Location:
Room 12.2.21 DCSPTStart Date:
GOVCOPP Research Seminar - February
The next GOVCOPP Research Seminar of 2025 will take place on the 26 th of February. Join us between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. for a session that will gather four thought-provoking presentations on Good Health and Well-Being.
Good Health and Well-Being
26 February 2025
Room 12.2.21 (DCSPT)
1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
CIS Research Group
Improving the well-being of people and the planet: A Delphi Study
Abstract
This study represents a pioneering effort to integrate the fields of happiness economics and environmental sustainability using the Delphi method to propose actionable strategies for a more sustainable and fulfilling future. By consulting a multidisciplinary panel of 16 experts, this research identified policy measures and individual actions that simultaneously enhance subjective well-being (SWB) and promote environmental sustainability. Through a two-round Delphi process, the experts suggested and evaluated 34 policy measures and 23 individual actions across four dimensions: EnvironmentalEffectiveness, SWB Effectiveness, Feasibility, and Cost-Effectiveness. Key policy recommendations include prioritizing human wellbeing and environmental sustainability, implementing wellbeing-based cost-benefit analyses for externalities, and reducing car use.
Individual actions such as cultivating social relationships, engaging in pro-social voluntary activities, and reducing conspicuous consumption emerged as highly effective. The findings highlight a growing consensus on the need to shift from a growth-centered economy towards one that prioritizes well-being and sustainability. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers and individuals, emphasizing the potential for integrative strategies to address the dual challenges of improving human and planetary health. Future research should further explore the implementation of these strategies and their impact across diverse contexts.
PI2 Research Group
"Municipal Health Promotion Programs in Portugal: The Example of Childhood Obesity
Abstract
Health enhancement initiatives, targeting specific health outcomes like pediatric overweight, are increasingly implemented at the local level worldwide. Consequently, there is a growing need to elucidate the function of local administrations (municipalities) as crucial public health advocates, particularly in combating excess weight in young children. Our objective was to offer insights into this matter in Portugal. lnitially, we identified wellness-promoting programs initiated by Portuguese municipalities that were accessible to children. Subsequently, we performed a document review to shed light on how municipalities conceptualized child health. This was achieved by extracting information on the focal points or areas of action within these programs and determining which levels of the socio-ecological model were addressed (or overlooked) by each initiative. The study identified 77 programs launched by 30 out of 308 Portuguese municipalities, with only 11 programs specifically addressing pediatric overweight.
The majority of these initiatives concentrated on individual health determinants and provided limited information, hindering a more comprehensive analysis.Portuguese municipalities appear to underestimate their potential as public health advocates. While childhood overweight is a significant public health concern at the national (and global) level, this urgency does not seem to translate to the local stage. As the government entities closest to the population, municipalities bear the responsibility of ensuring the community's well-being by addressing social determinants and physical environments. Therefore, local administrations should recognize health as a priority in their actions and design wellness improvement programs based on current evidence. This is particularly crucial in the case of pediatric overweight prevention, which not only represents a health issue in itself but also serves as a risk factor for non-communicable diseases.
SAD Research Group
From Olive Oil Lovers to Mediterranean Diet Lifestyle Followers: Consumption Pattern Segmentation in the Portuguese Context
Abstract
The Mediterranean Diet (MedDiet) is considered an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO; it is also the world’s most evidence-based eating pattern for promoting health and longevity. This study aims to investigate consumer segmentation based on consumption patterns and identify barriers to adherence to MedDiet. Data were collected in 2020 by telephonic survey based on PREDIMED, using a quota sampling technique by socio-demographic variables, such as gender, age, and regional representation of the Portuguese population. The final sample was composed of a total of 1000 respondents. The main results show that regardless of the awareness of the MedDiet (62%), Portugal witnessed a loss of the traditional MedDiet, with the exception of the stand-out statistic that 95% of respondents still use of olive oil as the main culinary fat. Five segments were identified: (1) MedDiet lifestyle followers (11%), (2) olive oil lovers (20%), (3) low-sugar diet foods seekers (11%), (4) healthy and balanced diet seekers (28%), and (5) low-fat diet foods seekers (30%). The main barriers to adhering to the MedDiet include lack of knowledge about the MedDiet, education level, financial comfort, and specific food preference, which by segment are: (1) being passionate about soda drinks, (2) an excess of sweets, (3) low level of pasta consumption, and a (5) lack of fruit, vegetables, and legumes. Segment (4) holds a leading position in MedDiet adherence. The main obstacle to consuming fish is its high price, taste, and challenges in cooking it. When it comes to bread and oleaginous nuts, the belief that these foods are “fattening” reduces consumption. Results help to tailor education strategy and increase adherence to the Mediterranean lifestyle.
TD Research Group
Determinants of Thermal Spa Choices in Portugal: Sociodemographic, Motivations, and Sustainability
Abstract
Health and wellness tourism has gained increasing prominence in contemporary society, reflecting the social and behavioural transformations in understanding health. Within this context, thermal facilities emerge as attractive destinations for a market seeking therapeutic solutions and leisure experiences enriched by the unique properties of natural mineral waters (NMW). This duality of motivations translates into two distinct tourism segments: Health Tourism, focused on treatments, and Wellness Tourism, referred to as Thermal Spa Tourism or Wellness Thermalism, focusing on relaxation and revitalisation experiences. Despite the promising potential of wellness thermalism in Portugal, knowledge regarding the profile and motivations of tourists engaging in this practice remains limited. This study aims to address this gap by identifying:
i. The most sought-after services and treatments.
ii. The main motivations (push factors) for engaging specifically in thermal spa tourism.
iii. The dimensions and attributes considered most relevant in selecting thermal spas (pull factors), including those related to sustainability, given the growing relevance of this concept in the tourist and society.
Additionally, the study explores the relationship between sociodemographic characteristics - such as gender, age, and income - and push factors, including sustainability. To achieve these objectives, an online questionnaire was designed to gather data on domestic tourists who have visited thermal spas in Portugal. While data collection is ongoing, the present analysis is based on 67 valid responses. Although this is a preliminary study, the findings indicate that relaxation is the primary motivation for this sample, followed by the pursuit of holistic well-being. The most highly regarded treatments and services emphasise detoxification/ relaxation and are also associated with the properties of NMW. At the same time, the most influential aspects in decision-making include the quality of the environment (e.g. tranquility) and the courtesy and competence of therapists. Even though not the most decisive attribute in selecting thermal facilities, sustainability is a significant consideration, particularly among women, younger generations, and those with higher incomes. It is important to note that, due to sample limitations, these results should be interpreted cautiously and are not generalisable to the broader target population.
This article seeks to understand what tourists desire in thermal spas for their well-being and how emerging trends, such as sustainability, affect their choices. Grasping these shifts is vital for devising more innovative marketing strategies. By adapting to the needs and motivations of various generations, thermal spas can create more meaningful and engaging experiences for their visitors
Registrations are open until February 19 th to attend the seminar and for the lunch that preceeds it. If you only wish to attend the seminar you can register until February 25 th.
