The report backs radical action on the marketing, labelling, taxation and reformulation of products containing added sugar, measures which have long been advocated by the BDA and the dental community.
While the Health Committee’s report outlines measures to tackle childhood obesity, the BDA has welcomed recognition of the huge burden child tooth decay places on the NHS. Dental caries remain the number one cause of hospital admissions among children in the UK.
Mick Armstrong, chair of the British Dental Association said:
“This report offers a welcome reminder on why ‘prevention’ should be at the heart of health policy, not just government soundbites. Child obesity and child tooth decay are costing the NHS, fuelled by a common agent that’s effectively nutrient free. Now politicians might want to describe action on added sugar as ‘brave and bold’, but for health professionals it is necessary and long overdue.
“With a little joined-up thinking we can start weaning Britain off its sugar addiction, and no options from taxes to ad bans should be left off the table. Any half measures on sugar controls will come at a real cost, both to the public purse and to the health of our children.”