New York State tax on sugar-sweetened beverages: A pilot survey of behaviors and knowledge

Objective: To assess the current beverage consumption patterns and anticipated consumption in the event of a sales tax on sugar-sweetened beverages among New York State adults. Methods: A random-digit dialed (RDD) telephone 20-minute interview is being administered to 1000 adult residents of New York State. Survey questions assess age, gender, race and ethnicity, current beverage consumption behaviors, knowledge about sugar-sweetened beverages and health, and intentions regarding consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages in the event of tax on these beverages. Results: To date, we have obtained a total of 466 interviews, and fieldwork is ongoing. Respondents reported drinking an average of 8.8 sugar-sweetened beverages, and 39.5 unsweetened beverages in the past week. Lower income, Black or Hispanic respondents were more likely to report drinking a sugar-sweetened beverage in the past week (p<0.05). 93% knew that frequent consumption of soft drinks increases risk of obesity. Most knew that obesity is related to diabetes (75), heart disease (91), and hypertension (78), but less than half knew that obesity is related to asthma (39%) or cancer (43%). One third of respondents said that they would cut back on their sweetened beverage consumption in the event of a 20% tax on these beverages. Conclusions: Many adults consume sugar-sweetened beverages on a regular basis. Our findings suggest that a tax on these beverages could influence some to cut down on their consumption, reducing their risk of obesity and related illnesses.