Health Literacy: A Key Attribute for Urban Settings

Background

The good health of all its citizens is one of the most effective indicators of any city’s sustainable development. According to the World Health Organization, healthy cities are environmentally sustainable and resilient. Cities with clean air, energy-efficient infrastructure, and widely accessible green spaces can attract more investment and businesses, create more jobs, and offer more opportunity to people from all walks of life. Healthy cities are socially inclusive being places where planning and policy-making can incorporate the views, voices, and needs of all communities. Health is not only an indicator for monitoring progress but a fundamental driver of sustainable development (World Health Organization, 2016b). Where people live affects their health and chances of leading flourishing lives. Hence, communities and neighborhoods that ensure access to basic goods, that are socially cohesive, that are designed to promote good physical and psychological wellbeing, and that are protective of the natural environment are essential for health equity (Marmot, Friel, Bell, Houweling, & Taylor, 2008).