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Family of participants during the work session at RADA
Family of participants during the work session at RADA
A projected display of a T-Shirt on the wall with proposed content
A projected display of a T-Shirt on the wall with proposed content
Participants seated in the RADA Events hall with one standing up and giving a self introduction
Participants seated in the RADA Events hall with one standing up and giving a self introduction
Work Session Participants in the Events Hall of RADA all seated
Work Session Participants in the Events Hall of RADA all seated

Taxing Sweetened Beverages & Unhealthy Foods: A Critical Step Toward Disability Inclusion

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The Hidden Link Between Unhealthy Diets and Disability

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes, hypertension, and obesity are rising sharply in Cameroon, with poor diet now ranking as the number one risk factor, even ahead of tobacco. Excessive consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) and processed foods contributes to these conditions, which can lead to long-term disabilities such as:

  • Amputations from diabetes complications
  • Mobility impairments due to obesity-related joint damage
  • Vision loss from hypertension and diabetic retinopathy

A recent survey by the Reconciliation and Development Association (RADA) Cameroon found that 51.1% support taxing unhealthy foods, with 94.1% agreeing revenues should fund healthcare. However, only 37% could accurately identify healthy vs. unhealthy products—highlighting a critical need for public awareness.

CUAPWD’s Role in Making Health Advocacy Inclusive

CUAPWD participated in RADA’s working session to validate communication materials for the “Healthy Food Choices Matter” campaign as part of its commitment to disability-inclusive health policies. Key contributions included:

✅ Ensuring Accessible Messaging

  • Advised on alt text, sign language, and audio adaptations for campaign materials (posters, brochures, radio spots).
  • Pushed for simplified text and visuals to reach persons with intellectual disabilities.

✅ Amplifying Disability Perspectives in Policy

  • Highlighted how NCD-related disabilities strain families and healthcare systems.

✅ Strengthening Collaborative Advocacy

  • Partnered with RADA to develop inclusive media content.
  • Called for future campaigns to engage persons with disabilities in design and testing.

Why This Matters

“Taxation alone isn’t enough; persons with disabilities must be part of the conversation,”. “When health campaigns exclude us, they ignore how preventable disabilities stem from unchecked NCDs. CUAPWD’s collaboration with RADA ensures no one is left behind.”

Take Action

  • Support policies taxing SSBs and unhealthy foods.
  • Demand disability-inclusive health education.
  • Share accessible resources to reach all communities.

Together, we can build a healthier, more inclusive Cameroon.

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