martin McKee
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Mark Petticrew
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Lindsay Robertson
- Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | | | - Anne Marie Thow
- Menzies Centre for Health Policy and Economics, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Hendricks L, Uwimana-Nicol J, Young T. Decision makers perceptions and experiences of developing population-level interventions targeting risk factors for hypertension and diabetes in South Africa: a qualitative study. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:146. [PMID: 36774509 PMCID: PMC9918811 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09135-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People in low- and middle-income countries are disproportionately affected by Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). NCD's such as heart disease, cancer, chronic respiratory disease, and diabetes, are the leading cause of premature death worldwide and represent an emerging global health threat. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore decision makers perceptions of developing population-level interventions (policies and programmes), targeting risk factors for hypertension and diabetes, in South Africa. METHODS Using purposive sampling we recruited fifteen participants, who were well informed about the policies, programs or supportive environment for prevention and management of diabetes and hypertension in South Africa. We conducted 12 individual interviews and 1 group interview (consisting of 3 participants). Data was analysed thematically in NVivo. The results were shared and discussed in two consultative stakeholder workshops, with participants, as part of a member validation process in qualitative research. All communication with participants was done virtually using MS Teams or ZOOM. RESULTS For development of population-level interventions, key enablers included, stakeholders' engagement and collaboration, contextualization of policies and programs, and evaluation and organic growth. Challenges for supportive policy and program formulation, and to enable supportive environments, included the lack of time and resources, lack of consultation with stakeholders, regulations and competing priorities, and ineffective monitoring and evaluation. The main drivers of population-level interventions for diabetes and hypertension were perceived as the current contextual realities, costs, organizational reasons, and communication between various stakeholders. CONCLUSION To address the risk factors for hypertension and diabetes in South Africa, policies and programs must account for the needs of the public and the historical and socio-economic climate. Feasibility and sustainability of programs can only be ensured when the resources are provided, and environments enabled to promote behavior change on a population-level. A holistic public health approach, which is contextually relevant, and evidence informed, is considered best practice in the formulation of population-level interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynn Hendricks
- Division of Health Systems and Public Health, Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
- Social Research Methodology Group, Faculty of Social Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Jeannine Uwimana-Nicol
- Division of Health Systems and Public Health, Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kicukiro- Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Taryn Young
- Centre for Evidence Based Health Care, Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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12
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McCreedy N, Shung-King M, Weimann A, Tatah L, Mapa-Tassou C, Muzenda T, Govia I, Were V, Oni T. Reducing Sugar Intake in South Africa: Learnings from a Multilevel Policy Analysis on Diet and Noncommunicable Disease Prevention. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:11828. [PMID: 36142100 PMCID: PMC9517510 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191811828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
High sugar intake contributes to diet-related excess weight and obesity and is a key determinant for noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The World Health Organization (WHO) gives specific advice on limiting sugar intake in adults and children. Yet, to what extent have policy ideas on sugar intake reduction originating at the global level found expression at lower levels of policymaking? A systematic policy document analysis identified policies issued at the African regional, South African national and Western Cape provincial levels between 2000 and 2020 using search terms related to sugar, sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs), and NCDs. Forty-eight policy documents were included in the review, most were global and national policies and thus the focus of analysis. A policy transfer conceptual framework was applied. Global recommendations for effectively tackling unhealthy diets and NCDs advise implementing a mix of cost-effective policy options that employ a multisectoral approach. South African country-level policy action has followed the explicit global guidance, and ideas on reducing sugar intake have found expression in sectors outside of health, to a limited extent. As proposed in this paper, with the adoption of the SSB health tax and other policy measures, South Africa's experience offers several learnings for other LMICs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole McCreedy
- Health Policy and Systems Division, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7925, South Africa
| | - Maylene Shung-King
- Health Policy and Systems Division, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7925, South Africa
