Proximity of dwellings in areas unfit for habitation

This research stems from our current thesis work, entitled: "Proximity of dwellings in areas unfit for habitation and exposure to health risks through occupation of low-lying areas and mountain slopes in Yaoundé". Using a psychometric approach to natural hazards, this research aims to show that social (contextual) and psychological factors (linked to the quality of risk perception) contribute to people's exposure to health risks in the lowlands and on the mountain slopes of Yaoundé. The vulnerability of populations living in precarious settlements (in the lowlands and on mountain slopes) to certain diseases and natural disasters can be observed through environmental degradation, the under-equipment of these settlements and the weakness of the means of protection against natural hazards in place. The socio-economic and socio-demographic context, the preference given to individual housing in the African urban context, and inoperative urban policies all contribute to their exposure to health risks through occupation of the lowlands and mountain slopes.