Urban Public Health Research Articles

The urban heat island (UHI) phenomenon presents pressing challenges for urban sustainability, intersecting urban planning, building design, public health and climate adaptation and mitigation policy. While UHI science has advanced, its knowledge and practice translation into real-life practice remains limited. This paper investigates the processes of how UHI knowledge can support the transition from diagnosing urban climate risks to shaping more thermally resilient cities. It begins by outlining the interdisciplinary significance of urban heat governance and highlights the persistent gap between scientific understanding and actionable outcomes by drawing from five global contexts-Japan, Germany, the United States, Hong Kong and Singapore. The paper explores how scientific insights are integrated into planning instruments, design regulations and environmental performance frameworks. Using an implementation science perspective, the paper examines four key themes: (i) barriers and enablers of science-policy integration, (ii) knowledge co-production, (iii) boundary objects and interfaces, and (iv) policy diffusion across cities. Findings emphasize the importance of institutional coordination, iterative co-production and simple and user-friendly tools for planners. The paper concludes by proposing a forward-looking research agenda focused on integrated modelling, climate-resilient design and community-driven approaches, contributing to a growing discourse on reorienting urban climatology towards practice for more equitable and sustainable cities.This article is part of the theme issue 'Urban heat spreading above and below ground'.

Outdoor thermal comfort is a critical determinant of urban livability and public health, particularly in the face of the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. While meteorological variables are well-established drivers of thermal stress, the influence of ambient air pollution on human thermal perception remains poorly understood and largely overlooked in urban climate research. To address this gap, this study investigates the multidimensional effects of six major air pollutants PM2.5, PM10, SO2, NO2, O3, and CO on the Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI) across 370 Chinese cities from 2020 to 2024. Using integrated spatiotemporal analysis, we found significant seasonal, diurnal, and climatic heterogeneity in pollutant–UTCI interactions. Our findings reveal that O3 and PM10 amplify thermal stress during summer daytime through photochemical heating and radiative forcing, whereas PM2.5 and CO reduce nocturnal heat loss in winter by trapping long-wave radiation, effectively acting as thermal insulators. These effects are further modulated by local climate: arid regions (e.g., Lanzhou) experience exacerbated O3-driven heat stress, while cold zones (e.g., Harbin) benefit from particulate-induced warming in winter. Meteorological factors serve as dual regulators; temperature and solar radiation directly elevate the UTCI, while wind and humidity govern pollutant dispersion and thus indirectly shape thermal comfort. This study not only advances the scientific understanding of air pollution’s role in urban thermal environments but also provides actionable, data-driven insights for climate-resilient urban planning, public health interventions, and integrated environmental policies that jointly address air quality and thermal comfort in rapidly urbanizing regions.

Air pollution has become one of the most pressing environmental challenges affecting public health, urban ecosystems, and climate stability. Vegetation plays a crucial role in mitigating air pollution through various biophysical and biochemical processes, yet its effectiveness depends on multiple contextual factors. This literature survey aims to analyze and synthesize existing research on the role of vegetation in improving air quality, focusing on the mechanisms involved and the determinants that influence its performance across different environments. The study employs a systematic literature review approach, drawing from peer-reviewed journal articles, conference proceedings, and government reports published in the last two decades. The analysis highlights key mechanisms such as pollutant absorption through leaf surfaces, particulate matter deposition, and microclimate regulation that contribute to air purification. The findings also reveal that vegetation effectiveness is shaped by species characteristics, plant density, urban morphology, climatic conditions, and maintenance practices. The study concludes that strategic vegetation planning can significantly reduce urban air pollutants and enhance environmental health. These insights hold important implications for urban planners, environmental policymakers, and public health authorities in designing green infrastructure and sustainable urban landscapes. Further empirical research is recommended to quantify vegetation’s differential impact under varying ecological and socio-economic settings.

