Urbanization and Its Influence on Public Health in Southeast Asia

Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the urbanization and its influence on public health in Southeast Asia. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: Urbanization in Southeast Asia significantly impacts public health through strained healthcare infrastructure, environmental health risks like pollution and inadequate sanitation, and increased prevalence of non-communicable diseases due to urban lifestyles. Infectious disease transmission is amplified in densely populated urban areas, exacerbated by social determinants of health disparities. Effective urban health policies and integrated planning are essential to mitigate these challenges, promoting sustainable development and equitable healthcare access across the region. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Urbanization theory, social determinants of health theory & ecological systems theory may be used to anchor future studies on urbanization and its influence on public health in Southeast Asia. Initiatives should focus on promoting healthy urban environments through sustainable urban planning and design strategies. Policymakers should prioritize the integration of health considerations into urban planning policies and initiatives.