The World Health Organization (WHO) has accused alcohol, tobacco, ultra-processed foods (UPFs) and fossil fuels of causing 2.7 million deaths annually in Europe.
In a report named “Commercial determinants of noncommunicable diseases in the WHO European Region,” the global health body demanded stringent regulation to control industry power and enhance public health. These industries are responsible for a minimum of 7,000 deaths daily in Europe, according to Hans Kluge, Director of WHO’s Europe region.
Interference in Public Health Policies for Profits
The WHO estimated that smoking causes 1.15 million deaths per year in Europe, 426,857 deaths result from alcohol, diets high in processed meats cause 117,290 deaths, and diets high in salt contribute to 252,187 deaths. This data doesn’t include deaths due to obesity, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, or high cholesterol levels—all related to unhealthy diets.
The organization accused these four industries of sabotaging public policies that might dent their profits. Targeted marketing strategies, disinformation, social media promotions, and funding research promoting their objectives were some of the tactics mentioned. These strategies, the WHO said, are compromising public health gains of the past century and thwarting countries from reaching their health targets, especially concerning non-communicable diseases like cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes.
Urging for Robust Health Regulations
Highlighting that “the primary concern of all major corporations is profit,” the WHO also pointed out that a large market share often translates into political power. About 60% of adults and one-third of children in Europe are overweight or obese, the WHO noted.
Data from 2017 indicates that one in five deaths due to cardiovascular disease and cancer in Europe was the result of unhealthy eating habits. The WHO encouraged nations to counteract this by implementing stricter regulations on the marketing of unhealthy products, monopolistic practices, and lobbying. “People must take precedence before profit, always,” Kluge asserted.
Original Story at www.dw.com