Lifestyle and heart diseases in choice experiments

Abstract

Choice experiments (CE) are used to understand individuals’ choices in all types of situations using hypothetical scenarios. In this chapter, I review CE applied on lifestyle interventions within the context of heart diseases and other health problems. In terms of diet, a CE shows how important healthiness is in order to explain food choices. It demonstrates how information is essential to orientate costumers. Within this context labels with simple and clear messages such as traffic light system or daily guidelines, along with health claims, are efficient ways to inform. For physical activity, it is more important to have convenience facilities for exercise and a well-designed and well-built environment for walking and other moderate exercises. Individuals might trade between diet and exercise in the context of a risk of suffering heart disease, showing more inclination for exercise rather than diet. The most effective interventions are those who comprise a cash reward.