Healthy city

A Healthy City is a concept that integrates public health considerations and urban design. This approach underscores the profound influence of local policy-making on human health. Rooted in a rich history that goes back to the mid-19th century, the modern interpretation of the term largely stems from an initiative by the World Health Organization (WHO) that began in 1986. While the term initially developed in collaboration with the European Union, its influence quickly spread on a global scale, aiming to instill health-forward policies at the local governance level.

History

The idea of a Healthy City is not a novel concept. It has historical roots dating back to the mid 19th century. However, it was in 1986 that the term took on a renewed significance when the World Health Organization (WHO) embarked on the "Healthy Cities and Villages" initiative. This project was a collaborative endeavor with the European Union, aiming to center health considerations in urban planning and policy-making.

Principles

The Healthy City concept is anchored in several key principles that underscore the breadth and depth of health:

• Multi-dimensionality of Health: As highlighted in the WHO's constitution, health isn't a singular dimension but rather an intricate web of physical, mental, and social well-being facets.
• Health Promotion: Based on the Ottawa Charter for Health Promotion, the approach emphasizes the proactive promotion of health and wellness rather than mere disease prevention.
• Local Policy Impact: By stressing the relationship between local policies and public health, the initiative encourages municipalities to craft policies that foster a healthier population.

Alternative Terms

While "Healthy City" has gained traction as a recognizable term, there are alternative terminologies that convey a similar philosophy:

• Healthy Communities: Often used interchangeably with Healthy City, this term emphasizes a broader perspective that extends beyond urban centers to encompass more rural communities.
• Municipios saludables: Adopted in various regions of Latin America, this term translates to "healthy municipalities," again emphasizing the role of local governance in promoting public health.

Relationship with Urban Design

Urban design plays a pivotal role in the actualization of a Healthy City. It involves crafting urban spaces that are conducive to physical activity, ensuring accessibility to health services, and promoting environments that are free from pollutants and hazards.

See Also

• Public Health
• Urban Planning
• World Health Organization
• Ottawa Charter for Health Promotion

External Links

• WHO Healthy Cities

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