BackgroundAs the digital economy expands rapidly in modern cities, its influence on both urban growth and public health is increasingly significant. However, the concurrent rise of light pollution—now recognized as the fifth major source of environmental pollution—presents critical challenges, particularly to human health. Among the most vulnerable populations are seniors, whose cognitive function may be adversely affected by heightened nighttime lighting. On the one hand, the development of the digital economy can promote local medical and public health initiatives. On the other hand, cities with more developed digital economies often experience stronger night time lighting.MethodsThis study investigates the dual impact of light pollution and digital economy growth on the cognitive health of seniors in China, leveraging data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Survey (CHARLS) from 2013 to 2018, conducting a comprehensive analysis combining micro and macro data. By developing an enhanced digital economy index and employing grey relational analysis and serial multiple mediation models, this research explores the mechanisms through which both phenomena influence cognitive abilities in the elderly. Additionally, coupling coordination analysis and GIS technology are utilized to assess the spatial interactions and development dynamics across various prefecture-level cities.ResultsFindings reveal that the digital economy significantly improves cognitive functions by enhancing urban infrastructure and public health services. However, this growth simultaneously exacerbates light pollution through increased nighttime lighting, which undermines these positive effects. Additionally, the impact of light pollution on cognitive functions exhibits significant heterogeneity across cities with different levels of urbanization. Highly developed cities demonstrate poorer coordination between digital economic growth and light pollution management. This suggests that the pursuit of economic prosperity in these regions often overshadows effective environmental health measures.ConclusionsThis study highlights the critical need for balanced and sustainable urban development strategies that leverage the benefits of the digital economy while mitigating the adverse effects of light pollution. Urban planners should incorporate light pollution management into broader urban development plans to ensure that economic advancements do not compromise environmental and public health, thereby supporting the sustainable development of livable cities.

BackgroundThe rapid urbanization and demographic shifts experienced globally have significant implications for the well-being of older adults, particularly in low and middle income countries like Nigeria. As individuals age, understanding the impact of environmental characteristics on mobility and mental well-being becomes crucial for optimal health. Walkable neighborhoods have the potential to enhance mobility, social engagement, and well-being among older adults. This study explored the neighborhood characteristics and its relationship with mobility and mental well-being of older adults in Nigeria. It also identified the policy implications of the findings for urban planning and public health interventions.MethodsThis cross-sectional study involved 162 older adults residing in Enugu urban area between August 2023 and April 2024. The Neighborhood Environment Walkability Scale, Life Space Questionnaire and Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale assessed the neighborhood characteristics, mobility and mental well-being respectively. Correlation and multiple regression analysis were employed.ResultsSignificant relationships were observed between mobility and residential density (r= -0.223, p = 0.004), connectivity (r = 0.266, p = 0.001) aesthetics (r = 0.212, p = 0.007), and safety from traffic (r = 0.214, p = 0.006). The regression analysis with mobility as the dependent variable showed a good model fit and was significant [F = 7.389, p < 0.001, adjusted R2 = 0.28, R2 = 0.33]. The predictors/independent variables in the model accounted for 33% of the variance in mobility. Durbin Watson’s score was 2.066 indicating independence of observations in the model. Variance Inflation factor values were less than 10 while Tolerance values were greater than 0.20 indicating no multicollinearity in the model. Key predictors of mobility were residential density, land use mix, connectivity, aesthetics, safety from traffic, environmental description and child safety. The stepwise regression identified five significant predictors: connectivity, residential density, aesthetics, child safety, and traffic safety. These explained 27.5% of the variance in mobility scores (R² = 0.275, p < 0.001). While explaining slightly less variance than the full model, it offered a more interpretable structure. Interestingly, there was no significant relationship between neighborhood characteristics and mental well-being (p > 0.05), and none of these characteristics emerged as significant predictors of mental well-being.ConclusionsUrban planners, policymakers, and healthcare professionals should collaborate to create age-friendly environments that prioritize mobility and well-being for older adults. The insights from this study can inform policy recommendations and guidelines aimed at enhancing the overall quality of life for older adults, reducing the incidence of isolation, anxiety, and depression, and promoting healthier, more vibrant communities.Clinical trial numberNot applicable.