| | - Amy Weimann
- Research Initiative for Cities Health and Equity (RICHE), Division of Public Health Medicine, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7925, South Africa
- African Centre for Cities, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7701, South Africa
| | - Lambed Tatah
- Health of Populations in Transition Research Group (HoPiT), University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé P.O. Box 812, Cameroon
- Global Diet and Physical Activity Research Group, Medical Research Council Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Clarisse Mapa-Tassou
- Health of Populations in Transition Research Group (HoPiT), University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé P.O. Box 812, Cameroon
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Dschang, Dschang P.O. Box 96, Cameroon
| | - Trish Muzenda
- Research Initiative for Cities Health and Equity (RICHE), Division of Public Health Medicine, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7925, South Africa
- Global Diet and Physical Activity Research Group, Medical Research Council Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Ishtar Govia
- Caribbean Institute for Health Research, The University of the West Indies, Kingston 7, Jamaica
| | - Vincent Were
- Center for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kisumu 40100, Kenya
| | - Tolu Oni
- Research Initiative for Cities Health and Equity (RICHE), Division of Public Health Medicine, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7925, South Africa
- Global Diet and Physical Activity Research Group, Medical Research Council Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
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Tangcharoensathien V, Sudhakar M, Birhanu Z, Abraham G, Bawah A, Kyei P, Biney A, Shroff ZC, Witthayapipopsakul W, Panichkriangkrai W. Health Policy and Systems Research Capacities in Ethiopia and Ghana: Findings From a Self-Assessment. GLOBAL HEALTH: SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2022; 10:GHSP-D-21-00715. [PMID: 36109057 PMCID: PMC9476481 DOI: 10.9745/ghsp-d-21-00715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Government investment in strengthening health policy and systems research capacities is needed to enhance the generation of evidence for effective policy making. Researchers’ engagement in the policy-making process helps shape policy-relevant research and support policy-relevant decisions. Introduction: Health systems are complex. Policies targeted at health system development may be informed by health policy and systems research (HPSR). This study assesses HPSR capacity to generate evidence and inform policy in Ethiopia and Ghana. Methods: We used a mixed-methods approach including a self-administered survey at selected HPSR institutes and in-depth interviews of policy makers. Results: Both countries have limited capacity to generate HPSR evidence, especially in terms of mobilizing adequate funding and retaining a critical number of competent researchers who understand complex policy processes, have the skills to influence policy, and know policy makers’ demands for evidence. Common challenges are limited government research funding, rigidity in executing the research budget, and reliance on donor funding that might not respond to national health priorities. There are no large research programs in either country. The annual number of HPSR projects per research institute in Ethiopia (10 projects) was higher than in Ghana (2.5 projects), Ethiopia has a significantly smaller annual budget for health research. Policy makers in the 2 countries increasingly recognize the importance of evidence-informed policy making, but various challenges remain in building effective interactions with HPSR institutes. Conclusion: We propose 3 synergistic recommendations to strengthen HPSR capacity in Ethiopia and Ghana. First, strengthen researchers’ capacity and enhance their opportunities to know policy actors; engage with the policy community; and identify and work with policy entrepreneurs, who have attributes, skills, and strategies to achieve a successful policy. Second, deliver policy-relevant research findings in a timely way and embed research into key health programs to guide effective implementation. Third, mobilize local and international funding to strengthen HPSR capacities as well as address challenges with recruiting and retaining a critical number of talented researchers. These recommendations may be applied to other low- and middle-income countries to strengthen HPSR capacities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Zewdie Birhanu
- Jimma Institute of Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Gelila Abraham
- Jimma Institute of Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Ayaga Bawah
- Regional Institute of Population Studies, Accra, Ghana
| | - Pearl Kyei
- Regional Institute of Population Studies, Accra, Ghana
| | - Adriana Biney
- Regional Institute of Population Studies, Accra, Ghana
| | - Zubin Cyrus Shroff
- Alliance for Health Policy and Systems Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
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14
