Urbanization
More than half the world's population now resides in cities. Urbanization in low-income countries could offer billions of people better access to jobs and health-care services and a gateway to the world economy. To reap those benefits, those nations will have to confront the looming health and environmental challenges of urban life. This section examines the ways in which health and infectious diseases shape urbanization, but also the ways in which cities will define the future of global health.
Urbanization
55%
World’s population residing in urban areas in 2018
World’s population residing in urban areas in 2018
90%
Of future urban growth will be in Africa and Asia
Contribution of Africa and Asia to future global urban growth
2.0 B
Projected number of people living in slums by 2030
Projected number of people living in slums by 2030
Featured
Where the Sidewalk Ends
The implications of COVID-19 for urban health
Bridging Health Gaps With Inclusive Urbanization
To tackle health disparities, the global health community must promote inclusive urbanization
Plague Ships, Shotgun Mobs, and the "Saffron Scourge"
Recalling the massive, deadly New Orleans yellow fever epidemic of 1878—and what lessons it holds for coronavirus today
The Africa We Want: Protecting Health and Livelihood
Deepening economic integration to boost intra-African trade requires an equal investment in public health structures
Bridging Health Gaps With Inclusive Urbanization
To tackle health disparities, the global health community must promote inclusive urbanization
Plague Ships, Shotgun Mobs, and the "Saffron Scourge"
Recalling the massive, deadly New Orleans yellow fever epidemic of 1878—and what lessons it holds for coronavirus today