Can Taxes on Sugar-Sweetened Beverages Reduce Obesity?

Americans are becoming increasingly overweight and obese. During the past four decades, the obesity rate for children ages 6 to 11 has more than quadrupled, and more than tripled for adolescents. The negative consequences of obesity, including diabetes, heart disease, and stroke, make it a major public health problem. Approximately $79 billion is spent each year for over-weight and obesity, with about one-half of these costs paid by Medicare and Medicaid.