Theories of health behaviour in health promotion varies. My research framework is based on a sociological theory but has other theories infused in it like the health belief and transtheoretical model (stages of change). Religion seats deeply in these theories so I have to adapt.

A journey from Lagos started a conversation about handwashing with a 3 years old boy. I realised I had to lay my health talk on a transtheoretical model. He contemplated the importance of handwashing. I gave solid reasons why he should do it. He mentioned his key barrier...

He said, my pastor said, sickness will not kill us. Something about prayer and faith. I backed my words with Bible and science. He looked at me puzzled, he was prepared to take action. But I had to seal the deal with something.

I shared a video done by @bolu_aderounmu for my recent work with @RSTMH. It's in English and it shattered the myths . The boy's face told me I had won. Next thing, I heard was, "Grandma, I want to wash my hands now".

I sha need to do this in Pidgin English

We continued talking for another two hours. I was trying to keep his determination and planned action. When we took a break, he came down to wash his hands. Then asked for a sanitiser to act as double effect. My mum thought I performed magic . I used my Paediatrics skills.

Eventually, he may relapse if he doesn't see anyone practicing effective handwashing at home or in school (systems). However, with consistent messages and planned actions he could maintain this behaviour and it becomes a culture. It's a cycle and very complex but we have to do it

People do health promotion in many ways. I see it as health evangelism. It's not a fire brigade work. It's requires the sociological theory approach with other theories of infused. Oya, let me go and think of my next evangelical mission with @harleeymah_oyin and @LammyMide