Health Behaviour Change in Brazilians

Chronic diseases are the leading health problem in Brazil and Canada. Such diseases share common risk factors in common, such as physical inactivity, poor diet, and smoking. This context requires a comprehensive approach to change these behavioural risk factors, aiming at the promotion of healthy lifestyles and the prevention of diseases. Although Brazil and Canada have significant differences, particularly in terms of socioeconomic factors, some similarities in the health domain allow both countries to mutually benefit from an exchange of knowledge. For instance, the newest version of Canada's dietary guidelines has incorporated several aspects presented in the pioneering evidence-based dietary guidelines for the Brazilian population, launched in 2014. Similarly, Brazil can greatly benefit if the country follows the Canadian lead in prioritizing investment in physical activity initiatives. The present project aims to verify the effectiveness of a Canadian program to change health behaviours, specifically physical inactivity, poor diet, and smoking, adapted for Brazilians. The project consists of a 12-week randomized controlled trial, based on education and behaviour change techniques focusing on physical activity, healthy eating habits, and smoking cessation. Pre-, post, and 3-month follow-up health and fitness assessments will evaluate respectively the initial condition of the participants, eventual changes and if the changes persist.