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Lauber K, Rippin H, Wickramasinghe K, Gilmore AB. Corporate political activity in the context of sugar-sweetened beverage tax policy in the WHO European Region. Eur J Public Health 2022; 32:786-793. [PMID: 36099153 PMCID: PMC9527967 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckac117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) taxes have emerged as an effective and increasingly popular tool to reduce added sugar intake, an important contributor to obesity and non-communicable diseases. A common barrier to the implementation of well-designed SSB taxes is the opposition of commercial actors. Focusing on the WHO European Region, this study seeks to map if and how key stakeholders have experienced industry efforts to influence SSB taxes. METHODS We identified 11 countries in the WHO European Region which have implemented SSB taxes or attempted to do so. Using an online survey informed by the global literature on industry interference with SSB taxation, we approached 70 in-country policymakers, advocates and academics. The data were analysed using an existing framework of corporate political activity. RESULTS Twenty-three experts from nine countries responded to the survey. Transnational SSB producers and their business associations were identified as the most active opponents of SSB taxation. Industry claims that the policy would have negative economic effects were identified as the most common and powerful arguments. Direct lobbying was reported in all study countries. Shifts in political activity were recognisable across stages of the policy process, moving from outright opposition to attempts to delay or weaken the policy after its announcement. CONCLUSION Those seeking to introduce effective SSB taxation can use our findings to pre-empt and counter industry opposition. We identify several measures for preventing and mitigating industry interference with SSB tax policy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Holly Rippin
- WHO European Office for the Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD Office), Division of Country Health Programmes, WHO Regional Office for Europe, Moscow, Russia
| | - Kremlin Wickramasinghe
- WHO European Office for the Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD Office), Division of Country Health Programmes, WHO Regional Office for Europe, Moscow, Russia
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15
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Edmondson EK, Shea JA, Gregory EF, Roberto CA, Garcia SM, Kwon J, Virudachalam S. Low-income parents' perceptions of a sweetened beverage tax in Philadelphia. J Nutr Sci 2022; 11:e67. [PMID: 36106086 PMCID: PMC9428665 DOI: 10.1017/jns.2022.64] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To characterise perceptions of the Philadelphia Beverage Tax among low-income parents. Design: We conducted semi-structured interviews and administered demographic questions via telephone. We based the interview guide and initial codebook on a conceptual model illustrating perceived fairness and effectiveness as essential for successfully adopting food policies. We performed thematic analysis using NVivo 12. Setting: We recruited from a primary care paediatrics clinic in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania from July to August 2020. Participants: Philadelphia parents/caregivers of 2- to 11-year-old children with Medicaid insurance. Results: Participants were predominantly African American (97 %), female (100 %), and had annual household incomes <$50 000 (80 %). Participants were 26- to 72-years old, with an average aged child of 5 years (range 7 months to 20 years). Themes emerged regarding tax perceptions, revenue use and behaviour change due to the tax. Using revenue for highly valued programmes and accountability of city government to use revenue as promised were critical elements in perceptions of tax fairness. Some parents avoided the tax through cross-border shopping and buying drink powders or concentrates, influencing perceptions of tax effectiveness. The tax signalled the health dangers of sweetened beverage consumption to most parents. Conclusion: Our findings bring to light four key takeaways for policymakers designing sweetened beverage taxes. (1) Dedication of tax revenue to programmes highly valued by parents and (2) transparency in revenue spending may improve acceptability. (3) State or national taxes may be more effective at decreasing consumption due to cross-border shopping. (4) Pairing taxes with health promotion campaigns may enhance behaviour change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma K. Edmondson
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Judy A. Shea
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Emily F. Gregory
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Christina A. Roberto
- Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Stephanie M. Garcia
- Policy Lab, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Roberts Center for Pediatric Research, 2716 South St, 10th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19146, USA
| | - Jeemin Kwon
- Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Senbagam Virudachalam
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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16
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Erzse A, Karim SA, Foley L, Hofman KJ. A realist review of voluntary actions by the food and beverage industry and implications for public health and policy in low- and middle-income countries. NATURE FOOD 2022; 3:650-663. [PMID: 37118592 DOI: 10.1038/s43016-022-00552-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
The increasing availability of unhealthy processed food products is linked to rising rates of non-communicable diseases and obesity in low- and middle-income countries. Voluntary actions (VAs) are often adopted in lieu of regulating the composition, production, marketing and sale of unhealthy commodities, but their effectiveness is unclear. This realist review examines VAs adopted by the food and beverage industry in low- and middle-income countries. We developed a conceptual framework and followed a three-stage search to identify literature and VAs and, adhering to the Realist and Meta-narrative Evidence Syntheses: Evolving Standards (RAMESES) guidelines, we produced a synthesized analysis of VAs. VAs, often initiated in response to governments' efforts to introduce regulations, were difficult to evaluate due to vague language and a lack of enforcement mechanisms. The review found no evidence indicating that VAs are effective in safeguarding public health. Yet their implementation has resulted in weaker responses and policy substitution, and so we suggest that VAs have the potential to negatively influence public health and policy. The United Nations should rescind their endorsement of industry involvement and mandatory measures should be favoured over VAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnes Erzse