Atmospheric particulate matter (PM) pollution has escalated into a critical threat to urban public health and safety. Among urban functional zones, commercial districts—characterized by high human exposure—are simultaneously hotspots of pollutant accumulation. Consequently, PM mitigation in these areas has become an urgent challenge for sustainable urbanization. This study used Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to simulate the diffusion process and vertical concentration distribution of particulate matter in commercial districts. The results showed that the concentration of PM2.5 decreased with increasing height, with the highest concentration in the respiratory zone (1.5 m) and basic diffusion above 50 m; There are significant differences in the concentration changes of pollutants under different combinations of architectural spaces. By establishing a 20 m block wind corridor, changing the relationship between the building and the street enclosure, and adjusting the form of the building podium and overhead design with building height multiples (6–12 m), strategies can effectively alleviate the accumulation of particulate matter in commercial blocks. These findings provide quantitative evidence for evidence-based retrofitting strategies aimed at reducing PM2.5 exposure in high-density commercial areas.

BackgroundThe urban environment is an important determinant of frailty, primarily through factors such as infrastructure that supports physical activity, availability of social and medical support, and access to nutritious food. Given the increasing aging population, understanding the link between urban quality, frailty, and metabolic health is crucial for effective public health and urban planning interventions.ObjectiveThis study aims to quantify the impact of distinct urban domains (built-environment characteristics, accessibility to essential services, availability of green and recreational spaces, and neighborhood socioeconomic context) on frailty status, nutritional profile, and hematological or biochemical biomarkers in community-dwelling older adults by integrating geospatial analysis.MethodsA cohort of 251 older adults (aged older than 65 years) was studied. Frailty was assessed using the Frailty Trait Scale 5, and nutritional status was determined using the Controlling Nutritional Status score. Hematological and biochemical parameters were evaluated in a subset of 70 participants by MINDRAY automatic equipment. A spatial analysis of frailty was conducted by incorporating Geographic Information System layers that mapped the distribution of urban facilities, including fruit and vegetable shops, senior centers, pharmacies, emergency health centers, parks and squares, community centers, and exercise facilities. Statistical analyses included t tests, Mann-Whitney U test, ANOVA, and correlation analyses.ResultsThe prevalence of frailty was 17.5%. Frail individuals exhibited significantly higher BMI (mean 31.5, SD 4.4 vs mean 28.5, SD 4.5 kg/m²; P=.0001). When comparing the upper (Q4) and lower (Q1) quartiles of urban quality, Q4 participants had higher Frailty Trait Scale 5 scores (mean 15.2, SD 7.4 vs mean 11.8, SD 6.4; P=.0334) and lower handgrip strength (mean 19.1, SD 4.4 vs mean 22.8, SD 7.3 kg; P=.006). Frail individuals resided significantly closer to emergency health centers (P=.0010), family health centers (P=.0412), and exercise facilities (P=.0322). In addition, bilirubin (Spearman ρ=0.33; P=.0049), serum iron (Spearman ρ=0.27; P=.0272), transferrin saturation (Spearman ρ=0.24; P=.0386), red blood cell count (Spearman ρ=0.26; P=.0303), and red blood cell distribution width (Spearman ρ=0.23; P=.0462) were positively correlated with urban quality. Frail participants also had higher Controlling Nutritional Status scores (P=.0323), which were positively correlated with urban quality (Spearman ρ=0.25; P=.0359).ConclusionsUrban quality was significantly associated with hematological parameters, nutritional status, and frailty. Frail individuals in areas with better urban quality exhibit lower handgrip strength, higher frailty scores, and greater proximity to emergency rooms, community health centers, and exercise facilities. This spatial distribution may reflect higher accessibility to health care and recreational resources among frail participants. Urban planning and public health strategies should focus on creating age-friendly environments to prevent frailty and improve health outcomes.

