Abstract

The rising prevalence of obesity reflects the influence of obesogenic environments settings that promote excessive 
calorie intake and discourage physical activity across both urban and rural contexts. Urban areas, where over half 
the global population resides, shape opportunities for physical activity, dietary habits, and social interaction 
through urban design, green spaces, traffic patterns, and food accessibility. In contrast, rural regions face 
challenges such as limited access to recreational facilities and healthy food options, compounded by socioeconomic 
disparities and cultural factors that shape eating behaviors. Current research highlights inconsistencies due to 
methodological variations, inadequate differentiation between perceived and objective environmental measures, 
and insufficient focus on diverse global contexts. Future research must integrate behavioral and environmental 
determinants at multiple levels to clarify causal pathways and inform community-based interventions. The 
implications for public health are profound, requiring multi-level strategies that mitigate obesogenic conditions, 
reduce individual vulnerability, and foster health-promoting environments. Emerging approaches such as 
community engagement through participatory interventions, technological innovations, smart-city initiatives, and 
mobile health applications present promising opportunities to reshape both urban and rural settings toward 
healthier living. Collectively, these insights underscore the urgent need for interdisciplinary action, data-driven 
urban design, and technological integration to counteract obesity and enhance global health outcomes.