Dynamiques urbaines et santé des enfants en afrique subsaharienne: Perspectives théoriques

Abstract

In sub-Saharan Africa child health represents an increasingly crucial issue to achieve development goals. Some sub-Saharan countries show a health paradox whereby child survival is higher in rural areas than in urban areas. Based on a literature review on the relationship between urban growth and health dynamics, this study describes, compares and critically reviews research results on urban health. A particular emphasis is given to the issue of child health in French-speaking sub-Saharan Africa. Through a set of 82 studies, this descriptive and comparative review points at key issues from existing evidences and highlights similarities and differentials in urban health. The study also critically addresses methodological issues. It concludes by noting the diversity of urban health situations as well as the complexity of factors explaining the relationship between urban dynamics and population health.