Inequity in poverty: the emerging public health challenge in Johannesburg

In 2005, in recognition of the role of social factors in increasing health inequities, the World Health Organisation established the Commission on the Social Determinants of Health. South Africa is among the most unequal societies in the world. It faces serious public health challenges, including an...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Development southern Africa (Sandton, South Africa) South Africa), 2009-12, Vol.26 (5), p.721-732
Main Authors: Mathee, Angela, Harpham, Trudy, Barnes, Brendon, Swart, André, Naidoo, Shan, de Wet, Thea, Becker, Piet
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Diseases
Gauteng
health
Health inequality
Health promotion
Housing
inequity
Johannesburg
Johannesburg, South Africa
Poverty
Poverty relief
Public health
Social conditions
Socioeconomic status
South Africa
Urban
Urban areas
Violence
Wealth distribution
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Summary:In 2005, in recognition of the role of social factors in increasing health inequities, the World Health Organisation established the Commission on the Social Determinants of Health. South Africa is among the most unequal societies in the world. It faces serious public health challenges, including an elevated burden of chronic disease, and high levels of violence. This paper presents data from a cross-sectional study of socio-economic and health status conducted in five Johannesburg housing settlements in 2006. The findings paint a picture of health inequities across and within the study sites, and socio-environmental conditions that undermine the prospects of protecting and promoting health. The authors suggest the need for a new approach to public health in areas of urban impoverishment in Johannesburg and elsewhere.
ISSN:0376-835X
1470-3637
DOI:10.1080/03768350903303266