Impact of exogenous change of the physical environment on social determinants of health

Research to quantify the health effects of urban renewal has focused on psychological trauma most notably the phenomena of “Root Shock.” It has been posited that urban renewal and accompanying displacement is the fundamental cause for disease by means of influencing the distribution and access of resources. Exogenous change to the built environment in low and moderate income communities may impact social capital, health networks and social determinants of health. The overall aim of this research project is to assess physical changes to a Miami minority community and the accompanying changes in social networks, pollution and safety, employment patterns, educational attainment, healthcare and housing tenure. Data are collected by conducting oral histories, interviews, town hall meetings and mapping exercises. Preliminary data suggests that municipal transportation and community development agencies perceive health and social services as outside of the purview of their agencies. Community members perceive offers of token participation in the planning process as an attempt to weaken social networks and ignore demands for components that address their safety and physiological hierarchal needs. Outcomes of the investigation could inform urban planning efforts aimed at addressing health and its social determinants as well as offer avenues for expanding the “Root Shock” paradigm.