- SAMRC/Wits Centre for Health Economics and Decision Science - PRICELESS SA, University of Witwatersrand School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - Safura Abdool Karim
- SAMRC/Wits Centre for Health Economics and Decision Science - PRICELESS SA, University of Witwatersrand School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Louise Foley
- MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Karen Joanne Hofman
- SAMRC/Wits Centre for Health Economics and Decision Science - PRICELESS SA, University of Witwatersrand School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Johannesburg, South Africa
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17
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Lacy-Nichols J, Williams O. "Part of the Solution": Food Corporation Strategies for Regulatory Capture and Legitimacy. Int J Health Policy Manag 2021; 10:845-856. [PMID: 34634883 PMCID: PMC9309978 DOI: 10.34172/ijhpm.2021.111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND For decades, the food industry has sought to deflect criticisms of its products and block public health legislation through a range of offensive and defensive strategies. More recently, food corporations have moved on to present themselves as "part of the solution" to the health problems their products cause. This strategic approach is characterised by appeasement, co-option and partnership, and involves incremental concessions and attempts to partner with health actors. This paper details how corporate practices have evolved and changed over the past two decades and gives some definition to what this new political economy signifies for the wider behaviours of corporations producing and selling harmful commodities. METHODS This paper draws on public health and political science literature to classify the food industry's "part of the solution" strategy into three broad components: regulatory responses and capture; relationship building; and market strategies. We detail the key characteristics and consequences of each component. RESULTS The three components of the food industry's "part of the solution" strategy all involve elements of appeasement and co-option. They also improve the political environment and resources of the food industry. Regulatory responses offer incremental concessions that seek to maintain corporate influence over governance processes and minimise the threat of regulations; relationship building fosters access to health and government stakeholders, and opportunities to acquire and maintain channels of direct influence; and market strategies to make products and portfolios healthier bolster the market share and revenue of food corporations while improving their public image. CONCLUSION Rather being a signal of lost position and power, the food industry's repositioning as "part of the solution" has created a highly profitable political economy of 'healthy' food production, alongside continued production of unhealthy commodities, a strategy in which it is also less burdensome and conflictual for corporations to exercise political power and influence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Lacy-Nichols
- Centre for Health Policy, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Owain Williams
- School of Politics and International Studies, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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18
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Hofman KJ, Stacey N, Swart EC, Popkin BM, Ng SW. South Africa's Health Promotion Levy: Excise tax findings and equity potential. Obes Rev 2021; 22:e13301. [PMID: 34060197 PMCID: PMC8349837 DOI: 10.1111/obr.13301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
In 2016, the South African government proposed a 20% sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) tax. Protracted consultations with beverage manufacturers and the sugar industry followed. This resulted in a lower sugar-based beverage tax, the Health Promotion Levy (HPL), of approximately 10% coming into effect in April 2018. We provide a synthesis of findings until April 2021. Studies show that despite the lower rate, purchases of unhealthy SSBs and sugar intake consumption from SSBs fell. There were greater reductions in SSB purchases among both lower socioeconomic groups and in subpopulations with higher SSB consumption. These subpopulations bear larger burdens from obesity and related diseases, suggesting that this policy improves health equity. The current COVID-19 pandemic has impacted food and nutritional security. Increased pandemic mortality among people with obesity, diabetes, and hypertension highlight the importance of intersectoral public health disease-prevention policies like the HPL, which should be strengthened.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen J Hofman
- SAMRCCentre for Health Economics and Decision Science-PRICELESS SA, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, Republic of South Africa
| | - Nicholas Stacey
- SAMRCCentre for Health Economics and Decision Science-PRICELESS SA, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, Republic of South Africa.,Department of Health Policy, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| | - Elizabeth C Swart
