A landmark U.S.-led survey has quantified the devastating toll of sodas and sugary drinks. Covering 1980 to 2010, it reviewed 62 dietary studies across 51 countries, drawing on data from nearly 612,000 participants to evaluate health risks. The results are stark: about 184,000 people die yearly from diseases tied to heavy sugary drink consumption.
Diabetes leads with 133,000 deaths annually, followed by cardiovascular diseases (45,000 deaths) and cancers (6,450 deaths).
Mexico tops the list
Mexico suffers the highest per capita losses, with 24,000 deaths each year. The U.S., epicenter of junk food and soda culture where obesity affects half the population, sees 25,000 deaths—or 125 per million inhabitants.
Around 76% of deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries, hitting young people hardest with chronic illnesses.
If you're a soda lover struggling to quit, here are 10 strong reasons to cut back.
