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
Getting WASH into Health Care Facilities: An Urgent Global Health Need
Will the UN’s prioritization of clean water, sanitation and hand washing in health care facilities finally breed action?
The Lost Cities and Towns of Asia and Africa
A global definition of cities means better understanding of local urban health
Pandemic, a Game Gone Viral
An interview with Matt Leacock, creator of the popular 10-year-old board game, on the art of designing cooperative play
Latest
Coronavirus in East Africa
Disease-induced divisions and challenges to regional blocs are set to deepen in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic
Africa and Coronavirus—Will Lockdowns Work?
Here's why countries in Africa should chart their own paths in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic—and two ways they can
Bridging the Digital Divide in COVID-19
Global pandemic should catalyze long-term solutions to increase internet access inside more homes for social resilience