SMART HEALTH Project

The seminar’s main focus was to understand what truly motivates people to adopt healthier behaviours—not only when managing illness, but throughout life. Discussions centred on the invisible barriers that often prevent behavioural change, even when individuals are aware of what is best for their health. Behavioural insights were highlighted as tools not only to raise awareness but also to promote sustained, effective action.

The programme opened with a talk by Professor Miguel Telo de Arriaga, Director of the Directorate for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion at DGS, who shared ongoing initiatives and the importance of stronger ties between academic research and public health services. He was joined by Dr. Leonor Quelhas Pinto, from the Division of Literacy, Health and Well-being.