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Gray could not say how much the proposed levy would increase the cost of alcohol, tobacco, or sugary drinks, but said it would be “miniscule” compared to the importance of creating a separate revenue base to make Alberta healthier.

“It’s about our economy too. If we are healthier, we are more productive, we are less stressed and we drain less money from the health-care system.”

Gray estimated that nearly 90 per cent of all health-care costs go towards dealing with chronic illness, including cancer, diabetes, heart disease and preventable injuries.

Dr. Doreen Rabi, also part of the campaign as a clinician and health researcher at the University of Calgary’s faculty of medicine, says she sees her patients struggling with chronic disease everyday.

“It’s a tough go in this modern world, struggling to manage chronic illness while you try to go on with your day-to-day life. It’s a toll and it really impacts quality of life.”

Rabi added that we need to invest new resources to more effective preventative strategies, including ensuring Albertans exercise more, eat better, and take better precautions around preventable injuries.

According to a Leger Research public opinion poll conducted last summer, nearly 80 per cent of those surveyed want the province to invest in effective strategies to keep people healthy.

But Health Minister Sarah Hoffman said the government won’t introduce new levies as a source of wellness revenue.

“We appreciate the commitment of the Wellness Alberta team and the numerous other stakeholders who are working to improve health outcomes in the province, but we have no plans to introduce a sugar tax.

“Our government is committed to improving health outcomes in our province. That’s why we have initiated a mental health review to help us improve the lives of those living with addiction and mental health challenges.

“As well, we have increased tobacco and smoking regulations in the province to include a ban on menthol-flavoured products.”

eferguson@calgaryherald.com