Comparison of Health Status between Peripheral and Central Urban Areas: A Case Study of Karbala and Najaf

Abstract

Marginalization (peripheral informal settlements) is one of the most significant consequences of rapid urbanization and unbalanced urban development. It can adversely affect residents’ health by generating economic, social, and physical inequalities. The cities of Najaf and Karbala, owing to population growth, large-scale migration, and the expansion of informal settlements, face multiple challenges in the provision of urban services and public health. Accordingly, the present study aims to compare the health status as well as the economic, social, and physical characteristics of residents living in peripheral (marginal) areas and central urban areas of Najaf and Karbala. This research is applied in purpose and descriptive–analytical and survey-based in method. Required data were collected through documentary studies and field surveys using a structured questionnaire. The statistical population consisted of residents of Najaf and Karbala, from which a sample of 684 individuals was selected through appropriate sampling methods. Data analysis employed descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation) as well as one-sample t-tests and analysis of variance (ANOVA). The results revealed significant differences between residents of peripheral and central urban areas in several economic, social, and physical indicators. Examination of sample characteristics further indicated differences between the two cities in access to cooling and heating facilities, income status, health-related behaviors, and patterns of healthcare service utilization—differences that can influence quality of life and health outcomes. The findings demonstrated that the quality of the residential environment, urban facilities and infrastructure, household economic status, and health-oriented behaviors are among the most important determinants of residents’ health. Deprivation of these amenities in peripheral areas increases the likelihood of health inequalities. Overall, the results underscore the necessity of simultaneously addressing economic, social, physical, and health dimensions in urban planning. Development of infrastructure in peripheral areas, improvement of housing quality, enhancement of equitable access to health services, elevation of household welfare, and implementation of educational and preventive programs can play an effective role in reducing health inequalities and improving the quality of life of residents in Najaf and Karbala.