NEW research has found that adults who consume a higher proportion of their daily calories from sugar-sweetened beverages are more likely to report chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The findings, based on a large, nationally representative US sample, add to growing evidence that diet may play a role in respiratory health, alongside established factors such as age, smoking, and body weight.
COPD is a long-term lung condition that makes breathing difficult due to airflow obstruction. It includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis and is a major cause of disability worldwide. The condition typically develops from a mix of environmental, genetic, and lifestyle factors, many of which are preventable or modifiable.
Study Links Higher Sugar Intake to COPD
Researchers analysed data from over 11,000 adults aged over 18 years collected between 2015 and 2020 through the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Participants reported their daily food and drink intake, including the proportion of calories derived from sugar-sweetened beverages such as soft drinks and energy drinks.
After adjusting for multiple confounders, including smoking status, age, sex, income, BMI, and insurance coverage, those who obtained 10% or more of their daily calories from sugary drinks had a 39% higher likelihood of having COPD compared with those consuming less than 10%.
The analysis also confirmed that COPD was more common among women, older adults, people living in poverty, those without health insurance, and current smokers.
Implications for Clinical Practice and Prevention
Although the study was cross-sectional and does not prove causation, the consistent association between sugary drink intake and COPD highlights a new area for preventive health interventions. Nutritional counselling, whether in general practice, respiratory clinics, or dental hygiene settings, could incorporate education about sugary drink consumption as part of wider lifestyle advice. By raising awareness of the potential impact of diet on respiratory as well as oral health, clinicians may help patients adopt choices that support both lung function and overall wellbeing.
Reference
Wiener RC et al. Consideration of chronic pulmonary disease and consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages in the dental hygiene care plan. J Dent Hyg. 2026;100(1):50-59.
