Abstract
Transportation decisions affect our lives and health. Everyone relies upon various modes of transportation to get to work or school, receive medical attention, access healthy foods at grocery stores and markets and participate in countless other activities. However, too many people are negatively impacted by inequitable transportation decisions that are detrimental to public health. The many connections between transportation and health have gained attention in recent years, particularly the health impacts of transportation to vulnerable populations. Health and transportation professionals have different scientific backgrounds and separate organizational structures, yet they aim to answer similar questions. What are the linkages between health and transportation datasets? What is the scientific literature telling us about these linkages, on topics like safety, physical activity, air quality and access? What are the implications for the nation’s most vulnerable communities, and what health disparities are impacting them? Fortunately, the emerging research and policy implications provide a common ground for health improvement.
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