Room for improvement of food and health promotion literacy among employees with low and medium levels of education
The adaptation and implementation of health promotion interventions for people with a low socioeconomic position is possible and promising, according to research by health psychologist Hanne Sponselee.
Room for improvement of food and health promotion literacy was found among employees with at most vocational secondary education, who mostly work in blue-collar work settings. These employees generally work in blue-collar work setting, and their intention to participate in workplace health promotion programmes was mostly influenced by their job type and working conditions. Stakeholders in blue-collar work settings perceived a sense of professional obligation regarding workplace health promotion and thought the current societal focus on health provided opportunities. Regarding a pragmatic trial on lifestyle intervention SMARTsize version 2021, a decrease in BMI and satisfaction among participants with overweight and obesity was found. However, challenges were present, partly due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Overall, it was concluded that the adaptation and implementation of health promotion interventions focused on healthy lifestyle behaviours and food environments is possible and promising. In these efforts, the integration of health literacy should be considered an opportunity.
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