Big alcohol, tobacco and food firms obstruct vital health reforms, says WHO
The World Health Organization stated on Thursday that pressure from tobacco, alcohol, and ultra-processed food companies is hindering governments from implementing life-saving health policies. Next Thursday, during its annual gathering in New York, the United Nations will dedicate a day to addressing non-communicable diseases, such as cancer and heart disease. The WHO, the health agency of the UN, states that these products play a role in contributing to such conditions.
In a separate report, the WHO found that “$3 per person invested by governments on non-communicable diseases could save more than 12 million lives and generate $1 trillion in savings by 2030.” It is often stated that governments encounter significant lobbying efforts. However, the statement from the WHO indicated that governments frequently encounter significant lobbying efforts from industries aiming to obstruct, dilute, or postpone policies, which include health taxes and marketing restrictions aimed at children. “Often, governments face fierce opposition from industries that profit from unhealthy products,” stated WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. Child stunting is a significant concern, particularly when considering the associated risks of smoking. The World Health Organization has reported that children with parents who smoke are at a greater risk of experiencing stunting. Insulin plays a crucial role in the management of diabetes, particularly Type 2 diabetes. The pharmaceutical sector is instrumental in developing and providing the necessary healthcare solutions for those affected by this condition. Diabetes drugs aimed at combating obesity have been awarded the essential medicine designation by the World Health Organization.
The World Health Organization and the Central Zoo Authority are conducting a review of the measures implemented to combat the spread of bird flu at the Delhi zoo. During the summer, heat waves can bring intense and prolonged periods of hot weather. These heat waves often lead to elevated temperatures that can significantly impact daily life and health. The WHO and WMO have issued a warning that extreme heat poses a significant threat to workers’ health and global productivity. The World Health Organization has revised its recommendations regarding the use of antibiotics for patients suffering from Covid-19. Dr. Etienne Krug, who serves as the Director of WHO’s department of health determinants, promotion and prevention, stated: “It is unacceptable that commercial interests are profiting from increasing deaths and disease.” Representatives from the food, tobacco, and alcohol industries refuted that characterization, stating to Reuters that they appreciated the chance to engage in the conversation about harm reduction, emphasizing the significance of dialogue.
During the UN meeting, governments are poised to reach an agreement on new targets concerning non-communicable diseases, along with a roadmap outlining the path to achieve these goals. However, health organizations have raised concerns that the draft of the political declaration has been significantly diluted. Tobacco companies such as Japan Tobacco International, along with industry associations representing the food and beer sectors. The UN welcomes contributions from the industry, which can lead to the formulation of more effective policies. “We welcomed the opportunity to join member states and advocates in sharing our perspective on how to reduce the harmful use of alcohol,” stated Justin Kissinger.
The International Food and Beverage Alliance asserted that it is misleading to draw parallels between food and substances such as tobacco and alcohol. “We strongly disagree with the characterization of our industry as obstructing progress,” added Rocco Renaldi. Tobacco companies emphasized that the discussion was important. “The WHO should not fear dialogue; it should welcome it,” a spokesperson for Philip Morris International stated.
