Transforming health education in China in support of proactive health

Objective: This study’s objective is to explore pathways for transforming China’s health education system by engaging with proactive health, with the ultimate goal of enhancing national health literacy and reducing the burden of disease. Design: A theoretical framework for multidimensional transformation was developed, informed by social cognitive theory, social ecological theory, and complexity science. Setting: Work took place within the context of China’s rapid socioeconomic development, where the coexistence of an ageing population, a high prevalence of chronic diseases, and inadequate health literacy has rendered traditional models of health education unsustainable. Methods: Deficiencies in the current health education system were identified and critically analysed. To support a move towards proactive health, six pathways of change were proposed: content optimisation, methodological innovation, educational materials, development, target demographics, policy safeguards, and technological empowerment. Results: A systematic solution is advanced, positioning health education as a core pillar of the Healthy China development strategy. The framework projects that by 2035, national health indicators should attain levels comparable with those of moderately developed countries. Conclusion: Systemic transformation requires multi-stakeholder collaboration, accompanied by conceptual restructuring and technological development. Each of these measures is key to enhancing health literacy and advancing the implementation of the Healthy China strategy.