The World Health Organization (WHO) has called for urgent global action to address poor housing conditions, warning that overcrowding, unsafe structures and exposure to extreme temperatures pose serious risks to human health.
In a statement issued on October 31, 2026, to mark World Cities Day, the organization highlighted the growing need to make safe, adequate and accessible housing a priority in public health and urban development policies.
WHO cited the 2026 World Cities Report by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), which estimates that up to 3.4 billion people worldwide lack secure, safe and adequate housing. More than one billion people are living in informal settlements and slums.
The organization explained that housing conditions directly influence people’s health, with inadequate living environments increasing exposure to infectious diseases, injuries and other health risks.
Overcrowded homes can facilitate the spread of infectious diseases, while poor ventilation and indoor air pollution may contribute to respiratory illnesses. Exposure to extreme indoor temperatures, particularly excessive heat and cold, can also affect health and place vulnerable populations at greater risk.
WHO further warned that unsafe housing structures can lead to preventable injuries, while homes that are not accessible to people with disabilities can restrict their independence and access to essential services.
Children, older people and individuals with existing health vulnerabilities may be particularly affected by inadequate housing conditions.
The agency also highlighted the relationship between housing and climate change, noting that well-designed homes can help protect residents from extreme weather while improving energy efficiency and reducing environmental pressures.
WHO called on governments, health authorities, housing ministries, urban planners and other stakeholders to work together to make health considerations central to housing and urban development decisions.
The organisation stressed that access to safe and adequate housing is essential to reducing health inequalities and building healthier, more resilient communities.
As cities continue to expand, WHO’s warning underscores the importance of treating housing not merely as an infrastructure concern but also as a fundamental public health priority.
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