Summary
A study by ACT Promoção da Saúde shows that an increase in the consumption of ultra-processed foods generates a cost of R$10.4 billion for the Brazilian economy, with 57 thousand related deaths every year.
A recent study by ACT Promoção da Saúde revealed that the increase in consumption of ultra-processed products is generating a billion-dollar cost for the Brazilian economy, estimated at R$10.4 billion per year. The report, published on November 21, 2024, highlights that the majority of this amount, approximately R$9.2 billion, is attributed to economic losses resulting from the premature death of people of working age, which has a direct impact on the Work.
The study also reinforces previous data which indicates approximately 57 thousand deaths each year in Brazil linked to diseases linked to the consumption of these products, equal to approximately 10.5% of the total deaths in the country.
The researchers focused on three major diseases associated with the consumption of ultra-processed foods: obesity, type 2 diabetes and hypertension. Although there are more than 30 conditions cataloged as resulting from the consumption of these foods, the study focused only on those mentioned.
The research included data referring to adults over the age of 20 and only considered the expenses of the Unified Health System (SUS) and the popular pharmacy network. This means that the estimates could be even more conservative, as they do not take into account spending on supplementary health treatments or costs associated with informal workers.
In addition to the direct costs of treatments and medications, which amount to R$933.5 million per year, the study also identified significant indirect costs related to premature mortality.
Research indicates that men are most affected by these deaths, which represent R$6.6 billion in economic losses, while women correspond to R$2.6 billion.
ACT Promoção da Saúde and other experts highlight the urgency of implementing public policies that aim to reduce the consumption of ultra-processed foods in Brazil. Suggestions include measures such as adequate taxation on these products, clearer nutrition labeling and regulation of targeted marketing of these foods.
The study highlights that a poor diet not only generates direct costs for the healthcare system, but also compromises the population’s quality of life and increases the risk of chronic and serious diseases.
Watch the video with commentary by André Forastieri.
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Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
