Jamaica is endorsing efforts to mainstream behavioural sciences in public health, as the world looks to build back better from COVID-19.
“Behavioural sciences are necessary in understanding the decision-making process and the barriers to health-related behaviours of individuals and the wider population. It is becoming increasingly important that behavioural sciences approaches are taken into consideration in designing national health policies and programmes to tackle, in particular, non-communicable diseases (NCDS),” said Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. Christopher Tufton, speaking at the World Health Assembly’s (WHA’s) 75 Strategic Roundtable last Friday (May 27) in Geneva, Switzerland.
“Cultural practices”, he said, “influence behaviour”; and it is this reasoning that has influenced the design and implementation of the now world-famous Jamaica Moves programme.
“This approach was a major underpinning of the Jamaica Moves initiative which utilises a variety of activities, inspired by Jamaican culture. Music and dance, a festive atmosphere and informal discussions to promote physical activity, healthy eating and wellness checks enlisted participation leading to behaviour change,” he noted.
Jamaica, the Minister said, is even now building on that effort with the introduction of Jamaica Moves in Schools.
“The introduction of the initiative in schools is aimed at curbing the rising rate of obesity and encouraging a change in attitudes and behaviours of young children and adolescents towards physical activities, health and well-being. Plans are also underway for the launch of Caribbean Moves,” he revealed.
It is against this background that Jamaica has given its endorsement to the World Health Organisation’s (WHO’s) move to strengthen the integration of behavioural sciences in public health, for better health outcomes.
“Key to that process will be to bring behavioural scientists and policymakers together; training and capacity building to assist national initiatives to promote behavioural science principles and assessment of the immediate and long-term impact of our programmes. The support of the WHO will be critical in this regard,” Dr. Tufton said.
“Jamaica, therefore, welcomes the Report by the Director General which not only highlights the commitment of the WHO to mainstreaming and increasing the use of behavioural sciences, but also provides a clear outline of the areas of focus for the period 2022-2023. We are pleased at the initiative to propose a Draft Resolution on behavioural health with a view to its tabling at the next WHA,” he added.
As that Resolution is contemplated, the Minister said it is imperative that there be collaboration with the WHO; extensive knowledge sharing and exchange of best practices among countries; and the creation of sustainable partnerships.
“Jamaica looks forward to further sharing additional views and collaborating with like-minded countries on this proposed resolution,” he said.