Transportation decisions affect our lives. People use bicycle paths, highways, etc. daily to get to school, work, and countless other places.
Indeed, poor transport can affect the health of everyone. For example, if a road was frequently used, and a community was located next to that road, the nearby residents and drivers would both be at a health risk. Air and noise pollution from all vehicles would trouble the residents. This long-time exposure to air pollution could be life-threatening, with respiratory conditions such as asthma, wheezing, decreased lung functioning, and also cardiovascular disease. Furthermore, the traffic on that road would affect the health of the drivers. Studies show that one hour plus on a road can contribute to the obesity that one gains. Additionally, heavy traffic can affect the mental health of people.
Poor transport may also be a problem for access to healthcare immediately. Research has shown that inadequate transportation can increase the risk of missed healthcare appointments and worse health outcomes. Furthermore, social isolation and resulting mental illnesses may be a problem for those who cannot drive.
Globally, public health organizations may work with transportation agencies to address these problems. As a result, health impact assessments of transport in different areas and healthy and equitable solutions are arising. For example, bike paths would be of interest to both public health professionals and transportation organizations. However, they may view the issue differently. Public health professionals may view the need for pedestrian and bicycle paths in regards to improving physical activeness and healthy lifestyle choices to prevent illnesses, such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and metabolic syndrome. On the other hand, transportation agencies may view the need for the above as a general part of their job. Ultimately, health is increasingly being considered a factor in transportation policies.
Sources
https://www.healthaffairs.org/do/10.1377/hpb20210630.810356/full/
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