UN-Habitat works to position health outcomes at the centre of urban development efforts and to support cities and partners in developing adequate urban planning systems, processes and tools to achieve healthy cities for all.

Health is influenced by multiple factors. And many of them are outside the control of the health sector. In cities and regions, planning and design play a central role in the prevention of disease and in fostering healthier environments. For example, effective urban design, policies, strategies, and plans lead to cleaner air, cleaner water, safer movement of the population, and better prevention measures to curb the spread of disease. Deliberate action in the planning of cities and territories can contribute directly or indirectly to improve overall health and wellbeing.