The Role of Social Marketing in Preventing Non-Communicable Diseases: A Scoping Review Learning from the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Introduction: The most common cause of worry for health in modern culture is non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Effective management of risk factors is essential when dealing with NCDs. Addressing NCDs requires a multifaceted approach, involving a range of solutions from different perspectives and at various levels, encompassing both individual and national dimensions.
Method: Five databases were searched: JBI, Embase, Emcare, Medline, and Cochrane Systematic Reviews. The papers included reviews of social marketing in any form or empirical information about how social marketing affects the prevention of non-communicable illnesses.
Result: Five papers were chosen from a pool of 36 titles and abstracts. Among the papers, 11 (45.8%) were observational studies conducted in various settings such as communities, hospitals, and clinics, while the remaining articles were from different healthcare facilities. The collected study designs encompassed systematic reviews, narrative reviews, brief communications, scientific reviews, non-randomized control trials, and randomized control trials. Five publications supported their strategies with empirical evidence.
Conclusion: Social marketing approaches intended to prevent and handle NCDs need to be based on a deep comprehension of the intended audience and customized to fit the particular circumstances. Furthermore, they should promptly involve the public and establish connections with stakeholders. The elements of the intervention mix should work together harmoniously and complement each other. Furthermore, it's vital to include health education and capacity building and ensure cultural relevance.