1
|
Loffreda G, Arakelyan S, Bou-Orm I, Holmer H, Allen LN, Witter S, Ager A, Diaconu K. Barriers and Opportunities for WHO "Best Buys" Non-communicable Disease Policy Adoption and Implementation From a Political Economy Perspective: A Complexity Systematic Review. Int J Health Policy Manag 2024; 13:7989. [PMID: 38618832 PMCID: PMC11016278 DOI: 10.34172/ijhpm.2023.7989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Improving the adoption and implementation of policies to curb non-communicable diseases (NCDs) is a major challenge for better global health. The adoption and implementation of such policies remain deficient in various contexts, with limited insights into the facilitating and inhibiting factors. These policies have traditionally been treated as technical solutions, neglecting the critical influence of political economy dynamics. Moreover, the complex nature of these interventions is often not adequately incorporated into evidence for policy-makers. This study aims to systematically review and evaluate the factors affecting NCD policy adoption and implementation. METHODS We conducted a complex systematic review of articles discussing the adoption and implementation of World Health Organization's (WHO's) "best buys" NCD policies. We identified political economy factors and constructed a causal loop diagram (CLD) program theory to elucidate the interplay between factors influencing NCD policy adoption and implementation. A total of 157 papers met the inclusion criteria. RESULTS Our CLD highlights a central feedback loop encompassing three vital variables: (1) the ability to define, (re)shape, and pass appropriate policy into law; (2) the ability to implement the policy (linked to the enforceability of the policy and to addressing NCD local burden); and (3) ability to monitor progress, evaluate and correct the course. Insufficient context-specific data impedes the formulation and enactment of suitable policies, particularly in areas facing multiple disease burdens. Multisectoral collaboration plays a pivotal role in both policy adoption and implementation. Effective monitoring and accountability systems significantly impact policy implementation. The commercial determinants of health (CDoH) serve as a major barrier to defining, adopting, and implementing tobacco, alcohol, and diet-related policies. CONCLUSION To advance global efforts, we recommend focusing on the development of robust accountability, monitoring, and evaluation systems, ensuring transparency in private sector engagement, supporting context-specific data collection, and effectively managing the CDoH. A system thinking approach can enhance the implementation of complex public health interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Loffreda
- NIHR Research Unit of Health in Fragility, Institute for Global Health and Development, Queen Margaret University Edinburgh, Musselburgh, UK
| | - Stella Arakelyan
- NIHR Research Unit of Health in Fragility, Institute for Global Health and Development, Queen Margaret University Edinburgh, Musselburgh, UK
- Advanced Care Research Centre, Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Musselburgh, UK
| | - Ibrahim Bou-Orm
- NIHR Research Unit of Health in Fragility, Institute for Global Health and Development, Queen Margaret University Edinburgh, Musselburgh, UK
| | - Hampus Holmer
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Luke N. Allen
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Sophie Witter
- NIHR Research Unit of Health in Fragility, Institute for Global Health and Development, Queen Margaret University Edinburgh, Musselburgh, UK
| | - Alastair Ager
- NIHR Research Unit of Health in Fragility, Institute for Global Health and Development, Queen Margaret University Edinburgh, Musselburgh, UK
| | - Karin Diaconu
- NIHR Research Unit of Health in Fragility, Institute for Global Health and Development, Queen Margaret University Edinburgh, Musselburgh, UK
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Erku D, Yigzaw N, Tegegn HG, Gartner CE, Scuffham PA, Garedew YT, Shambel E. Framing, moral foundations and health taxes: interpretive analysis of Ethiopia's tobacco excise tax policy passage. BMJ Glob Health 2023; 8:e012058. [PMID: 37813449 PMCID: PMC10565163 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2023-012058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2019-2020, the Ethiopian government ratified a suite of legislative measures that includes levying a tax on tobacco products. This study aims to examine stakeholders' involvement, position, power and perception regarding the Ethiopian Food and Drug Authority (EFDA) bill (Proclamation No.1112/2019). This includes their meaning-making and interaction with each other during the bill's formulation, adoption and implementation stages. METHODS We employed a mixed-methods design drawing on three sources of data: (1) policy documents and media articles from government and/or civil society groups (n=27), (2) audio and video transcripts of parliamentary debates and (3) qualitative stakeholder interviews. RESULTS Policy actors in both the public health camp and tobacco industry employed several framing moves, engaged in distinctive patterns of