As cities grow and change, social relations and physical systems evolve with an intricate interdependence and distinctive ecologies. The problems for health that people confront everywhere are intensified by the density and diversity of urban settings. Traffic patterns, zoning laws, quality schools, and police practices are also intimately connected to health, even if the mechanisms have not been as carefully demonstrated to date. Indeed, it is hard to imagine a municipal service or plan that does not have an impact on a city's health. Yet, health is rarely, if ever, taken into account when political decisions are made about physical structures and social services.
Corporate executives act to maximize profits.
Government bodies too often choose politically expedient means, which, not surprisingly, correspond to the interests of the wealthy and powerful. Those who are neither wealthy nor powerful are not consulted and rarely informed about projects and activities that dramatically affect their health and lives. 19 Getting Political Health professionals in general, and urban health specialists in particular, can expose the potential health impacts of private and public urban policy. Communities need to be informed of both dangers and opportunities. Health should be a high priority in the evaluation of any project.