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Current trends of sugar consumption in developing societies
A I Ismail1, J M Tanzer, J L Dingle
1Faculty of Dentistry, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. ismailai@umich.edu
Community Dentistry and Oral Epidemiology
|January 16, 1998
Summary
Rising sugar consumption in developing nations may increase dental caries. A collaborative dental health fund, supported by manufacturers, is proposed instead of impractical taxes to fund prevention programs.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Dental Epidemiology
- Nutrition Science
Background:
- Global sugar consumption, particularly sucrose, is increasing in many developing countries.
- This rise is linked to the growing popularity of sugar-sweetened beverages, desserts, and snacks.
- Evidence suggests increasing sugar use in Asia, South/Central America, and the Middle East.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current data on sugar consumption trends in developing countries.
- To assess the potential impact of these trends on dental caries prevalence.
- To propose practical strategies for oral health promotion and caries prevention.
Main Methods:
- A literature search of business, dental, and nutritional databases was conducted.
- Data on sugar consumption patterns in various global regions were analyzed.
- The feasibility of different intervention strategies was evaluated.
Main Results:
- Sugar consumption is rising in key developing regions, notably Asia and Latin America.
- Carbonated beverage consumption is a significant concern in Southeast Asia and China.
- Taxation and consumption reduction strategies are deemed impractical for most developing countries.
Conclusions:
- Increased sugar intake poses a risk for higher dental caries rates in developing nations.
- Collaborative efforts between public health bodies and the food/beverage industry are recommended.
- A 'milli-cent' donation model from manufacturers can fund essential dental health programs and caries prevention initiatives.