DOI: 10.17151/hpsal.2025.30.1.3
How to Cite
1.
Acosta-Astaiza CP, Leyton-Luna J. Environmental health models: A literature review. Hacia Promoc. Salud [Internet]. 2025 Jan. 1 [cited 2025 Nov. 8];30(1):21-3. Available from: https://revistasojs.ucaldas.edu.co/index.php/hacialapromociondelasalud/article/view/11091

Authors

Claudia Patricia Acosta-Astaiza
Universidad del Cauca
pacosta@unicauca.edu.co
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9703-5653
Perfil Google Scholar
Javier Leyton-Luna
Universidad del Cauca
javierleyton@unicauca.edu.co
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8237-8071
Perfil Google Scholar

Abstract

Colombia and Latin America show limited implementation of environmental health projects; furthermore, the literature reveals few models of approach, conceptual frameworks, or reference guidelines to support their development. Therefore, it is necessary to contribute to the construction of general models for addressing environmental health, which may serve as the foundation for future research and practical applications. A systematic review was conducted in Scopus, Science Direct, IEEE Xplore, and Google Scholar using the search terms “Environmental health model” or “Environmental quality model” and “Framework” or “Indicators” or “Government” or “Information system”. Only documents, reports, and articles describing models, guidelines, or conceptual frameworks for addressing environmental health were included. In total, 24 studies were selected and analyzed. The review identified three main elements for the development of environmental health projects. First, guidelines provide a set of steps and phases to implement such projects, based on previous experiences. Second, the context of analysis determines the scope and focus of the model or strategy. Third, the indicators to be used offer a quantitative means of evaluation. The selection of appropriate indicators for a given assessment depends on various factors, such as country, population, topography, and type of community. No general model or universally applicable set of indicators was identified; rather, indicator selection is context-dependent and varies
according to the characteristics of the study area or region. This highlights the need for adaptable frameworks and the importance of integrating diverse data sources to support informed decision-making in environmental health.

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