How did the industrial revolution impact public health in cities?

The Industrial Revolution significantly transformed urban environments, leading to dramatic changes in public health. As people moved to cities in search of work in factories, urban populations surged, resulting in overcrowded living conditions. These densely packed populations often lived in substandard housing, which lacked adequate sanitation and clean water supply. The close proximity of individuals facilitated the rapid spread of diseases such as cholera and typhoid, which became rampant during this period.

The poor living conditions, combined with inadequate waste disposal systems and the absence of public health infrastructure, created an environment where diseases could thrive. Consequently, the statement accurately reflects how the Industrial Revolution initially exacerbated public health issues in urban areas rather than improving them. While some long-term improvements did occur eventually, the immediate effects of industrialization included a rise in health problems due to these unfavorable living conditions.