- Department of Dietetics and Nutrition, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, Republic of South Africa.,DST/NRF Center of Excellence in Food Security, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, Republic of South Africa
| | - Barry M Popkin
- Department of Nutrition, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.,Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Shu Wen Ng
- Department of Nutrition, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.,Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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19
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Lauber K, McGee D, Gilmore AB. Commercial use of evidence in public health policy: a critical assessment of food industry submissions to global-level consultations on non-communicable disease prevention. BMJ Glob Health 2021; 6:e006176. [PMID: 34426403 PMCID: PMC8383892 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2021-006176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ultra-processed food industry (UPFI) actors have consistently opposed statutory regulation in health policy debates, including at the WHO. They do so most commonly with claims that regulatory policies do not work, will have negative consequences or that alternatives such as self-regulation work well or better. Underlying this are often assertions that industry is aligned with principles of evidence-based policymaking. In this study, we interrogate if this holds true by exploring the extent and quality of the evidence UPFI respondents employed to support claims around regulatory policy, and how they did this. METHODS First, we identified all submissions from organisations who overtly represent UPFI companies to consultations held by the WHO on non-communicable disease policy between 2016 and 2018. Second, we extracted all relevant factual claims made in these submissions and noted if any evidence was referenced in support. Third, we assessed the quality of evidence using independence from UPFI, nature, and publication route as indicators. Lastly, where peer-reviewed research was cited, we examined if the claims made could be justified by the source cited. RESULTS Across 26 included consultation responses, factual claims around regulation were made in 18, although only 10 referenced any evidence at all. Of all 114 claims made, 39 pieces of identifiable evidence were cited in support of 56 claims. Of the 39 distinct pieces of evidence, two-thirds were industry-funded or industry-linked, with only 16 externally peer-reviewed. Over half of industry-funded or industry-linked academic articles failed to declare a conflict of interest (COI). Overall, of only six claims which drew on peer-reviewed and independent research, none appropriately represented the source. DISCUSSION UPFI respondents made far-reaching claims which were rarely supported by high-quality, independent evidence. This indicates that there may be few, if any, benefits from consulting actors with such a clear COI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin Lauber
- Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, Somerset, UK
| | - Darragh McGee
- Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, Somerset, UK
| | - Anna B Gilmore
- Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, Somerset, UK
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20
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Frank T, Thow AM, Ng SW, Ostrowski J, Bopape M, Swart EC. A Fit-for-Purpose Nutrient Profiling Model to Underpin Food and Nutrition Policies in South Africa. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13082584. [PMID: 34444744 PMCID: PMC8401225 DOI: 10.3390/nu13082584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2021] [Revised: 07/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
South Africa (SA) is facing a rising prevalence of obesity and diet-related chronic diseases. The government is seeking to develop effective, evidence-based policy measures to address this. A well-designed, fit-for-purpose nutrient profiling model (NPM) can aid policy development. The aim of this study was to develop a fit-for-purpose NPM in SA. Steps included: (1) determining the purpose and target population; (2) selecting appropriate nutrients and other food components to include; (3) selecting a suitable NPM type, criteria and base; and (4) selecting appropriate numbers and thresholds. As part of the evaluation, the nutritional composition of packaged foods containing nutritional information (n = 6747) in the SA food supply chain was analyzed, a literature review was undertaken and various NPMs were evaluated. Our findings indicated that it is most appropriate to adapt an NPM and underpin regulation with a restrictive NPM that limits unhealthy food components. The Chile 2019 NPM was identified as suitable to adapt, and total sugar, saturated fat, sodium and non-sugar sweetener were identified as appropriate to restrict. This NPM has the potential to underpin restrictive policies, such as front-of-package labelling and child-directed marketing regulations in SA. These policies will support the fight against obesity and NCDs in the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamryn Frank
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, Cape Town 7535, South Africa
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +27-084-782-9035
| | - Anne-Marie Thow
- Menzies Centre for Health Policy, School of Public Health, Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia;
| | - Shu Wen Ng
- Department of Nutrition, Gillings School of Global Public Health and the Carolina Population Center, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7400, USA; (S.W.N.); (J.O.)
| | - Jessica Ostrowski
- Department of Nutrition, Gillings School of Global Public Health and the Carolina Population Center, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7400, USA; (S.W.N.); (J.O.)
