Acceptance of healthy lifestyle nudges in the general population of Singapore

Abstract

Background In recent years, behaviourally driven policies such as nudges have been increasingly implemented to steer desired outcomes in public health. This study examines the different nudges and the socio-demographic characteristics and lifestyle behaviours that are associated with public acceptance of lifestyle nudges. Methods The study used data from the nationwide Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices study (KAP) on diabetes in Singapore. Three types of nudges arranged in increasing order of intrusiveness were examined: (1) information government campaigns, (2) government mandated information and (3) default rules and choice architecture. Acceptance was assessed based upon how much respondents ‘agreed’ with related statements describing heathy lifestyle nudges. Multivariable linear regressions were performed with socio-demographics and lifestyle behaviours using scores calculated for each nudge. Results The percentage of respondents who agreed to all statements related to each nudge were: 75.9% (information government campaigns), 73.0% (government mandated information), and 33.4% (default rules and choice architecture). Respondents of Malay/Others ethnicity (vs. Chinese) were more likely to accept information government campaigns. Respondents who were 18 – 34 years old (vs 65 years and above), female, of Malay/Indian ethnicity (vs Chinese), were sufficiently physically active, and with a healthier diet based on the DASH (Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension) score were more likely to accept nudges related to government mandated information. Respondents of Malay/Indian ethnicity (vs Chinese), and who had a healthier diet were more likely to accept default rules and choice architecture. Conclusion Individuals prefer less intrusive approaches for promoting healthy lifestyle. Ethnicity and lifestyle behaviours are associated with acceptance of nudges and should be taken into consideration during the formulation and implementation of behaviourally informed health policies.

The mental and physical wellbeing flow within the People Value Stream

“…Examples of this might include placing healthy food in easy-to-find areas in a canteen to remind people about healthy eating. However, it is important that these nudges are minimally intrusive to the individual, for instance, by providing the calorific count of food, or else they may be viewed in a negative light [180] .…”

Exploring views and experiences of the general public’s adoption of digital technologies for healthy lifestyle in Singapore: a qualitative study

“…Indeed, in Singapore, internet penetration is as high as 92% and over 90% of all adults own a smart phone. A wide spectrum of players have begun leveraging digital technologies to nudge consumers to greater participation in healthy lifestyle promoting behaviors ( 28 ) —not only public healthcare incumbents like the government, but also private entrants such as insurance conglomerates and health consumer-technology giants. One such national movement in Singapore is ActiveSG ( 29 ); complimentary for all Singapore citizens and permanent residents to promote a healthy lifestyle through sports and sporting activities virtual or otherwise.…”