Public transportation is an affordable and convenient mode of transportation that is available and accessible to everyone. Besides being an essential part of public infrastructure, public transportation can also contribute positively to individual and public health outcomes. Below are some of the ways public transportation can affect and improve health outcomes.
Social Connectedness
Social isolation and loneliness are significant risk factors for many health problems such as depression, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Public transportation provides passengers with opportunities to interact and connect with other people from diverse backgrounds, helping to alleviate feelings of isolation and loneliness. Furthermore, Public transportation also helps connect people who might not have access to other forms of transportation, such as older adults, people with disabilities, low-income families, and youth.
Physical Activity
One of the ways that public transportation can positively impact health outcomes is by encouraging physical activity. Unlike private cars, public transportation may require passengers to walk, bike or take a stairway to access transport terminals and stations, which contributes to a more active lifestyle. Additionally, daily commuters who use public transportation are more likely to meet the recommended daily exercise requirements than drivers.
Reduced Air Pollution
Public transportation can also mitigate the negative health effects of air pollution, which can cause respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. With many vehicles off the road, public transportation reduces air pollution levels and provides a cleaner and healthier environment. This reduction of air pollutants benefits both passengers and other road users, including pedestrians and cyclists who are vulnerable to these pollutants.
Stress Reduction
There is increasing evidence that stress and anxiety contribute to chronic health problems. Public transportation can help reduce stress levels for people who use them to commute compared to those who drive their cars. For instance, passengers can use their commute time to read, listen to music, or rest, allowing their minds to relax.
Economic Benefits
The affordability of public transportation can have a positive impact on a person’s economic health by providing access to job opportunities and reducing transport costs. With more affordable transport options, people can redirect money to other essentials like grocery, housing, and healthcare. This reduction in economic hardship may, in the long term, lead to improved physical and mental health outcomes.
Conclusion
Public transportation is a crucial part of public health infrastructure that can contribute to better health outcomes for individuals and the wider community. It is vital to encourage the use of public transport, not only for environmental reasons but also for the health benefits that it brings. Governments and communities should continue to invest in public transportation infrastructure and services to support healthier communities.