Health, Attitudes, and Behavioural Insights Tracker Survey (HABIT)
Facilitate a better understanding of public health perspectives and outcomes in Canada at the individual, interpersonal, and systems level
Introduction
Launched in September 2023, the Health, Attitudes, and Behavioural Insights Tracker (HABIT) Survey is a data collection tool designed to facilitate a better understanding of public health perspectives and outcomes in Canada at the individual, interpersonal, and systems level. Co-led by Impact Canada and the Behavioural Science Office (BeSciO) at the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), this study aims to identify barriers and drivers that underlie Canadians’ health and well-being.
The HABIT Survey provides a flexible and scalable research infrastructure that allows for data collection based on emerging health priorities. Each survey wave collects data from a representative sample of Canadians and includes a deep dive into one to two topical public health priority areas.
HABIT is designed to complement PHAC’s existing research and surveillance framework by supplementing ongoing research, collecting data on minimally explored topics, and openly sharing data.
Methodology
Each survey wave collects data from a sample of 2,000 Canadians, gathering insights from different individuals each time. Respondents are a representative mix of Canadian adults aged 18 years and older and the results are adjusted using 2021 Statistics Canada census data to accurately reflect the population distribution in Canada. The study also intentionally includes extra participants from groups that are harder to reach or underrepresented, such as specific communities or demographics, which differ from wave to wave.Data Analysis
Impact Canada applies a rigorous approach to data analysis, combining descriptive and inferential statistics to provide a comprehensive understanding of complex health behaviors and outcomes. We look at overall health trends while also breaking down data to uncover key insights. This helps us identify and understand the groups most affected by specific health challenges. Our approach also includes testing communication strategies to learn what works best to build trust and present clear information. Through a mix of big-picture insights and targeted findings, we turn data into clear, useful information that supports the well-being of Canadians.Dissemination
Publishing on the Impact Canada website, sharing with the Government of Canada and the Province/Territory communities. The data are also available to the public through Library and Archives Canada.
Publications
Last modified: 2025-05-28