We included 103 reviews published between 1995 and 2008. The focus of interventions varied, but those
targeting specific individuals were generally designed to change an existing behaviour (e.g. cigarette smoking,
alcohol misuse), whilst those aimed at the general population or groups such as school children were designed to
promote positive behaviours (e.g. healthy eating). Almost 50% (n = 48) of the reviews focussed on smoking (either
prevention or cessation). Interventions that were most effective across a range of health behaviours included
physician advice or individual counselling, and workplace- and school-based activities. Mass media campaigns and
legislative interventions also showed small to moderate effects in changing health behaviours.
Generally, the evidence related to short-term effects rather than sustained/longer-term impact and there was a
relative lack of evidence on how best to address inequalities.