Bad health is a growing concern among most urban dwellers. Polluted air and water and lack of nutritious food is causing several problems including early deaths. Increased urbanisation has taken a heavy toll on city dwellers’ health. However, some cities fare better than others.
Compiled from the Hindustan Times, below are some of the healthiest cities to live in across the world:
Amsterdam
The city ranked number one in a study done by rental agency Spotahome, who analysed data from the World Health Organisation, TripAdvisor and the CIA World Factbook to score each city on health, gym availability and quality, life expectancy, obesity, and green space. Amsterdam scored the highest in terms of average gym score, less obesity in adults, green spaces and work-life balance.
Adelaide
This Australian city has an extremely low rate of obesity while the air and water quality is 8.88%. Apart from Adelaide, other Australian cities like Perth, Brisbane and Canberra also made it to the index.
Seville
The Spanish city has a life expectancy of 82 years. The city runs a successful community bicycle sharing programme as well which contributes to overall well-being. Residents are exposed to just 7.1 micrograms of pollution here.
Oslo
Norway’s capital promises good quality of life with exposure to air pollution limited to just 5.6 micrograms per cubic metre. The life expectancy in this city is also 82 years.
Stockholm
Stockholm has made an incredible effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution levels. Residents are also exposed to just 7 micrograms of pollutant, which is among the least in the world.
Munich
The German city has an obesity rate of just 2.87, and air and water quality of 9.17. It is sometimes referred to as ‘toytown’ considering there is little dirt or grime there.