An estimation of approximately 160 million Americans are either obese or overweight. Recently, a new study has shown that a good majority of the population has met those standards known as obesity. Due to the high rate of obesity, the tax on all sodas and carbonated beverages will now increase.

“Importantly, out evidence comes from low-income and diverse neighborhoods, which have the highest burden of diabetes and cardiovascular disease, not to mention a higher prevalence of advertising promoting unhealthy diets” claims Kristine Madsen, a faculty director at the Berkeley Food Institute.

With this change, officials hope that this will lessen the risk of individuals suffering with obesity or being over weight. Also according to Kristine Madsen,  “We want to end this epidemic of diabetes and obesity, and taxes are a form of counter messaging, to balance corporate advertising”. Some states have already raised taxes for soda beverages and have seen a massive change and decrease when it comes to diabetes and obesity. For example, the study has shown that putting a higher tax on soda can influence what people buy, and can encourage healthier drinking habits. This can also lessen the risk of heart disease, tooth decay or any other health problems.