From: Obesity, physical activity, and the urban environment: public health research needs
Type of issues | Representative risk factors | Potential pathways of effect |
---|---|---|
Land use issues | Â | Â |
 | Business and job loss | Lengthens commutes, reduces walking |
 | Proximity of toxic facilities | Pollution may discourage outdoor activities |
 | Lack of supermarkets | May be more difficult to access healthy diets |
 | Abandoned buildings | Reduces density, increases crime |
 | Vacant lots | Increases crime, discourages walking |
Infrastructure, maintenance and service issues | Â | Â |
 | Sidewalks and street trees | Lack of pedestrian amenities discourages walking |
 | Lighting | Fear of crime keeps people indoors |
 | Transit projects | Lack of transit makes people more dependent on driving |
Social environment issues | Â | Â |
 | Poverty and income inequality | Poor areas suffer from disinvestment |
 | Racial segregation | May promote "redlining", the denial of loans to certain communities |
 | Crime | Unsafe areas may result in less physical activity, lower overall health status |