HEALTH POLICIES, PRACTICES, AND SERVICES IN URBAN SETTINGS

4. Infectious Diseases

2. Infectious Diseases:

Urban areas experience the rapid spread of infectious diseases due to dense populations, poor sanitation, and unregulated health practices. Tuberculosis (TB), malaria, and HIV/AIDS continue to affect a large proportion of the urban population.

HIV/AIDS remains a significant public health issue in urban centers due to high rates of sexual activity and drug use. Programs aimed at HIV prevention, including condom distribution, education, and ART access, are crucial in urban settings.

3. Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs):

Urbanization has led to an increase in lifestyle-related diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and cancer. These diseases are linked to factors such as sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy diets, and stress.

Healthcare facilities in urban areas are often not equipped to handle the growing burden of NCDs, and screening and early detection services are limited.