Neighbourhood differentials and environmental health interface in Lagos metropolis, Nigeria

This paper investigates differentials in key socioeconomic attributes and environmental conditions and the resultant effects on environmental health in the Lagos Metropolis. A comparative study of Ikoyi, Dolphin Estate and Obalende, three contiguous neighbourhoods (low, medium and high density) is done.Issues examined include housing and environmental conditions; socioeconomic characteristics such as age, gender, income, household size and level of education were also considered. The major similarities and differences were identified and their implications on public health within each subset were determined.The study shows that socio-economic attributes and indeed aspects of the built environment tend to interact with and magnify health disparities; Average monthly income was US$833, US$500 and US$150 in Ikoyi, Dolphin Estate and Obalende respectively. Household access to safe water was ranging from 71% in Ikoyi to 28% in Obalende hence the high incidence of sanitation ailments there.The paper concludes by suggesting measures to mitigate identified disparities and aid the evolution of a more equitable and healthy Lagos. These include the integration of urban planning and public health and the enforcement of basic sanitation regulations in the study area.

► Socio-economic attributes interact with and magnify health disparities.
► Governance structures influence environmental conditions and health outcomes.
► Civic engagement improves environmental health outcomes.