Public Health

The built environment and public health

Low density, auto dependent, residential developments have a negative impact on physical activity.The lack of walkable destinations and pedestrian-friendly street networks eliminates physical activity from daily routines. This pattern of sprawling development has contributed to the epidemic in obesity among both children and adults.
Automobile dependency increases health problems due to air pollution and as the result of car accidents. Chester County is in a non-attainment area meaning air pollution persistently exceeds health standards. Auto emissions are a major contributor to air pollution, which increases asthma, and contributes to lung damage and other diseases. Automobiles are responsible for many pedestrian and bicycle fatalities and injuries. Children and elderly pedestrians are especially vulnerable.

Protection of a healthy food supply is becoming more complicated. There have been recent incidences of illness due to contamination of the food supply. There have been cases affecting vegetables and meat. The Health Department must be able to respond to any widespread food contaminations to remove and keep damaged food from the public supply.
It is difficult to control the spread of diseases like Lyme and West Nile Virus. Environmental protection and monitoring is critical. The County Health Department has surveillance programs to monitor infestations of mosquitoes and other insects to prevent the spread of these diseases. Rodent control is also important to prevent the spread of disease. Continued public education is needed, about the causes and prevention of these and other illnesses.
The spread of contamination and illness has become a greater threat because of the increase in international travel. Some illnesses can be spread over great distances very quickly.

The prevalence of chronic disease, unhealthy lifestyles, and obesity, is a public health crisis. Individuals who do not choose healthy lifestyles, including good nutrition, physical activity, avoiding tobacco, limiting sun exposure, and receiving regular health screenings, are at risk of long term health problems.. Also, many county residents are not aware of the Health Department’s initiative “Activate Chester County”, which promotes the creation of trails and sidewalks, the use of community gardens, and promotion of local farmers markets.
People living in poverty, and racial and ethnic minorities, have higher rates of disease and health problems. These include infant mortality, tuberculosis, and sexually transmitted diseases. Promotion of nutrition and referral to health and social programs is important for pregnant women, new mothers, and children. Some populations, including non-English speakers, can be difficult to reach. Many residents may not be receiving important services, including pre-natal care, immunizations, vision and hearing screenings, and information about healthy lifestyles and disease prevention.