Conquering today’s health paradox with the power of HEAL – an expert consensus report plus research priorities and policymaker roadmap

Abstract

Background – Despite growing scientific evidence and health guidelines, the global health paradox persists, with rising lifestyle-related diseases and escalating healthcare costs exposing the inadequacy of current efforts. Objective – Three multidisciplinary congresses were held to generate evidence-based conclusions aimed at addressing the global health paradox. Methods – A total of 58 experts from 62 entities participated in the international research and knowledge-exchange panels. Experts reviewed the latest findings to develop practical strategies and identify key research and policy priorities, focusing on the Healthy Eating & Active Living (HEAL) approach. Results, conclusion, and relevance – The expert consortium endorsed a 33 evidence-based consensual-statement policy roadmap for addressing global health challenges, emphasizing that the HEAL approach can significantly contribute to the “Prevention First” appeal and broad ethical, social, ecological, and economic advantages, and ultimately supporting policy change.