| | - Makoma Bopape
- Department of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Limpopo, Polokwane 0727, South Africa;
| | - Elizabeth C. Swart
- Department of Dietetics and Nutrition, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town 7535, South Africa;
- DSI/NRF Centre of Excellence in Food Security, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town 7535, South Africa
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21
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Thow AM, Abdool Karim S, Mukanu MM, Ahaibwe G, Wanjohi M, Gaogane L, Amukugo HJ, Ruhara CM, Ngoma T, Asiki G, Erzse A, Hofman K. The political economy of sugar-sweetened beverage taxation: an analysis from seven countries in sub-Saharan Africa. Glob Health Action 2021; 14:1909267. [PMID: 33877032 PMCID: PMC8078959 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2021.1909267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Non-communicable diseases are on the rise across sub-Saharan Africa. The region has become a targeted growth market for sugar-sweetened beverages, which are associated with weight gain, cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.Objective: To identify politico-economic factors relevant to nutrition-related fiscal policies, and to draw lessons regarding strategies to strengthen sugar-sweetened beverages taxation in the region and globally.Methods: We collected documentary data on policy content, stakeholders and corporate political activity from seven countries in east and southern Africa augmented by qualitative interviews in Botswana, Namibia, Kenya and Zambia, and stakeholder consultations in Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda. Data were analysed using a political economy framework, focusing on ideas, institutions, interests and power, and a 'bricolage' approach was employed to identify strategies for future action.Results: Non-communicable diseases were recognised as a priority in all countries. Kenya, Zambia, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda had taxes on non-alcoholic beverages, which varied in rate and tax base, but appeared to be motivated by revenue rather than health concerns. Botswana and Namibia indicated intention to adopt sugar-sweetened beverage taxes. Health-oriented sugar-sweetened beverage taxation faced challenges from entrenched economic policy paradigms for industry-led economic growth and was actively opposed by sugar-sweetened beverage-related industries. Strategies identified to support stronger sugar-sweetened beverage taxation included shifting the economic discourse to strengthen health considerations, developing positive public opinion, forging links with the agriculture sector for shared benefit, and leadership by a central government agency.Conclusions: There are opportunities for more strategic public health engagement with the economic sector to foster strong nutrition-related fiscal policy for non-communicable disease prevention in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Marie Thow
- Menzies Centre for Health Policy, School of Public Health, Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Safura Abdool Karim
- SAMRC/Centre for Health Economics and Decision Science - Priority Cost Effective Lessons for Systems Strengthening (PRICELESS SA), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Mulenga M Mukanu
- Health Policy and Management Unit, University of Zambia School of Public Health, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Gemma Ahaibwe
- Economic Policy Research Centre (EPRC), Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Lebogang Gaogane
- Department of Health Promotion & Education, Boitekanelo College, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Hans Justus Amukugo
- Community Health Department, School of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
| | | | - Twalib Ngoma
- Economic Social Research Foundation (ESFR), Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | - Agnes Erzse
- SAMRC/Centre for Health Economics and Decision Science - Priority Cost Effective Lessons for Systems Strengthening (PRICELESS SA), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Karen Hofman
- SAMRC/Centre for Health Economics and Decision Science - Priority Cost Effective Lessons for Systems Strengthening (PRICELESS SA), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Ahaibwe G, Abdool Karim S, Thow AM, Erzse A, Hofman K. Barriers to, and facilitators of, the adoption of a sugar sweetened beverage tax to prevent non-communicable diseases in Uganda: a policy landscape analysis. Glob Health Action 2021; 14:1892307. [PMID: 33874854 PMCID: PMC8078933 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2021.1892307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Uganda is experiencing an increase in nutrition-related non-communicable diseases. Risk factors include overconsumption of sugar-sweetened beverages. Fiscal and taxation policies aim to make the consumption of healthier foods easier. However, the adoption and implementation of fiscal policies by countries are constrained by political and economic challenges. Objective We investigated the policy and political landscape related to the prevention of nutrition-related non-communicable diseases in Uganda to identify barriers to and facilitators of the adoption of sugar-sweetened beverage taxation in Uganda. Methods A desk-based policy analysis of policies related to nutrition-related non-communicable diseases and sugar-sweetened beverage taxation was conducted. Four key informant consultations (n = 4) were conducted to verify the policy review and to gain further insight into the policy and stakeholder contexts. Analysis was framed by Kingdon’s theory of agenda setting and policy change. Results Nutrition-related