Urbanization significantly impacts health outcomes, particularly among middle and low-income families in Nigeria, leading to a rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). This theoretical paper explores the relationship between urbanization and NCDs, focusing on three key objectives: identifying risk factors associated with urbanization, analyzing health outcomes across Nigeria's six geopolitical zones, and assessing the availability and accessibility of healthcare services.

The study integrates the Social Determinants of Health (SDH) framework and Urban Health Penalty Theories to understand how urbanization affects NCD prevalence. Key risk factors identified include environmental pollution, unhealthy lifestyles, and limited access to healthcare. The analysis reveals significant variations in NCD prevalence among Nigeria's geopolitical zones, with urban areas exhibiting higher rates of hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.

Lack of access further exacerbates health disparities, with middle and low-income families facing financial and infrastructural barriers to effective NCD management. The study concludes that there is a complex interplay between urbanization and public health as multiple urban challenges affect the health life of urban residents.

It is recommended that healthcare infrastructure and accessibility be enhanced, implementing targeted lifestyle interventions, and strengthening primary healthcare are crucial for managing the health impacts of urbanization. By addressing these recommendations, policymakers can better mitigate the adverse effects of urbanization on health and improve outcomes for vulnerable populations.