Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are the world’s leading cause of death: they were responsible for an estimated 41 million (73%) of the 56 million deaths in 2017. Many of those deaths were premature (i.e. under the age of 70 years) and occurred in low- and middle-income countries. Modifiable risk factors such as unhealthy diet and physical inactivity are some of the most common causes of NCDs, including obesity.

Overweight and obese children are at higher risk of developing serious health problems including type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma and other respiratory problems, sleep disorders and liver disease. They may also suffer from psychological effects, such as low self-esteem, depression and social isolation. Childhood obesity also increases the risk of obesity, NCDs, premature death and disability in adulthood.

Dental caries causes pain, anxiety, functional limitation (including poor school attendance and performance in children) and social handicap through tooth loss. The negative health effects of dental caries are cumulative, tracking from childhood to adulthood and most dental caries is now occurring in adults.

Free sugars* contribute to the overall energy density of diets and higher intakes of free sugars threaten the nutrient quality of the diet by providing significant energy without specific nutrients, leading to unhealthy weight gain and increased risk of obesity and various NCDs, particularly dental caries which is the most prevalent NCD globally.

* Free sugars include monosaccharides and disaccharides added to foods and beverages by the manufacturer, cook or consumer, and sugars naturally present in honey, syrups, fruit juices and fruit juice concentrates.