Designed for life: Building cities that make us healthier (external event)

External Event held by University of Reading

  • Location
    University of Reading, Van Emden Lecture Theatre, Edith Morley Building, Whiteknights Campus
  • Time
    6pm - 8pm
  • Date
    Wed 19 Nov 2025
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Chronic diseases like cancer, diabetes and heart conditions now account for 70% of deaths worldwide, according to the World Health Organization. These illnesses put pressure on the NHS and rob millions of the chance to live full, healthy lives. While genetics and lifestyle choices play a role, there's another factor at play: the places that we live.

Join Professor Kathy Pain, with Professor Antoni Chan, for this thought-provoking public lecture that explores how urban environments shape our health for better or worse. Drawing on insights from both urban planning and clinical medicine, they’ll explore why some postcodes can add years to your life while others take them away, and offer practical steps you can take to advocate for better, healthier neighbourhoods.

This free event is open to all and will be held in person, with a livestream available for those wishing to watch online.