23rd January 2025 – (Hong Kong) The Department of Health (DH) has released the 2023 Report of Health Behaviour Survey (HBS), underscoring the necessity for Hong Kong residents to adopt healthier lifestyles to mitigate the risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The survey, conducted from July to November 2023, involved over 4,800 participants aged 15 and above, revealing concerning trends in health-related behaviours.
Among the findings, 14.8% of adults aged 18 and older were classified as insufficiently active, failing to meet the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) recommendation of at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity per week. This marks an improvement from the 24.8% recorded in the previous Population Health Survey, likely reflecting a return to normalcy post-COVID-19.
In terms of diet, a staggering 97% of respondents reported inadequate fruit and vegetable intake, falling short of the WHO’s guideline of consuming at least 400 grams—or five servings—per day. Meanwhile, the prevalence of binge drinking among those aged 15 and above increased slightly from 2% to 2.7%.
Preventive health practices showed mixed results; while colorectal cancer screening rates among individuals aged 50 to 75 rose from 42.6% to 46.2%, cervical screening rates for women aged 25 to 64 dropped to 49.8%, down from 52.1%.
In response to these findings, the Government is committed to enhancing public health initiatives. The Chief Executive’s 2024 Policy Address announced plans for a life-course health promotion strategy tailored to Hong Kong’s demographic needs. The DH is implementing various strategies to advocate for balanced diets and regular exercise within schools, workplaces, and communities.
Additionally, the DH has introduced an electronic alcohol screening tool to assist individuals in assessing their drinking habits and seeking guidance. A Pilot Alcohol Cessation Counselling Service has also been launched to offer free support to those identified as at risk of alcohol dependence.
The Primary Healthcare Commission is advancing a “life course preventive care plan” in District Health Centres, aiming to provide personalised healthcare based on individual risk factors. As of November 2024, the District Health Centres reported over 330,000 members benefiting from tailored health services.
A DH spokesperson urged the public to lead healthier lifestyles by maintaining regular physical activity, eating a balanced diet, managing body weight, refraining from smoking, and limiting alcohol intake. Eligible individuals are encouraged to participate in government-subsidised cancer screening programmes, including those for colorectal and cervical cancers, and to consult healthcare professionals for the latest recommendations regarding health assessments.