Playgrounds serve as the primary play areas in metropolitan areas for children - a demographic that is particularly vulnerable to environmental contaminants. Accumulation levels, spatial distribution, sources, and potential health risks to children of Potentially Toxic Elements (PTEs) in soils from 97 Moscow playgrounds were studied. Concentrations of 17 PTEs (Be, V, Cr, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Rb, Sr, Mo, Cd, Sb, Ba, W, Pb, Bi) in bulk soil samples and PM1/PM10 fractions were determined using ICP-MS and ICP-AES. Most PTEs exceeded regional background levels. Compared to bulk samples, PTE concentrations in PM10 were increasedby factors of 1.3 - 6.0. Highest accumulation of Sb, Pb, Zn, Cu, As, Cd occurred near industrial zones. Analysis of PM1 in the most contaminated soil samples revealed further enrichmentwith PTEs, particularly in enclosed courtyards. Positive Matrix Factorization identified five main sources: lithogenic (32.6%), construction and demolition debris (22.0%), traffic emissions (16.5%), machinery and metalworking (14.1%), and multi-facility industrial sources (14.6%). The non-carcinogenic hazard index (HI) for children was generally low (mean HI = 0.75), reaching moderate levels (HI = 1.0 - 10) in 13% of samples. The total carcinogenic risk (TCR) was at a moderate level (mean TCR = 6.1 × 10-5); 8% of samples near major highways and redeveloped industrial zones exceeded TCR = 1 × 10-4. Arsenic (As), mainly from construction and demolition sources, contributed 90% of the total TCR. This study provides critical evidence for urban planners and public health officials, highlighting the necessity of revising playground placement regulations and implementing targeted pollution control measures, especially during the redevelopment of industrial areas, to mitigate children's health risks.

Air pollution, driven by seasonal and meteorological variations, poses a significant threat to public health and urban sustainability. Despite numerous forecasting approaches, the influence of seasonal patterns on air pollutant levels remains underexplored. This study presents a computational framework utilizing the Nonlinear Autoregressive network with Exogenous inputs (NARX) model to predict concentrations of key pollutants SO₂, PM₁₀, NO, NOX, and O₃ in Esenyurt, one of the most industrialized districts in Istanbul, Turkey. Through systematic feature selection techniques, the study determines the most influential seasonal factors for each pollutant, reducing model complexity while improving predictive accuracy. The developed framework exhibits substantial improvements in predictive performance, with the optimal models achieving high determination coefficients (up to R² = 0.965 for O₃) and low error metrics across training and validation datasets. Particularly, the inclusion of seasonal variables considerably improved prediction accuracy for NO, NO₂, and PM₁₀, while SO₂ predictions performed best when utilizing comprehensive seasonal indicators. These results demonstrate that seasonal dynamics play a crucial role in governing pollutant behavior and highlight the importance of incorporating such variables in forecasting models. This research contributes significantly to the field by advancing methodological approaches in air quality prediction while providing an adaptable model for policymakers and environmental agencies to implement in proactive pollution management strategies. Through examination of seasonal dependencies in air pollutant patterns, the study delivers a practical tool for urban planning and public health applications in rapidly expanding metropolitan regions.

BackgroundThe Vital Capacity Weight Index (VCWI) serves as a pivotal indicator of cardiopulmonary function among children and adolescents, reflecting their tissue oxygenation capacity and athletic potential. This study delves into the influence of environmental greenness and physical activity on VCWI in children residing in China’s economically prosperous provinces, who are exposed to air pollutants, namely PM2.5 and O3.MethodsWe performed a cross-sectional analysis using data from the 2019 Chinese National Survey on Students’ Constitution and Health (CNSSCH), involving 62,987 students from the top eight provinces by GDP. Exposure to PM2.5 and O3 was estimated using data from the Tracking Air Pollution in China (TAP) platform. Greenness surrounding schools was assessed based on the China Land Cover Dataset (CLCD). Daily physical activity duration was used to classify participants into moderate or vigorous activity groups. Associations with VCWI were examined using univariate and multivariate logistic regression models. Interaction effects between air pollution and greenness or physical activity were assessed using additive models.ResultsHigher concentrations of PM2.5 and O3 were significantly associated with lower VCWI. In contrast, greater greenness coverage and engagement in vigorous physical activity were linked to better VCWI outcomes. Interaction analysis showed that increased greenness may enhance the protective effect of lower air pollution levels on VCWI, while the interaction between physical activity and air pollution was not statistically significant.ConclusionsThese findings highlight the potential of green environments and active lifestyles in buffering the negative respiratory effects of air pollution among children. The results provide evidence to inform integrated urban planning and public health initiatives aimed at improving children’s lung health.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-025-24439-9.

