Ebenezer Oduro Antiri, Hilary Konadu Awuah, Promise Salu, John Adoripore, Anthony Edward Boakye, Edward Wilson Ansah
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Sub-Saharan Africa's (SSA) rapid urbanization and climate change have resulted in habitat loss, deforestation, and reduction in urban green spaces. Urban greenness is vital for biodiversity, public health, and climate resilience. Urban green spaces have several health advantages, including lowering urban heat stress and enhancing mental and physical well-being of the population. However, little is known about the accessibility, use, and effects of urban greenness on population health in the region. This scoping review maps the evidence on urban green space availability, utilization, and population health impacts in SSA. The review also identifies the barriers and facilitators that strengthen and contribute to sustainability and urban health. In accordance with the JBI scoping review framework and PRISMA-ScR criteria, this study screened 10,683 records from major databases, grey literature, and reference checks. Initial title and abstract screening produced 118 records for full-text screening, from which 72 records were incorporated into the final analysis, which mapped the evidence using thematic analysis and narrative synthesis. It was found that urban green spaces in SSA are characterized by significant disparities in availability and accessibility, with such areas frequently falling short of international standards. Poor maintenance, corruption, safety issues, and socioeconomic disparities are factors that limit urban green space utilization, while proximity facilitates usage. Stress reduction, increased physical activity, and lower risk of non-communicable diseases, including obesity and hypertension, are identified benefits of the usage of urban green spaces. However, lack of green spaces and neglect of these spaces increase the risk of respiratory problems and vector-borne diseases. Strategic investments in urban green spaces, policy reforms, and community-led greening initiatives are required to improve access and utilization, especially in green-depleted areas. Future research needs to concentrate on experimental and longitudinal methods to demonstrate causal links between urban green space and health outcomes, enhancing sustainable urban planning and health equity in SSA to achieve Sustainable Development Goals 3 and 13.
期刊介绍:
The Journal of Urban Health is the premier and authoritative source of rigorous analyses to advance the health and well-being of people in cities. The Journal provides a platform for interdisciplinary exploration of the evidence base for the broader determinants of health and health inequities needed to strengthen policies, programs, and governance for urban health.
The Journal publishes original data, case studies, commentaries, book reviews, executive summaries of selected reports, and proceedings from important global meetings. It welcomes submissions presenting new analytic methods, including systems science approaches to urban problem solving. Finally, the Journal provides a forum linking scholars, practitioners, civil society, and policy makers from the multiple sectors that can influence the health of urban populations.