moral rhetoric, and strategically invoked moral languages to galvanise support for their policy objectives. Central to this framing debate are issues of public health and the danger of tobacco, and the protection of 'the economy and personal freedom'. The public health camp's arguments and persuasiveness-which led to the passage of the EFDA bill-centred around discrediting tobacco industry's cost-benefit assessments through frame disconnection, or by polarising their own position that the financial, psychological and lost productivity costs incurred by tobacco use outweighs any tax revenue. CONCLUSIONS A successful cultivation of an epistemic community and engagement of policy entrepreneurs-both from government agencies and civil society organisations-was critical in creating a united front and a compelling affirmative policy narrative, thereby influence excise tax policy outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Erku
- Centre for Applied Health Economics, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, Australia
- Menzies Health Research Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Nigusse Yigzaw
- Institute of Public Health, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Henok Getachew Tegegn
- Centre for Applied Health Economics, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, Australia
- School of Rural Medicine, University of New England, Armidale, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Coral E Gartner
- School of Public Health, University of Queensland, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Paul A Scuffham
- Centre for Applied Health Economics, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, Australia
- Menzies Health Research Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Yordanos Tegene Garedew
- Health Policy and Systems Research, EPIC Research and Training Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Ehetemariam Shambel
- Pharmaceutical and Medical Equipment Directorate, Federal Ministry of Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zuleta M, Perez-Leon S, Mialon M, Delgado-Zegarra J. Political and socioeconomic factors that shaped health taxes implementation in Peru. BMJ Glob Health 2023; 8:e012024. [PMID: 37813443 PMCID: PMC10565308 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2023-012024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2016 and 2018, the Peruvian Ministry of Economy and Finance (MoEF) significantly reformulated taxes on tobacco products, alcohol and sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs). During these processes, different actors advanced arguments supporting or opposing the taxes. This study examines Peru's political and socioeconomic factors, the role of other actors and framing strategies, shaping health taxes introduction. METHODS We conducted qualitative analysis by collecting information from three sources, such as: (1) media material (n=343 documents), (2) government documents (n=34) and (3) semistructured interviews (n=11). That data allowed us to identify and characterise the actors involved in implementing health taxes in Peru. We combined the data from these sources, synthesised our findings and conducted a stakeholder analysis. RESULTS Key actors supporting taxes were the MoEF and civil society organisations, while trade associations and the alcohol, SSBs and tobacco industries opposed them using economic, trade-related arguments and criticised the policy process. The supporting group used arguments related to the economy and health to legitimate its narrative. The framing strategies employed by these stakeholders shaped and determined the outcome of the policy process. CONCLUSION Peruvian stakeholders against health taxes demonstrated a strong capacity to convey their messages to the media and high-level policy-makers. Despite these efforts, attempts to interfere with health taxes were unsuccessful in 2016 and 2018 and failed to overcome state institutions, particularly the MoEF. Strong institutions and individual decision-makers in Peru also contributed to the successful implementation of health taxes in Peru in 2016 and 2018.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mario Zuleta
- Centre for Food Policy, City University, London, UK
| | - Silvana Perez-Leon
- CRONICAS Center of Excellence in Chronic Disease, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - Melissa Mialon
- Trinity Business School, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Koon AD, Marten R. Framing health taxes: a scoping review. BMJ Glob Health 2023; 8:e012055. [PMID: 37813439 PMCID: PMC10565303 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2023-012055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Health taxes are increasingly positioned as effective policy instruments for curbing non-communicable disease, improving health and raising government revenues. Their allure has caused many health advocates to look beyond tobacco and alcohol to other harmful products such as sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs), salty foods, fatty foods and fossil fuels. These efforts, however, directly conflict with commercial actors' interests. Both pro-tax health advocates and anti-tax industry representatives seek to frame health tax policy in favourable ways. Yet, little is known about which types of frames resonate in which settings, or how they deploy morals and values in their attempts to persuade. To fill this gap, we conducted a scoping review on framing health taxes using six databases in 2022. A total of 40 peer-reviewed empirical research articles, from 2006 to 2022, were identified from 20 different countries. Most research was conducted in high-income countries, published in the last 4 years and increasingly focused on excise taxes for SSBs. Studies captured multiple actors constructing context-specific frames, often tied to broader economic, health and administrative considerations. Actors also engaged in a range of political activities in addition to framing. We found some evidence that anti-tax framing strategies potentially incorporated a broader array of morals and social values. More in-country comparative research, particularly from low/middle-income countries, is needed to understand the politics of framing health taxes. We argue that these insights can improve efforts to advance health taxes by constraining corporate power, improving population level health and promoting greater social harmony.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adam D Koon
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Robert Marten
- Secretariat, WHO Alliance for Health Policy and Systems Research, Geneva, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Alvarado M, Marten R, Garcia L, Kwamie A, White M, Adams J. Using systems thinking to generate novel research questions for the evaluation of sugar-sweetened beverage taxation policies. BMJ Glob Health 2023; 8:e012060. [PMID: 37813450 PMCID: PMC10565209 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2023-012060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Alvarado
- MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- George Alleyne Chronic Disease Research Centre, The University of the West Indies, Bridgetown, Barbados
| | - Robert Marten
- Alliance For Health Policy and System Research, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Leandro Garcia
- Centre for Public Health, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Aku Kwamie
- Alliance For Health Policy and System Research, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Martin White
- MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jean Adams
- MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Acharya Y, Karmacharya V, Paudel U, Joshi S, Ghimire R, Adhikari SR. Perceptions of key stakeholders on taxes on tobacco and alcohol products in Nepal. BMJ Glob Health 2023; 8:e012040. [PMID: 37813451 PMCID: PMC10565236 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2023-012040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are on the rise in Nepal. Consumption of alcohol and tobacco products remains high. Taxes on these products are significantly below the rate recommended by the WHO. In an effort to understand the reasons behind the slow progress towards the adoption of higher health taxes to curb NCDs, we documented the perceptions of key stakeholders on health taxes, including perceived barriers and facilitators to adopting higher health taxes. METHODS We conducted 45 in-depth interviews with individuals comprising government officials; producers, wholesale distributors and sellers of alcohol and tobacco products; and consumers and representatives from civil society organisations. We conducted a thematic analysis of the resulting data. RESULTS Respondents from alcohol and tobacco industries are not supportive of higher health taxes. They argued that higher taxes can increase illicit trade and worsen inequality. Strikingly, several government officials shared the industries' concerns, arguing that health taxes have limited potential to reduce consumption of alcohol and tobacco products to help curb NCDs. In terms of barriers to adoption of higher health taxes, several local government representatives opined that close ties between industries and politicians at the federal level is a major hindrance. CONCLUSIONS In order to adopt higher health taxes, the government will need to counter the false narrative pushed by alcohol and tobacco industries on the negative economic effects of such taxes. Health taxes earmarked for NCDs need to reflect the amount of revenue raised, reoriented towards prevention efforts and communicated clearly to the public.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yubraj Acharya
- Department of Health Policy and Administration, Pennsylvania State University, State College, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | | | - Supriya Joshi
- Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Shiva Raj Adhikari
- Central Department of Economics, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal
- Nepal Health Economics Association, Kathmandu, Nepal
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Koen N, Ebrahim Z, Louisa Marais M, Nel D, Smit Y. Taxation of sugar-sweetened beverages in South Africa: Perspectives of consumers in Cape Town. J Public Health Res 2022; 11:22799036221129369. [PMID: 36310822 PMCID: PMC9597050 DOI: 10.1177/22799036221129369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally, fiscal measures are deemed effective in combating the obesity epidemic at population level. A health promotional levy (HPL) on sugar sweetened beverages (SSBs) was implemented in April 2018 in South Africa to reduce sugar consumption. DESIGN AND METHODS This cross-sectional, descriptive study investigated consumers' understanding and opinion of the HPL, and impact on consumption of SSBs. Data was collected outside 15 grocery stores, within four health sub-districts of the City of Cape Town. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was completed with literate, adult consumers (N = 696). RESULTS Participants (46.0%) were aware of the HPL but regarded it insufficient to change purchasing behaviour (55.4%). The lower income group (56.4%) was most affected by the increased price of SSBs. Those who agreed (46.8%) that the levy would help to reduce the prevalence of obesity was significantly more likely to notice a price increase in SSBs (54.5%) (p < 0.01) and had a higher education level (p < 0.01). Overall, self-reported consumption of SSBs decreased by 7.7% since the HPL was enacted. Participants who were aware of the detrimental effect of consuming large amounts of sugar, were more likely to change their behaviour (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Participants were receptive for legislative measures to combat the prevalence of obesity but lacked clarity of the goal and implementation of the HPL. A multipronged approach is crucial to lower sugar intake sustainably and an environment which offers healthy alternatives to SSBs. A higher HPL combined with transparency of how revenue is utilised could enhance the impact of the sugar tax strategy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nelene Koen
- Division of Human Nutrition, Department
of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University,
Cape Town, South Africa,Nelene Koen, Division of Human Nutrition,
Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences,
Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Cape Town 8000, South Africa.
| | - Zarina Ebrahim
- Division of Human Nutrition, Department
of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University,
Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Maritha Louisa Marais
- Division of Human Nutrition, Department
of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University,
Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Daan Nel
- Centre for Statistical Consultation,
Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Yolande Smit
- Division of Human Nutrition, Department
of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University,
Cape Town, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Marten R, Paul J, Tan Torres Edejer T, Campbell-Lendrum D. Health taxes: a call for papers. BMJ Glob Health 2022; 7:bmjgh-2022-010709. [PMID: 36192050 PMCID: PMC9557789 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2022-010709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Robert Marten
- Alliance for Health Policy and Systems Research, WHO Headquarters, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Jeremias Paul
- Department of Health Promotion, WHO Headquarters, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Tessa Tan Torres Edejer
- Department of Health Systems Governance and Financing (HGF), WHO Headquarters, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Siu E, Thow AM. Linking health and finance ministries to improve taxes on unhealthy products. Bull World Health Organ 2022; 100:570-577. [PMID: 36062244 PMCID: PMC9421554 DOI: 10.2471/blt.22.288104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 06/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The World Health Organization recommends economic measures such as taxes on tobacco, alcohol and unhealthy foods and beverages as part of a comprehensive strategy for prevention of noncommunicable diseases. However, progress in adopting these so-called health taxes has been hampered, in part, by different approaches and perceptions of key issues in different sectors of government. Health promotion is the responsibility of health policy-makers, while taxation is the mandate of finance ministries. Thus, strengthening cooperation between health and finance policy-makers is central to the successful adoption and implementation of effective health taxes. In this paper we identify the shared concerns of finance and health policy-makers about health taxes with the aim of enabling more effective cross-sector cooperation towards both additional financing for health systems and changes in unhealthy behaviours. For example, new approaches to supporting health taxation include the growing priority for health-system financing due to the growing burden of noncommunicable diseases, and the need to address the health and economic damage due to the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. As a result, high-level efforts to achieve progress on health taxes are gaining momentum and represent important progress towards using the combined expertise of health and finance policy-makers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erika Siu
- Institute for Health Research and Policy, University of Illinois Chicago, 1747 West Roosevelt Road, Chicago, Illinois, 60608, United States of America
| | - Anne Marie Thow
- Menzies Centre for Health Policy and Economics, School of Public Health, Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Sparkes SP, Campos Rivera PA, Jang H, Marten R, Rajan D, Robb A, Shroff ZC. Normalizing the political economy of improving health. Bull World Health Organ 2022; 100:276-280. [PMID: 35386555 PMCID: PMC8958830 DOI: 10.2471/blt.21.286629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Problem Political economy factors are important in determining the adoption and implementation of health policies. Yet these factors are often overlooked in the development of policies that have the potential to influence health. Approach Political economy analysis provides a way to take into consideration political and social realities, whether at the community, subnational, national, regional or global levels. We aim to demonstrate the value of political economy analysis and to promote its wider use in technical programmes of work. Local setting We provide examples from across a range of World Health Organization areas of work, including participatory governance, health financing, health taxes, malaria prevention and control, capacity-building and direct country support. Relevant changes Existing examples of how political economy analysis can be incorporated into technical support demonstrate the variability of this analytical approach, as well as its potential to support policy progress. Applying political economy analysis within the specified programmes of work has enabled more contextually relevant technical support to enhance the likelihood of advancing countries’ health-related objectives. Lessons learnt Embedding political economy into technical work has many benefits, including: enhancing voice and participation in health policies; supporting the adoption and implementation feasibility of technically sound policies; and building capacity to incorporate and understand political factors that influence health-related priorities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susan P Sparkes
- Health Systems Governance and Financing, World Health Organization, Avenue Appia 20, 1211 Geneva 27, Switzerland
| | | | - Hyobum Jang
- Country Strategy and Support, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Robert Marten
- Alliance for Health Policy and Systems Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Dheepa Rajan
- Health Systems Governance and Financing, World Health Organization, Avenue Appia 20, 1211 Geneva 27, Switzerland
| | - Alastair Robb
- Global Malaria Programme, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Zubin Cyrus Shroff
- Alliance for Health Policy and Systems Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Mounsey S, Vaka AK, Cama T, Waqa G, McKenzie B, Thow AM. Strengthening Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Taxation for Non-Communicable Disease Prevention: A Comparative Political Economy Analysis Case Study of Fiji and Tonga. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14061212. [PMID: 35334867 PMCID: PMC8949109 DOI: 10.3390/nu14061212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Diet-related fiscal policy is an effective NCD prevention strategy. However, current sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) taxes in Fiji and Tonga have not had the desired effect; SSB consumption in Fiji, for example, contributes to mortality more than double the global rates and is highest in the WHO Western Pacific Region. We therefore aimed to better understand the perceived underlying political economy drivers that have and continue to affect change in each country. Our study design utilised a comparative case study that triangulated documentary policy and stakeholder analysis with semi-structured stakeholder interviews in both countries and an in-depth corporate political activity analysis in Fiji. We drew on theoretical frameworks relevant to political economy to collect and analyse policy and stakeholder data, and utilised established corporate political activity frameworks to analyse industry activity. Common findings to both Fiji and Tonga suggested that the SSB tax impact could be increased through multisectoral engagement, embracing a whole-of-society approach, strengthened institutional structures and leveraging off competing priorities across sectors towards more common goals. These findings provide opportunities and lessons for Fiji and Tonga as well as other similar settings seeking to strengthen or upscale the impact of diet-related fiscal policy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Mounsey
- Menzies Centre for Health Policy and Economics, School of Public Health, Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +44-741-598-1365
| | - Aspasia Katrina Vaka
- Queen Salote Institute of Nursing and Allied Health, Ministry of Health, Vaiola Hospital, Nuku’alofa, Tonga; (A.K.V.); (T.C.)
| | - Tilema Cama
- Queen Salote Institute of Nursing and Allied Health, Ministry of Health, Vaiola Hospital, Nuku’alofa, Tonga; (A.K.V.); (T.C.)
| | - Gade Waqa
- Pacific Research Centre for the Prevention of Obesity and Non-Communicable Diseases (C-POND), Fiji National University, Tamavua Campus, Suva, Fiji;
| | - Briar McKenzie
- The George Institute for Global Health, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2042, Australia;
| | - Anne Marie Thow
- Menzies Centre for Health Policy and Economics, School of Public Health, Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia;
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Hoe C, Weiger C, Minosa MKR, Alonso F, Koon AD, Cohen JE. Strategies to expand corporate autonomy by the tobacco, alcohol and sugar-sweetened beverage industry: a scoping review of reviews. Global Health 2022; 18:17. [PMID: 35164801 PMCID: PMC8845406 DOI: 10.1186/s12992-022-00811-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Noncommunicable diseases contribute to over 70% of global deaths each year. Efforts to address this epidemic are complicated by the presence of powerful corporate actors. Despite this, few attempts have been made to synthesize existing evidence of the strategies used to advance corporate interests across industries. Given this, our study seeks to answer the questions: 1) Is there an emergent taxonomy of strategies used by the tobacco, alcohol and sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) industries to expand corporate autonomy? 2) How are these strategies similar and how are they different? METHODS Under the guidance of a framework developed by Arksey and O'Malley, a scoping review was carried out whereby six databases were searched in June 2021 to identify relevant peer-reviewed literature. To be included in this review, studies had to explicitly discuss the strategies used by the tobacco, alcohol, and/or sugar-sweetened beverage multinational corporations and be considered review articles aimed to synthesize existing evidence from at least one of the three industries. Eight hundred and fifty-eight articles were selected for full review and 59 articles were retained for extraction, analysis, and categorization. RESULTS Results identified six key strategies the industries used: 1) influencing government policy making and implementation, 2) challenging unfavorable science, 3) creating a positive image, 4) manipulating markets, 5) mounting legal challenges, and 6) anticipating future scenarios. Despite these similarities, there are few but important differences. Under the strategy of influencing government policy making and implementation, for example, literature showed that the alcohol and SSB industries have been "privileged with high levels of participation" within international public health organizations. CONCLUSIONS Understanding how industries resist efforts to control them is important for public health advocates working to reduce consumption of and death and diseases resulting from harmful commodities. Moreover, there is a greater need for the public health community to generate consensus about how to ethically engage or not engage with industries that produce unhealthy commodities. More studies are also needed to build the evidence base of industry tactics to resist regulation, particularly in the case of SSB, and in low-and middle-income countries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Connie Hoe
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 130.3, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Caitlin Weiger
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Marela Kay R Minosa
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Fernanda Alonso
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Adam D Koon
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Joanna E Cohen
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Hagenaars LL, Jeurissen PPT, Klazinga NS, Listl S, Jevdjevic M. Effectiveness and Policy Determinants of Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Taxes. J Dent Res 2021; 100:1444-1451. [PMID: 34034538 DOI: 10.1177/00220345211014463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Sugar consumption is on the rise globally with detrimental (oral) health effects. There is ample evidence that sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) taxes can efficiently reduce sugar consumption. However, evidence alone is seldom enough to implement a policy. In this article, we present a narrative synthesis of evidence, based on real-world SSB tax evaluations, and we combine this with lessons from policy development case studies. This article is structured according to the Health Policy Analysis Triangle, which identifies a policy's content and process and important contextual factors. SSB tax policy content needs to be coupled to existing problems and public sentiment, which depend on more aspects than aspects related to (oral) health alone. Whether or not to include artificially sweetened beverages, therefore, is not solely a matter of showing the evidence of their oral health impact but also dependent on the stated aim of a tax and public sentiment toward tax policies in general. SSB taxes also need to be in line with existing tax and decision-making rules. Earmarking revenue for specific (health promotion) purposes may therefore be less straightforward as it might appear. The policy process of creating context-sensitive SSB tax policy content is not easy either. Advocacy coalitions need to be formed early in the process, and stamina, expertise, and flexibility are required to get a SSB tax adopted in a specific community. This requires a meticulously considered SSB tax structure implementation process. Oral health professionals who want to lead the way in advocating for SSB taxes should realize that evidence-based arguments on potential effectiveness alone will not be enough to realize change. The oral health community can learn important lessons from other "doctor-activists" such as pulmonologists, who have successfully advocated for higher tobacco taxes by being visible in the public debate with clear messaging and robust policy proposals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L L Hagenaars
- Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, IQ Healthcare, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - P P T Jeurissen
- Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, IQ Healthcare, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - N S Klazinga
- Department of Social Medicine, Amsterdam UMC-University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - S Listl
- Department of Dentistry-Quality and Safety of Oral Healthcare, Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.,Department of Conservative Dentistry, Translational Health Economics Group, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - M Jevdjevic
- Department of Dentistry-Quality and Safety of Oral Healthcare, Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|