KINGSTON, Jamaica — Prominent medical doctor, Senator Dr Elon B Thompson, is urging Jamaicans to view the proposed tax on sugary drinks as more than an economic measure, arguing that it could have far-reaching benefits for public health, including sexual and reproductive wellness.

In a statement on Monday, Dr Thompson expressed strong support for Jamaica’s sugary beverages tax, framing it as a preventive health strategy rather than simply a revenue-raising tool.

The consultant urologist and former president of the Jamaica Medical Doctors’ Association said the national conversation has focused heavily on consumer costs and business implications, but insufficient attention has been paid to the medical consequences of excessive sugar consumption.

He pointed out that Jamaica continues to face high rates of obesity, diabetes and hypertension which are conditions widely known to increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. However, he stressed that these illnesses also significantly affect sexual health in both men and women.

“Sexual health is closely tied to vascular, hormonal and neurological function. When blood vessels are damaged by high blood sugar or long-standing hypertension, normal sexual response can be impaired in both males and females,” Dr Thompson stated.

He noted that excessive sugar consumption significantly increases the risk of Type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.

Dr Thompson says it must be noted that diabetes, in particular, damages blood vessels and nerves throughout the body, including those essential for sexual arousal, performance and satisfaction. In many cases, sexual dysfunction can serve as an early warning sign of underlying cardiovascular disease.

He is stressing that the proposed tax on sugary drinks should not be viewed merely as a revenue-generating initiative but as a preventive public health strategy.

According to Dr Thompson, by discouraging excessive consumption of sugary beverages, the Government aims to reduce long-term rates of obesity and diabetes, which in turn can improve cardiovascular and sexual health outcomes. There is a profound and intergenerational connection between rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and declining fertility rates.

“Medications can address symptoms of sexual dysfunction, but healthy lifestyle choices address root causes. Reducing sugar intake, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and controlling blood pressure and blood glucose are foundational to overall wellness—including sexual health,” he said.

The senator pointed to international examples where similar measures have yielded positive results, with countries such as Mexico, United Kingdom, South Africa, and Barbados recording reductions in sugary beverage purchases following the implementation of sugar taxes.

“Reducing sugar consumption today can prevent chronic disease tomorrow and protect the health and well-being of all Jamaicans,” Dr Thompson affirmed.

He hailed Prime Minister Andrew Holness and the Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr Christopher Tufton, for recognising the importance of tackling non-communicable diseases through comprehensive public health initiatives.

He highlighted that the proposed sugary drink tax complements the Ministry of Health and Wellness’ national strategic and action plan for the prevention and control of NCDs, with existing programmes such as the “Know your numbers” campaign and Jamaica Moves, aimed at encouraging physical activity and healthier lifestyle choices across the island.

Dr Thompson reiterated that addressing Jamaica’s growing burden of non-communicable diseases requires a holistic approach and that fiscal measures which encourage healthier behaviour are critical components of a broader prevention strategy.