Housing and Health

Housing and Health

In Latin America and the Caribbean, health issues and the housing deficit are two deeply intertwined challenges. 

Studies have shown that factors such as poor design and construction materials, lack of water and sanitation services, housing affordability, and tenure insecurity have direct impacts on people’s health. The most significant effects include gastrointestinal illnesses and related child mortality, increased levels of stress, anxiety and depression, as well as respiratory diseases. 

These issues, in turn, are indirectly connected to individuals’ economic situations, nutrition, and cognitive development. All of these impacts disproportionately affect women, older adults, and children. 

Habitat for Humanity promotes access to adequate housing in the region through affordable financing, quality housing standards, and strategies that strengthen families’ economic security—especially for women. Its comprehensive approach demonstrates that improving housing conditions contributes to the overall well-being and development of communities.

Author

Katrina Lisnichuk, Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning (MEAL) Manager, Habitat for Humanity Latin America and the Caribbean.