2 days Ago By Tess McCracken
A GP turned politician is calling on the government to implement a tax on sugary drinks amid a growing diabetes epidemic, which she has labelled a “tragedy in motion”. Independent MP for Makellar Dr Sophie Scamps has urged the Albanese Government to immediately introduce a levy on sugar-sweetened drinks and restrict the marketing and advertising of unhealthy food to children. Dr Scamps plea comes as about 1.
5 million Australians are known to be living with a form of diabetes. Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion. Her calls also follow the tabling of a landmark report on the state of diabetes within Australia, which is aimed to reduce the “burden” chronic disease places on Australia’s health care system.
House Standing Committee on Health, Aged Care and Sport chair Dr Mike Freelander said the number of Australians living with diabetes is expected to rise. “By placing particular emphasis on prevention, the Committee is also seeking to raise awareness of major risk factors associated with the disease, such as obesity,” he said. The Committee made 23 recommendations targeted at strengthening the governments response to diabetes and obesity.
Dr Scamps said the government must take the “two most effective steps” to combat the diabetes epidemic, which include placing taxes on sugary drinks and the restriction of marketing and advertising of unhealthy food to kids on online and gaming platforms. Dr Scamps said initiati.
