Back on track: prevention of chronic disease through the retrofit of Winnipeg’s built environment

Abstract

We are in the midst of a chronic disease epidemic with a healthcare system that focuses on treatment rather than prevention. A system that spends a tremendous amount of money doing so while budget restraints are being put forward. This design practicum aims to discover the impact that the built environment has on the health of Winnipegers. It looks at the role the environment plays on the transition from infectious disease to chronic disease and what creates an environment that supports health and well-being. It will then assess the current health of Winnipeg and use the discovered guidelines to offer three design interventions that can aid in the prevention of chronic disease and promote a healthy lifestyle.