Healthy Lifestyle Promotion as an Instrument of the State Policy in the Field of Public Health in Modern Russia

Abstract

The article provides a sociological interpretation of how the modern Russian state pursues the promotion of a healthy lifestyle. This process is analyzed through the theoretical framework of social constructionism; the term "healthism" is employed here in order to problematize the government’s activity in the development of a "proper" attitude towards health. The authors adopt a broad understanding in conceptualizing a "healthy lifestyle"; this includes both the behavioral characteristics and the specific living conditions of the individual, as well as a more narrow focus on the choice of a particular behavioral model by the individual. An analysis of publications in Russian Internet media and state-owned newspapers was conducted in order to highlight the main forms of healthy lifestyle promotion currently carried out by the Russian state. These include: legislation prioritizing the promotion of a healthy lifestyle; the personal involvement of Russian political leaders in sport and physical activity; the implementation of health promotion campaigns as a part of global sport events such as the Winter Olympics or the World Cup; and representatives of the government presenting themselves in the mass media as "health experts". The authors conclude that, while the promotion of a healthy lifestyle is growing rapidly in the Russian Public Health system, there remains a narrow understanding of what the term «healthy lifestyle» actually means. This limited understanding dominates political decisions in Russia today. Public health policy requires a more complex understanding of «lifestyle»; one including not only behavior aspects but also focusing on social and economic conditions.