non-communicable diseases were recognised as an emerging problem in Uganda. The Government has adopted a comprehensive approach to improve diets, but implementation is slow. There is limited recognition of the consumption of sugar and sugar-sweetened beverages as a contributor to the nutrition-related non-communicable disease burden in policy documents. Existing taxes on soft drinks are lower than the World Health Organization’s recommended rate of 20% and do not target sugar content. The soft drink industry has been influential in framing the taxation debate, and the Ministry of Finance previously reduced taxation of sugar-sweetened beverages. Maintaining competitiveness in a regional market is an important business strategy. However, the Ministry of Health and other public health actors in civil society have been successful (albeit marginally) in countering reductions in taxation, which are supported by industry. Conclusions An established platform for sugar-sweetened beverage taxation advocacy exists in Uganda. Compelling local research that explicitly links soft drink taxes to health goals is essential to advance sugar-sweetened beverage taxation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Ahaibwe
- Economic Policy Research Centre (EPRC), Makerere University, Makerere, Uganda
| | - Safura Abdool Karim
- SAMRC Centre for Health Economic and Decision Science - Priority Cost Effective Lessons for Systems Strengthening (PRICELESS SA), University of the Witwatersrand, School of Public Health, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Anne-Marie Thow
- Menzies Centre for Health Policy, School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Agnes Erzse
- SAMRC Centre for Health Economic and Decision Science - Priority Cost Effective Lessons for Systems Strengthening (PRICELESS SA), University of the Witwatersrand, School of Public Health, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Karen Hofman
- SAMRC Centre for Health Economic and Decision Science - Priority Cost Effective Lessons for Systems Strengthening (PRICELESS SA), University of the Witwatersrand, School of Public Health, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Ruhara CM, Abdool Karim S, Erzse A, Thow AM, Ntirampeba S, Hofman KJ. Strengthening prevention of nutrition-related non-communicable diseases through sugar-sweetened beverages tax in Rwanda: a policy landscape analysis. Glob Health Action 2021; 14:1883911. [PMID: 33876706 PMCID: PMC8079049 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2021.1883911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Food and beverages high in sugar are recognized to be among the major risk factors for nutrition-related non-communicable diseases. The growing presence of ultra-processed food producers has resulted in shifts to diets that are associated with non-communicable diseases and which include sugar-sweetened beverages. Sugar-sweetened beverage taxation presents an opportunity to prevent non-communicable diseases but it comes with challenges. Objectives: To describe the policy landscape, identify and analyse the facilitators of and barriers to strengthening taxation on sugar-sweetened beverages in Rwanda. Methods: We conducted a desk-based policy analysis to assess the facilitators of and barriers to strengthening sugary beverage taxation policy. We consulted eight stakeholders to validate the findings of the desk review. Results: Non-communicable diseases are recognized as a public health challenge in Government health and non-health policy documents. However, sugar intake is not explicitly identified as a risk factor for non-communicable diseases and existing policies do not clearly aim to reduce sugar consumption. The Rwandan Government's commitment to growing the local sugar industry and the substantial economic contribution of Rwandan beverage producers are potential barriers to fiscal policies aimed at reducing sugar consumption. However, the current 39% excise tax levied on all soft drinks could support the adoption of future sugar-sweetened beverage policies. Conclusions: The landscape for strengthening a sugar-sweetened beverage tax in Rwanda is complex. The policy environment provides both facilitators of and impediments to strengthening the existing tax. A differential tax could be introduced by leveraging on the existing excise tax and linking it to the sugar content of beverages.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Safura Abdool Karim
- SAMRC Centre for Health Economics and Decision Science Research-PRICELESS SA, University of the Witwatersrand, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Agnes Erzse
- SAMRC Centre for Health Economics and Decision Science Research-PRICELESS SA, University of the Witwatersrand, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Anne-Marie Thow
- Menzies Centre for Health Policy, School of Public Health, Charles Perkins Centre (D17), The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Karen J Hofman
