The role of lifestyles in the commitment to the Unites Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3. An exploratory study

Abstract

PurposeThe World Health Organisation recognises that health and well-being are essential to achieve the United Nations Development Agenda 2030. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading causes of ill-health worldwide. Much of the global burden of NCD is caused by individual unhealthy behaviours. A behavioural mindset shift is needed to reduce premature NCD mortality. This article provides an exploratory analysis to understand whether Portuguese society is on the path to achieving better health by considering certain unacceptable individual lifestyles that contribute to diseases and could be avoided.Design/methodology/approachAn online questionnaire was used to collect data from 558 Portuguese citizens. Descriptive statistics and non-parametric tests were used to (1) assess whether respondents were aware of premature mortality caused by NCDs, (2) explore whether individuals should be accountable for their disease-related behaviours, and (3) test for associations between this accountability and respondents sociodemographic and health characteristics.FindingsOverall, respondents were unaware of the rate of premature mortality associated with chronic diseases and were unwilling to hold fellow citizens accountable for their unhealthy lifestyles. Following a healthy lifestyle proved relevant in the moralisation of others' unhealthy lifestyles, especially those who practice physical exercise.Originality/valueThis study is the first attempt to awaken attention to the impact that societies' procrastination for others' harmful health behaviours may have on achieving Sustainable Development GoalS (SDGs) and sustainable development.

The impact of lifestyles on non-communicable diseases: an exploratory study in Portugal

“…Thus, if society perceives a strong correlation between an individual's lifestyle and NCDs, it may be possible to discourage unhealthy habits that result in such diseases. This article by Pinho (2023) is based on exploratory research that seeks to understand the extent to which various generations of Portuguese citizens are committed to lifestyles that prevent NCDs. More specifically, the study aims to understand individuals' awareness of and attitude toward behaviors that can contribute to NCDs and high mortality rates.…”

IJHG Review 28.3

“…The four main categories of NCD in the order of numbers of deaths are as follows: cardiovascular disease, cancer, chronic respiratory disease and diabetes. Mental health disorders are also a leading cause of death and are classified as an NCD (Pinho, 2023). Whilst many deaths from NCD can be attributed to personal lifestyle choices, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, poor diet or lack of physical activity, environmental causes are also increasingly responsible.…”

“…The subject matter of the remaining five articles in this issue of IJHG is no less relevant or interesting. Micaela Pinho (2023) examines the relationship of lifestyle choices to the achievement of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. This is highly topical as health practitioners, educators and researchers continue to explore the ways in which behaviour, both on personal and societal levels, affects the health of both individuals and populations.…”

“…Portuguese adults' awareness of non-communicable disease (NCD) and the relationship of lifestyle choices to mortality and morbidity This review is based on the paper -The role of lifestyles in the commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3. An exploratory studyby Pinho M. (2023).…”

“…All of these factors are higher in LMIC. Pinho (2023) examines knowledge, attitudes and commitment to healthy behaviours of Portuguese adults living in Portugal. The data were collected over a six month period using an online survey.…”