Urban green spaces are essential for promoting human health and well-being, especially in cities facing increasing noise pollution and ecological stress. This study investigates the effects of audio-visual interaction on restorative outcomes across three soundscape types (park, residential, and street), focusing on the compensatory role of positive visual stimuli in low-quality soundscape environments. Thirty-two university students participated in a controlled evaluation using soundscapes and corresponding visual materials derived from 30 urban green spaces. A two-way repeated measures ANOVA revealed significant main effects of soundscape type and modality (auditory vs. audio-visual), as well as a significant interaction between these factors. Audio-visual conditions consistently outperformed auditory conditions, with the strongest restorative effects observed in noisy street soundscapes when paired with positive visual stimuli. Further analysis highlighted that visual cleanliness and structural clarity significantly enhanced restorative outcomes in challenging environments. These findings align with existing theories of sensory integration and extend their application to large-scale urban settings. This study shows that multi-sensory optimization can mitigate urban environmental stressors, supporting healthier, more resilient, and sustainable urban environments. Future research should explore long-term and cross-cultural applications to inform evidence-based urban planning and public health policies.

This study analyzes more than a century of hourly meteorological data (1901–2024) from the Thissio station in central Athens, Greece, to assess the long-term changes in human thermal discomfort. Three simple and widely used bioclimatic indices, Thom’s Discomfort Index (TDI), Humidex (HMDX), and Heat Index (HI), were calculated to capture the combined effects of air temperature and humidity. The results show a marked increase in the frequency, intensity, and duration of thermal discomfort since the 1980s, with a strong acceleration after 2000. The number of days with severe or dangerous heat stress has more than doubled compared with the mid-20th century, and periods of high discomfort now extend from June to September. The maximum values of HMDX and HI have exceeded critical health thresholds, highlighting increasing risks for the urban population. These findings demonstrate how rising temperature and humidity amplify heat stress in a Mediterranean city and emphasize the need for adaptation strategies in urban planning and public health to reduce vulnerability to extreme heat.

Abstract Urban blue spaces are increasingly recognised as important determinants of mental health. This empirical study investigates the mental health benefits of blue space exposure in Shkodra, Albania. Data from 534 respondents were collected through the Albanian Urban Blue Spaces (AUBS) Survey. A moderated mediation analysis was conducted to test whether physical activity and sleep quality mediate the relationship between blue space exposure and psychological distress and whether life satisfaction, lifestyle habits and demographic factors moderate these pathways. Results indicate that blue space exposure directly improves mental health, while physical activity and sleep quality do not serve as mediators. The relationship was significantly moderated by life satisfaction, lifestyle habits and education. Better health outcomes occurred when individuals reported approximately 110 min of blue space exposure, combined with healthier lifestyle behaviours and higher education levels. The findings highlight the role of blue spaces in urban planning and public health policy.

Abstract Issue/Description Partnerships between academic institutions and public health practice are instrumental in addressing public health, particularly health in cities, but often difficult to achieve. Despite commitments to urban health, academic institutions often mired in research and teaching and lack grounding in PH practice, while public health organizations and local health departments are forced to focus on the day-to-day practice of public health and less able to invest time and human resources to longer-term public health solutions. Results In 2019, the Dornsife School of Public Health (DSPH), through its Urban Health Collaborative (UHC), established a strategic partnership with the Big Cities Health Coalition (BCHC), the forum for the leaders of America's largest metropolitan health departments who collectively serve one in 5 Americans. This partnership supports the Coalition's vision of healthy, more equitable cities through big city innovation and leadership. For the UHC, the partnership is an opportunity to advance its commitment to urban health research, training, and policy translation locally and globally. The UHC and BCHC have partnered on variety of projects funded by both the BCHC and their partnering organizations, providing a replicable framework for partnership between academia and public health practice. Projects include the Big Cities Data Inventory (BCHI), an equity focused cross-city data platform providing a baseline of health in urban communities, health-equity based program and policy evaluations, advocacy on key US public health policy issues, and a recent focus on cross-city climate work focused on data, research and practice. Lessons The UHC/BCHC partnership is a replicable model of collaboration between academia and public health practice, leveraging the expertise and lived experience of local health departments with the technical expertise of academia to improve public health. Key messages • Urban public health practice benefits from urban health research and policy frameworks. • Academic public health is strengthened by the real-world practice of public health.

