About Urban-H Health & Initiatives
The health of people in urban areas is closely tied to the environments in which they live, including housing and both indoor and outdoor temperatures. Physical surroundings and households’ ability to afford stable, decent housing and utilities have been demonstrated to affect both mental and physical health. As the cost of living rises in urban areas, the choices cities make regarding neighborhoods, housing, and other social supports have significant implications for the health of residents, especially those most at risk due to factors such as income, age, race, ethnicity, health conditions, or immigration status. Moreover, in the wake of the COVID pandemic, we have experienced a dramatic increase in mental health concerns related to disruptions in relationships and institutions, and as a result of the trauma of isolation, particularly among children and youth. Cities are at the forefront of confronting these challenges.
The Urban Health agenda aims to approach these intertwined issues holistically by exploring novel collaborations with communities, policymakers, and researchers to test and share solutions to advance the health of all people in urban areas.