Full Answer Section

Social Determinants of Health

Several social determinants of health significantly impact Kibera’s residents:

• Poverty: Limited access to basic necessities like clean water, sanitation, and healthcare.  
• Unsafe Housing: Poor housing conditions, overcrowding, and exposure to environmental hazards.
• Limited Access to Healthcare: Inadequate healthcare facilities, long waiting times, and high costs.  
• Poor Sanitation: Open defecation and inadequate sanitation facilities contribute to the spread of diseases.
• Food Insecurity: Many residents face food insecurity, leading to malnutrition and related health issues.  
• Violence and Crime: High rates of crime and violence can negatively impact mental health and physical safety.

Health Disparities

Kibera residents experience significant health disparities compared to other parts of Nairobi:  

• High Infant and Maternal Mortality Rates: Due to lack of access to quality maternal and child healthcare.
• Prevalent Infectious Diseases: High rates of HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, and waterborne diseases.
• Mental Health Issues: Stress, trauma, and limited access to mental health services contribute to high rates of mental health problems.  
• Non-communicable Diseases: Increasing prevalence of chronic diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.
• Malnutrition: Undernutrition and micronutrient deficiencies are common, especially among children.  

Note: To conduct a more comprehensive and accurate community profile, it is essential to consult local health authorities, NGOs, and academic institutions. Data from reliable sources, such as the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics and the World Health Organization, can provide valuable insights into the specific challenges faced by Kibera residents.