Are cities creating or attracting healthy individuals? Causality and selection in urban health

This programme investigates the impact of urban and rural environments on residents’ health. While urban residents are generally healthier than their rural counterparts, health gaps within cities suggest a complex relationship between urban living and health. The research focuses on whether specific urban features directly improve health or merely attract healthier residents.

The research aims to identify causal relationships. This involves discerning whether healthier urban residents are a result of positive environmental factors or self-selection of healthier individuals into these areas. For instance, is the presence of a park in a neighbourhood conducive for health, or does it attract already healthier people?

Utilizing comprehensive Swedish data on health indicators and behaviours, residence, and neighbourhood characteristics, the research will provide novel insights regarding the determinants of spatial health inequalities. The project includes creating a Swedish health atlas, examining if cities create or attract healthy citizens, and analysing the health consequences of urban growth.

The relevance of this research is heightened by massive urban infrastructure investments and political focus on reducing urban-rural inequalities. The findings are expected to guide the development of healthier cities and rural areas, and contributing to several UN development goals, including promoting well-being, reducing inequalities, and ensuring inclusive, and safe living environments.