The Bermuda Diabetes Association has backed calls for a sugar tax in the wake of alarming obesity statistics.

A new study revealed 74.6 per cent of people are overweight or obese, prompting Kim Wilson, the Shadow Minister of Health, to call for serious discussion about a sugar tax, which would increase the cost of unhealthy foods and drinks.

Debbie Jones of Bermuda Diabetes Association (BDA) said the organisation would wholeheartedly support the introduction of a sugar tax, noting that similar measures have had positive effects elsewhere.

“In 2013, Mexico introduced a tax on sugary drinks and have seen a 10 per cent decrease in the amount of sugary drinks consumed and a decrease in the obesity rates,” she said.

“The British Medical Association is currently lobbying the British Government to introduce a 20 per cent tax on sugary drinks. Countries all around the world are doing the same.

“Obesity is the underlying cause of so many diseases including type two diabetes. Bermuda will not be able to afford the healthcare costs if this is left unchecked. Revenue from the tax on sugary drinks could be allocated to support water fountains or stations in schools and key locations as well as fund health education programmes.”

She said that in 1995 the BDA was involved in an epidemiology study which found that 40 per cent of the population was overweight or obese.

“To see these figures rise to over 70 per cent is sobering,” she said.

Ms Jones said that the BDA held a summit on diabetes last month, bringing together a cross section of the community to discuss how to address the issue. Some of the suggestions made included legislating a water-only policy in school and requiring more physical activity as part of the school curriculum.

“The Bermuda Diabetes Association is currently writing a white paper on diabetes to send to the Bermuda Government for discussion,” she said. “Bermuda has an opportunity to make changes which will positively affect the health of its citizens but action must be taken now to stop this rise in obesity and prevent type two diabetes. It is time for Bermuda to take a stand and commit to change.

“Our message is one that Bermuda can no longer afford to ignore: we want to encourage Bermudians to drink water, eat less and exercise more. Only then will we begin to stem the tide of this country’s obesity epidemic.”

She also noted that the BDA sponsored the purchase of a pilot gig at the East End Mini Yacht Club with the hope of encouraging Bermudians of all ages to try it, adding: “Rowing isn’t just a great way of getting more exercise. It’s fun, team-oriented and a fantastic way to build positive healthy habits.”

Lifestyle, page 13