Cairo, 5 April 2016 – In the Eastern Mediterranean Region, more than 65% of adults and 20% of adolescents are currently overweight or obese. Evidence shows that the excessive consumption of sugar is not only a major contributor to the epidemic of obesity but is also leading to increased prevalence of diabetes and tooth decay in children and adults. In order to lower sugar intake and reduce the prevalence of type 2 diabetes and obesity in the Region, the WHO Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, has released a policy statement, including recommended actions, to address the problem. The policy statement and recommended actions are part of WHO’s effort to reach the global target of halting the rise in diabetes and obesity and reduce the burden of premature deaths due to noncommunicable diseases by 25% by 2025. WHO is asking governments to consider introducing a progressive and sustainable reduction in national sugar intake over the coming 3 to 4 years. Substantial falls in sugar intake are now considered necessary to halt the rise in diabetes and obesity. “In some countries, people are consuming more than 85 grams of sugar per person a day,” said Dr Ala Alwan, WHO Regional Director. WHO recommends that children and adults should consume less than 10%, or preferably 5% (roughly 25 grams per person a day) of free sugars in their diet.  In high- and middle-income countries, sugar consumption ranges from 9% to 15%. Even in low-income countries it can be as high as Read more...