How effective are nudges in the health domain? This review paper answers this.

What is it about?

In this review we focus on three areas of concern: theory, evidence base, ethics. We begin by discussing the problems arising from the two-process/two system account that nudges are based on. We propose an alternative framework that helps to classify nudges and explain the process that might lead to how they potentially influence behavioural change. We then go on to evaluate the evidence base for the use of nudges in the health domain, and show that very few nudge type interventions have any reliable positive effect on behavior.

Featured Image

Why is it important?

Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs)—principally, heart diseases, stroke, cancer, diabetes, and chronic lung diseases—are responsible for almost 70% of global deaths. The thing is, most NCDs can be reduced by targeting four main risk factors: tobacco use, physical inactivity, harmful use of alcohol, and an unhealthy diet. This review suggests that, while nudges (behavioural interventions) are a good idea in principle, on their own they aren't the answer to solving the problem of NCDS. The evidence based for nudges promoting healthier lifestyle changes is weak, the theory underpinning the Nudge program is incoherent, and there are several ethical issues that it still has to tackle.