Preventing Non-communicable Diseases in Guatemala Through Sugary Drink Reduction

Preventing Non-communicable Diseases in Guatemala Through Sugary Drink Reduction

Sugar-sweetened beverages are a significant contributor to adult and childhood obesity in Guatemala. Policies to place health warning labels on sugar-sweetened beverages are being pursued, but there is little empirical data on how such labels influence people. The primary aim of this study is to test the association between sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) warning posters compared to control posters and change in SSBs purchased compared to baseline by adolescents shopping at school cafeterias in Guatemala City, Guatemala. The hypothesis is that posters with information warning people of the health harms associated with overconsuming SSBs and promoting low sugar beverages will be associated with greater reductions in SSB purchases compared to a control poster.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Between 12 and 18 years old
• Made a food or beverage purchase
• Has permission from parent or caregiver to participate
• Has not yet completed the purchase assessment

Exclusion Criteria:

• Under 12 or over 18 years old
• Did not make a food or beverage purchase
• Parent or caregiver refused to give child permission to participate
• Already participated in the purchase assessment