Mixed-Use Development as an Obesity Reduction Tool

An introductory lesson in mixed-use development produces lessons and resources for obesity reduction.

1 minute read

August 10, 2016, 6:00 AM PDT

By James Brasuell @CasualBrasuell


An article by Tim Chen notes the growing obesity rates around the world—now a trend in developing countries as well as the developed world—before identifying planning as a potential source of obesity prevention measures. Initiatives to curb obesity are plentiful, but a strategy based in the discipline of city planning merits particular attention, especially in rapidly developing environments where the most impact could be made."

Chen thus examines mixed use development as the organizing idea behind these obesity prevention measures, calling on David Osrin, a professor of Global Health at University College London and Senior Research Fellow at the Wellcome Trust, to explain the details.

"The link between obesity and our modes of transport may seem tenuous. But, when there is a mixture of places offering a variety of functions within an accessible distance, rates of active transport increase; countries with the highest levels of active transport also have the lowest obesity rates," writes Chen.

Tuesday, August 9, 2016 in Forbes

View form second story inside Southdale Mall in Edina, Minnesota with escalators and model cars parked on downstairs floor.

The Mall Is Dead — Long Live the Mall

The American shopping mall may be closer to its original vision than ever.

March 21, 2024 - Governing

View of Austin, Texas skyline with river in foreground during morning golden hour.

The Paradox of American Housing

How the tension between housing as an asset and as an essential good keeps the supply inadequate and costs high.

March 26, 2024 - The Atlantic

Houston, Texas skyline.

Report: Las Vegas, Houston Top List of Least Affordable Cities

The report assesses the availability of affordable rental units for low-income households.

March 22, 2024 - Urban Edge

Aerial view of Anchorage, Alaska downtown with mountains in background at golden hour.

Anchorage Leaders Debate Zoning Reform Plan

Last year, the city produced the fewest new housing units in a decade.

4 hours ago - Anchorage Daily News

Young man in wheelchair crossing zebra crosswalk.

How to Protect Pedestrians With Disabilities

Public agencies don’t track traffic deaths and injuries involving disabled people, leaving a gap in data to guide safety interventions.

5 hours ago - Governing

Aerial view of mountain town of Steamboat Springs, Colorado in the winter with snow at dusk.

Colorado Town Fills Workforce Housing Need With ‘Dorm-Style’ Housing

Median rent in Steamboat Springs is $4,000 per month.

6 hours ago - CBS News

News from HUD User

HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research

Call for Speakers

Mpact Transit + Community

New Updates on PD&R Edge

HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.

Planning for Universal Design

Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.