In recent decades, most developing countries have experienced an unprecedented growth in their urban populations, yet little has been done to provide the homes and neighbourhoods where these growing populations live with the services and amenities essential for a healthy life: piped water, facilities for the removal of household and human waste, storm and surface water drainage, all weather access roads, and health care and emergency lifesaving services. This book explores present trends in urbanization, the effects of these trends on the physical and social environment, and the impact of this environment on child health. It aims to increase awareness of the severe and pervasive impact on health, the deteriorating environmental conditions produced by too rapid urbanisation, and to promote widespread consideration of policies and actions that could improve the situation.
The book explores some of the health hazards of poverty, problems confronting the urban poor, the question of how and why neighbourhood organisations are formed, and the role of local government. Chapter 5, which deals with the summary and recommendations, discusses the targeting of services and support of those most in need, the co-ordination of action, the key role of local government, the role of non-government organisations, the role of national government and aid agencies.