Effects of a Sugar-Sweetened Beverages Tax on Caries in Italy: A Modelling Study.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction: Despite efforts to reduce sugar consumption, Italy continues to experience high levels of caries, particularly among 12-year-old children. The introduction of a sugar tax is one strategy that gained traction as a mean of curbing excessive sugar intake. This study aimed to assess the potential impact of a sugar tax on reducing caries prevalence through the analysis of two scenarios: a hypothetical implementation of the tax in 2008 (Scen₁), compared against actual 2017 data, and a projection of the effects of the planned 2025 tax extending to 2034 (Scen₂).

Methods

The evaluation utilizes a Markov model to evaluate the health and economic outcomes of a 20% ad valorem tax on sugar-sweetened beverages. Outcomes included the caries experience, as DMF

SUBMITTER: Lamloum D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12060820 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature