The World Health Organization (WHO) unveiled a new initiative yesterday (July 2), urging countries to significantly raise taxes on tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks to “combat the global epidemic of noncommunicable diseases.” Dubbed “3 by 35,” the campaign calls for real price increases of at least 50% on those products by 2035.
According to WHO, a one-time 50% price hike on tobacco, alcohol, and sugary beverages could prevent 50 million premature deaths due to heart disease, cancer, and diabetes over the next 50 years.
Backed by a coalition of global partners, WHO will provide technical support and policy advice to help countries implement these reforms. The campaign aligns with growing interest among governments to shift toward self-financed, sustainable health systems.
