American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What was a critical issue addressed by the Public Health Movement besides worker safety?

1. Lack of affordable housing

2. Poor factory conditions

3. Slum living conditions marked by open sewage

4. Environmental pollution from factories

The correct answer is: Slum living conditions marked by open sewage

The Public Health Movement, which gained momentum in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, focused significantly on addressing various health crises stemming from urbanization and industrialization. One of the most critical issues it tackled was slum living conditions, particularly those characterized by open sewage. This problem was a direct result of rapid urban growth, where inadequate sanitation infrastructure led to the spread of diseases such as cholera and typhoid fever. The movement emphasized the importance of clean living environments to prevent disease transmission and promote overall public health. Efforts included improving sanitation systems, providing clean drinking water, and advocating for better urban planning to eliminate open sewage systems that were prevalent in impoverished areas. Addressing these living conditions was crucial for reducing mortality rates and improving the health of urban populations. While other issues like affordable housing, poor factory conditions, and environmental pollution were certainly relevant and intersected with public health, the immediate focus on slum conditions and sanitation played a pivotal role in the agenda of the Public Health Movement, thereby significantly impacting health outcomes in urban areas.