Policy Package for Healthy Nutrition in Iran
Mohammad Amerzadeh, Amirhossein Takian, Hamed Pouraram, Ali A. Sari, Afshin OstovarAbstract
Background:
Decreasing the prevalence and mortality of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) is a challenge for global public health. Despite many achievements in the control of NCDs, many challenges remain for Iran’s government in combating NCDs. This article is a summary policy package for all sectors related to the healthy diet in Iran, focusing on stakeholders outside the health sector.
Methods:
This is a qualitative study. We conducted this study using semi-structured and face-to-face interviews with 30 purposefully identified key informants from different disciplines. We recorded all interviews digitally, transcribed them verbatim, and thematically analyzed them. We conducted the qualitative content analysis via deductive and inductive approaches for data analysis using MAXQDA 11 software.
Results:
We developed specific recommendations for stakeholders, including a change in educational content and method, creating health-promoting schools, solving technology and financial transactions, adopting appropriate incentives and penalties, industrialization of bread and import of suitable wheat, organizing polluted water and supporting green gardens and greenhouses, and producing vegetables free from toxins and at the right price and packaging.
Conclusions:
Our study has generated a set of targeted recommendations to be followed by various targeted stakeholders. Advocating for change in educational content and methodology and fostering health-promoting schools may help create nurturing environment that encourages positive lifestyle choices. Resolving technology-related issues and streamlining financial transactions can ensure efficient implementation of these recommendations. Adopting appropriate incentives and penalties will incentivize individuals and organizations to participate actively in sustainable practices. Furthermore, industrializing bread production and importing suitable wheat will enhance nutritional value and quality of staple foods. Addressing the issue of polluted water and supporting the establishment of green gardens and greenhouses will contribute to a cleaner environment and improved food security. Lastly, producing toxin-free vegetables at affordable prices and appropriate packaging will promote healthier consumption habits. Meaningful cooperation among identified stakeholders is necessary, we advocate, for implementing these recommendations for creating a sustainable, enabling and environmentally conscious society.