The U.S. transportation system can be harmful to our health, but it doesn’t need to be. While motorized transportation modes still dominate—leading to increased air pollution, traffic crashes, and decreased physical activity—opportunities abound to increase alternative transportation options that support walking and cycling, and improve health.
- Transportation is one of the economic and social factors that influences people’s health and the health of a community.
- The health costs associated with traffic crashes, air pollution, and physical inactivity add up to hundreds of billions of dollars each year, but health is typically not considered in transportation policy and planning.
- The National Prevention Strategy and Action Plan is working to boost Americans’ health in part through encouraging the development of livable, walkable communities, bike lanes, and other healthy transit options.
The brief concludes that health impacts and costs should be factored into decisions about transportation and community development at all levels. Increasing transportation options, such as those that promote walking, biking, and use of public transit, can help improve public health.
Infographic: Better Transportation Options = Healthier Lives
Health Policy Snapshot
Two-page briefs providing insight and analysis on key issues affecting health and health care in the United States.
View all
