Health in Megacities and Urban Areas

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Diverse driving forces and actors shape the development of megacities and large urban areas. As global change unfolds, these megacities face increasing socio-economic vulnerability, marked by poverty, fragmentation, and conflicts. However, they also possess the potential for positive transformation, such as minimizing space consumption and enhancing resource efficiency, provided effective strategies are implemented. Currently, many megacities in developing regions and emerging economies are experiencing a decline in quality of life. Rapid urbanization has outpaced the growth of necessary infrastructure and services, leaving many residents without access to basic necessities like clean water and safe food. This situation exacerbates social inequalities, leading to significant intra-urban health disparities that can incite conflict among different subpopulations. Our book adopts a multi- and interdisciplinary approach to the intricate issues surrounding megacities and urban health, emphasizing the need for collaboration among various disciplines. We aim to enhance readers' understanding of the complex dynamics of urban populations through the lenses of public health, geography, and other research perspectives.