Influence of sociodemographic and lifestyle factors on taxed sugar-sweetened beverage consumption in Thailand

Abstract

Globally, the factors influencing sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption have been extensively studied in many countries. However, there is no research investigating these factors at the population level. This study analyzed the major factors influencing taxed SSB consumption in Thailand. The Thai SSB tax applies to energy drinks (ED), carbonated drinks (CD) and non-100% fruit juice drinks (FD), and came into effect in 2017. This study used data from the second wave of the 'Longitudinal Monitoring Survey of Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Consumption' survey conducted in Thailand in 2019. A total of 4,736 Thai residents aged 15 years or older from four geographic regions and Bangkok in Thailand participated in the study. Data on self-reported frequency and quantity of consumption of taxed SSB were collected using semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. The data also include sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle behaviors (physical activity, smoking, and alcohol drinking), current health condition, and knowledge of sugar recommendations. Binary and multinomial logistic regression and generalized linear model analyses were conducted. CD was the most consumed taxed SSB (34.2%) among the sample, followed by FD and ED, respectively. The findings suggest that certain sociodemographic characteristics (male, residing in Bangkok or Central region, lower educational attainment), physical inactivity, and smoking were associated with a higher level of SSB consumption. Consumption was lower for every year increase in age. We also observed a statistically-significant association between lack of knowledge of recommended limit on sugar intake and higher level of CD consumption. In order to further reduce SSB consumption in Thailand, more comprehensive, multifaceted policies and strategies are needed to complement the existing SSB taxation policy in Thailand, with a particular focus on addressing particular sociodemographic groups and other health-related behaviors.