Assessing 3-D variability of ultrafine particle using a Geo-AI modelling approach: A case study in Zhunan-Miaoli, Taiwan.

Development of a decomposition-optimization-transformer hybrid model for spatiotemporal forecasting of PM2.5 air pollution in Chinese cities: A case study.

Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) in park and playground soils: A comparative health risk assessment in two South Asian cities of Brahmaputra Valley, India.

Urban soil health improves with green infrastructure and reduced pathogen risks.

Background: Walkability is a cornerstone of healthy and sustainable cities, yet research often emphasizes infrastructure while overlooking aesthetic and cultural features such as public art. These built environment components may not be equitably distributed across neighborhoods, raising concerns about disparities in access to health-promoting spaces. Objective: This study examines whether sidewalks, recreational open spaces, pedestrian ramps, community gardens, and public art landmarks are equitably distributed across neighborhoods with differing levels of social vulnerability in Cambridge, Massachusetts (MA). Methods: Using 2020 U.S. Census block groups as the unit of analysis, we integrated multiple geospatial datasets, including sidewalk polygons, recreational open spaces, pedestrian ramps, community gardens, and public art landmarks, and the overall Social Vulnerability Index (SVI). In QGIS, we calculated sidewalk coverage as the percentage of block group land area occupied by sidewalks, computed the total acreage of recreational open spaces, and counted the number of pedestrian ramps, community gardens, and public art landmarks per block group. These metrics were merged with SVI data. Statistical analyses in R Studio included descriptive comparisons, correlations, and regression models to test whether higher vulnerability was associated with lower walkability level, and fewer recreational and aesthetic amenities. Results: Across 87 block groups in Cambridge, MA, regression analyses showed that higher social vulnerability was positively associated with sidewalk coverage (β = 0.24, p = 0.04), indicating that more vulnerable neighborhoods had greater sidewalk presence. Conversely, social vulnerability was negatively but not significantly associated with open space acreage (β = –24.76, p = 0.087) and with pedestrian ramps (IRR = 0.62, p = 0.071). Community gardens and public art landmarks showed no significant associations with social vulnerability. Conclusions: This study highlights the importance of considering both infrastructure and cultural features in equity-oriented walkability research. Findings can inform urban planning and public health strategies to reduce disparities in access to safe, walkable, and aesthetically enriched environments.

This study evaluated the antifungal efficacy of a non-thermal plasma (NTP) jet against environmental isolates of Cryptococcus neoformans, a pathogenic fungus commonly found in pigeon droppings and associated with serious infections in immunocompromised individuals. Given the increasing concern over environmental fungal contamination and drug-resistant strains, this research aimed to identify optimized plasma conditions for effective fungal inactivation without relying on chemical disinfectants. Environmental C. neoformans isolates were cultured on Sabouraud dextrose agar and subjected to NTP treatment under systematically varied parameters: input power (30, 50, and 70 W), exposure time (30 s, 1, 2, and 3 min), and air flow rates (1, 1.5, and 2 LPM) mixed with a constant 12 LPM argon gas. Following treatment, plates were incubated at 37°C for 24 hours, and antifungal activity was assessed by measuring the inhibition zone. The highest antifungal effect was achieved at 70 W, with a 3-minute exposure and Ar:Air flow ratio of 12:2 LPM, producing a clear zone of 0.93 ± 0.05 cm². This value corresponded to 28.6% of the inhibition zone produced by the Amphotericin B positive control (3.25 ± 0.08 cm²). All treatment conditions exhibited statistically significant inhibition (p < 0.05), with increased efficacy at higher airflow and longer exposure durations. The generation of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) is believed to be the primary mechanism underlying fungal inactivation. These findings demonstrate that Argon-Air-based NTP jet systems offer a promising, eco-friendly, and non-chemical approach for controlling fungal pathogens in environmental settings. The method has potential for application in urban sanitation and public health contexts where fungal contamination from bird droppings poses ongoing risks.