The Built Environment and Pediatric Health.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Pediatrics
• Community Health

Background:

• The built environment, encompassing human-made structures in communities, profoundly affects child and adolescent health.
• Community design policies are a root cause of social determinants of health disparities and health inequity.
• Understanding the built environment's influence is crucial for pediatric health professionals' patient care and advocacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe pediatric physical and mental health conditions influenced by the built environment.
• To detail the historical and persistent effects of the built environment on health disparities.
• To outline community design solutions for improving pediatric health and equity.

Main Methods:

• This technical report synthesizes information on the built environment's impact on pediatric health.
• It examines the links between community design, social determinants of health, and health equity.
• The accompanying policy statement offers actionable solutions for health professionals and policymakers.

Main Results:

• The built environment influences a wide range of pediatric physical and mental health outcomes.
• Disparities in built environments exacerbate health inequities among children and adolescents.
• Community design strategies can mitigate negative health impacts and promote health equity.

Conclusions:

• Pediatricians and health professionals can leverage knowledge of the built environment to improve patient care.
• Advocacy for health-promoting community design is essential for advancing child health and equity.
• Integrating built environment considerations into healthcare practices can foster healthier environments for all families.