Sugar-sweetened beverages consumption among the Sámi in Sweden: prevalence and socioeconomic risk factors

Introduction: The consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) is a significant public health issue linked to various diseases like diabetes, obesity, and hypertension. SSB include flavored beverages with added sugars, and their high consumption is prevalent worldwide. Notably, there is limited research on SSB consumption within Indigenous communities, including the Sámi, the only Indigenous group in the European Union. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of SSB consumption and identify associated risk factors among the Sámi population in Sweden. Methods: The research utilized data from the SámiHET survey. A total of 3,658 Sámi aged 18 to 84 responded to the survey, which included questions on health outcomes, lifestyle behaviours, and socioeconomic data. SSB consumption was assessed by frequency of intake, and sociodemographic, socioeconomic, and sociocultural factors were analyzed to identify associated risk factors. Prevalence ratios and their 95% confidence intervals were estimated, using sampling weights to enhance generalizability. Results: The study found that 29.5% of participants reported consuming SSB at least twice a week. Men and younger individuals displayed higher consumption patterns. Statistically significant associations were also observed with lower educational levels and belonging to mountain reindeer herding communities. However, economic stress and income levels were not found to have a statistical association with SSB consumption. Conclusions: The research highlights a substantial consumption of SSB among the Sámi, similar to national levels but lower than other Indigenous groups globally. Factors like gender, age, education, and specific sociocultural contexts (e.g., belonging to a reindeer herding community) were significantly associated with SSB consumption. Culturally adapted public health interventions targeting youth and men and increasing health literacy among the entire Sámi population are recommended to promote better health but also to prevent future chronic diseases.