- SAMRC Centre for Health Economics and Decision Science Research-PRICELESS SA, University of the Witwatersrand, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Lauber K, Rutter H, Gilmore AB. Big food and the World Health Organization: a qualitative study of industry attempts to influence global-level non-communicable disease policy. BMJ Glob Health 2021; 6:e005216. [PMID: 34117011 PMCID: PMC8202098 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2021-005216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is an urgent need for effective action to address the over 10 million annual deaths attributable to unhealthy diets. Food industry interference with policies aimed at reducing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) is widely documented at the national level but remains under-researched at the global level. Thus, this study explores how ultra-processed food industry actors have attempted to influence NCD policy at WHO. METHODS A combination of inductive and deductive thematic coding of internal industry documents, academic literature and interviews with key informants from international organisations and global civil society was used to identify action-based strategies ultra-processed food industry actors employ to influence global-level policy. RESULTS Ultra-processed food industry actors have attempted to influence WHO and its policies through three main action-based strategies: coalition management, involvement in policy formulation, and information management. Coalition management includes the creation and use of overt alliances between corporations-business associations-and more covert science-focused and policy-focused intermediaries, the hiring of former WHO staff and attempted co-option of civil society organisations. Industry involvement in policy formulation is operationalised largely through the lobbying of Member States to support industry positions, and business associations gaining access to WHO through formal consultations and hearings. Information management involves funding and disseminating research favourable to commercial interests, and challenging unfavourable evidence. CONCLUSION We provide novel insights into how ultra-processed food industry actors shape global-level NCD policy and identify a clear need to guard against commercial interference to advance NCD policy. In their approach, the political behaviour of multinational food corporations bears similarities to that of the tobacco industry. Increased awareness of, and safeguarding against, commercial interference at the national as well as the global level have the potential to strengthen the crucial work of WHO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin Lauber
- Tobacco Control Research Group, Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Harry Rutter
- Department of Social and Policy Sciences, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Anna B Gilmore
- Tobacco Control Research Group, Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, UK
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Amukugo HJ, Abdool Karim S, Thow AM, Erzse A, Kruger P, Karera A, Hofman K. Barriers to, and facilitators of, the adoption of a sugar sweetened beverage tax to prevent non-communicable diseases in Namibia: a policy landscape analysis. Glob Health Action 2021; 14:1903213. [PMID: 33876708 PMCID: PMC8079035 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2021.1903213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Nutrition-related non-communicable diseases contribute to approximately half of the premature deaths in Namibia. Westernisation and urbanisation of communities have resulted in changing dietary patterns that see people eating more refined and high sugar content foods that are a risk for nutrition-related non-communicable diseases. Sugar-sweetened beverage taxation has been found to influence consumer purchasing behaviour and to raise revenue for health-promoting activity in other low- and middle-income countries.Objectives: To analyse Namibia's non-communicable diseases prevention policy landscape and assess the readiness of the Government to adopt sugar-sweetened beverage taxation policies for public health.Methods: Government policy documents relating to nutrition-related non-communicable diseases were analysed, utilising predetermined variables based on policy theory. Thirteen key informant interviews were conducted with stakeholders from Government, non-governmental organisations and academic institutions. Data sets were analysed utilising Kingdon's analytical theory for agenda setting.Results: Nutrition-related non-communicable diseases are an increasing problem that requires immediate action. Diet and lifestyle are recognised as major contributors to non-communicable diseases. The Government has adopted a multisectoral approach to the control and prevention of non-communicable diseases in Namibia. A sugar-sweetened beverage tax is envisaged in policy, but there is no progress towards its enactment. At the highest level of Government, the Ministry of Finance has ruled out immediate action towards sugar-sweetened beverage taxation. There is little publicly available information about the Namibian beverages industry, but it is closely tied to the South African drinking industry and is influenced by policy action in that country.Conclusion: The Government of Namibia has taken positive steps and the policy environment is friendly towards an SSB tax. The proximity of trade and the competitive nature of the Namibian drinks industry with South Africa suggest that a regional perspective to advocacy would be of value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans Justus Amukugo
- Community Health Department, School of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Safura Abdool Karim
- University of the Witwatersrand, School of Public Health, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Anne Marie Thow
- Menzies Centre for Health Policy and Director of Academic Titles, School of Public Health, the University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Agnes Erzse
- University of the Witwatersrand, School of Public Health, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Petronell Kruger
- University of the Witwatersrand, School of Public Health, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Abel Karera
- Allied Health Department, School of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Karen Hofman
- University of the Witwatersrand, School of Public Health, Johannesburg, South Africa
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