PAHO Member States studied a strategy and plan of action to respond to the health needs of the residents of large urban areas, which currently represent some 80 percent of the Region’s population.

The strategy and plan of action address such issues as air and noise pollution, environmental change, health-promoting behaviors such as increased physical activity and healthy nutrition, human security and violence, and inclusive urbanization, among others.

The effects of unplanned urbanization and construction on human health will require multisectoral actions to provide an adequate response, according to the PAHO report.