Pre-conference: Using Systems Thinking to enhance knowledge dissemination and promote healthier behaviour

Tuesday 12 November, 13:30 – 17:00 Lisbon time (starting with network lunch at 12:30)


Organised by

International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC-WHO) 

Background

Guided by a Systems Thinking approach, this participatory workshop aims to brainstorm and exchange ideas on how to improve our efforts on disseminating health information and disease prevention to various target audiences. Systems Thinking methods offer the opportunity to explore innovative strategies that foster a more collaborative, multi-level stakeholder approach to transfer prevention knowledge with the goal of improving population health. We wish to bring together researchers and communication experts to identify strategies that enhance the dissemination of NCD prevention information, in particular cancer prevention, to several segments of the population – namely, the general public, health professionals and policymakers.

This workshop will have a strong practical component, utilising the EU Cancer Prevention Education Tool – the European Code Against Cancer (ECAC). Although the ECAC is focused on cancer prevention, due to the commonalities of risk factors between cancer and other NCDs, the outcomes will be equally relevant for those in the field of NCD prevention and public health. Activities will be focused on knowledge generation and synthesis, which will result in participants leaving with a “tool kit” of dissemination strategies and methods.

Objectives

This half-day workshop offers the opportunity to learn (through active or hands-on participation) how to use systems thinking methods for knowledge generation and engage and collaborate with like-minded experts and researchers. By the end of the workshop, you will:

  • Understand the barriers and facilitators to disseminating evidence-based prevention information, and how to bridge the gaps.
  • Gain experience in a systems thinking method to take back and use in your daily work.
  • Have an opportunity to share your knowledge and experiences and contribute to effective dissemination of prevention education to various audiences.
  • Leave with a (metaphorical) toolkit of dissemination strategies that will aide in translating research into action.
  • Network and collaborate with experts across Europe.

Target audience

Those involved and interested in communication and dissemination activities, especially to the general public, health professionals and policymakers.

Programme

The programme of the pre-conference can be downloaded here.

Registration

The registration fee is EUR 75. Networking lunch and refreshments are included.