Promoting healthy lifestyles using digital technology in the Pacific Islands: The case of the Solomon Islands.

Abstract

The Pacific Islands Countries and Territories (PICTs) face a health and economic crisis due to the obesity and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) pandemic in adults, with an alarming trend predicted for children and adolescents. Governments have implemented strategies to promote healthy lifestyles; however, the rapid growth of internet access and digital technology use in the region presents new opportunities for health promotion among adolescents.

This research aimed to examine 1) whether digital technology was targeted for health promotion in PICTs and 2) how health workers or educators may utilise digital technology to promote healthy lifestyles among adolescents, focusing on the Solomon Islands. The thesis comprises three studies: (1) a scoping review to assess integration of digital technology in health policies and action plans; (2) a methodological study to develop and pilot a participatory research approach; and (3) a qualitative study through a participatory research workshop to explore government stakeholders' perspectives on opportunities and challenges for digital health promotion.

Findings indicate that while digital technology is referenced in policies, it is neither strategically integrated nor prioritised. Existing digital health initiatives show uneven application and limited focus on adolescents. Although social media and mobile platforms offer significant potential, barriers such as limited access to devices, connectivity costs, and low digital literacy persist. Opportunities include establishing partnerships across sectors, involving adolescents in co-designing culturally relevant digital content, and integrating Information, Communication, and Technology (ICT) into the school curriculum.

A government-led multisectoral strategy is essential to advance digital health promotion for adolescents in PICTs. The way forward is to engage and explore adolescents’ perspectives on digital technology and their health needs.