The Nexus between Health Behavior and Health Outcomes in China: The Role of Dietary Habits

Objectives: Due to the rapidly growing urbanization, economic development, and lifestyle changes in China, health behavior activities like health screening, body mass index, medication adherence, sleeping patterns, and physical activities are significant determinants of health outcomes. These activities are directly associated with health outcomes like the risk of chronic diseases, life expectancy, and mental health conditions. This study aimed to examine the nexus between health behavioral activities and health outcomes, and how the two enhanced the health of the Chinese population. Methods: A sample size of 489 participants was chosen through a convenience random sampling technique, to participate in a survey-based research study using a cross-sectional method. These participants belonged to the Zhejiang, Jiangxi and Fujian regions of China. The data was analyzed using partial least square-SEM. Results: Results highlight that health screening participation, monitoring the body mass index (BMI), medication adherence, sleeping pattern, and physical activity significantly contribute to improving health outcomes of people in China. Furthermore, results indicate that dietary habits significantly moderate the relationship between the explanatory variables. Conclusion: This study will enhance the understanding of proper sleep hygiene and exercise requirements, especially in China, and will show the significance of dietary habits as they incorporate health-promoting behavior. The policymakers should focus on health checkups, controlled BMI, medication adherence, and emphasize proper sleep patterns and involvement in physical activities.