Childhood obesity is a growing concern globally, influenced not only by individual choices but also by the environments in which children live and learn. In dense urban settings like Singapore, the widespread availability of fast-food outlets near schools may expose children to unhealthy food options daily. We investigate the spatial clustering of fast-food outlets around schools across Singapore, focusing on how the pattern varies by neighbourhood income and school type, revealing significant socio-spatial health inequalities.

Singapore has one of the highest healthy life expectancies and has comparatively low levels of overweight and obesity. It is also renowned for its far-sighted comprehensive urban planning. Our research examines links between the two.

Establishments that primarily sell ultra-processed foods were twice as concentrated at 800m from the households when compared to 1600m, demonstrating the excess of supply of these products closer to individuals in food insecurity. The low availability of natural/minimally processed food establishments in the two metrics evaluated, portrays the low supply of foods directly associated with health, well-being and quality of life.