URBANIZATION AND HEALTH

Authors

  • Gheorghe Teleaga National Public Health Agency, Chișinău, Republic of Moldova

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.4174848

Keywords:

urbanization, risk factors, health status

Abstract

Objectives. Urbanization is a continuous and multidimensional process, often associated with industrialization, modernization and development, which inevitably influences the health of the population. The emphasis on this process is directly proportional to the degree of influence of different risk factors that define urbanization and assessment of the health of the population.

Material and methods. In this paper, we analyzed urbanization as a development process, the particuliarities of this process in different regions and countries, including the Republic of Moldova.

Results. The role of the authorities and the efficiency of their actions in leading this process were appreciated, with the identification of the benefits and negative influences of urbanization on life and health. The risk factors conditioned by the urbanization process were highlighted and their degree of influence on human health was identified, with the establishment of priorities and actions necessary to improve the living environment of the population.

Conclusions. The sustainable development of urban structures is, for the future of humanity, a priority as important as economic and social issues. The rapid expansion of urban spaces, their impressive sanitation deficits, very strong "motorization" with obvious negative effects on urban air pollution, are phenomena that characterize, lately, both cities in highly industrialized and developing countries. But, despite all the negative effects, the primary task of the authorities is to act as effectively as possible, to remove some of these negative effects permanently or, at least, reduce them, to create a healthy living environment for all.

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Published

01-11-2020

Issue

Section

REVIEW ARTICLES