La Ceiba, Honduras

La Ceiba, situated on Honduras's northern Caribbean coast, is the capital of the Atlántida department and ranks as the country's fourth most populous city. As of 2023, it has an estimated population of approximately 232,696 residents, with about 92.7% living in urban areas.  The city's economy is primarily driven by agriculture—particularly pineapple and banana exports—and tourism. Despite its economic activities, La Ceiba grapples with significant poverty and income inequality, which hinder local business growth and development.  ​            Health challenges are prevalent in La Ceiba, especially among vulnerable populations. The city is part of Honduras's "Central Corridor of Development," regions with higher HIV/AIDS prevalence. Children in La Ceiba often face malnutrition, limited access to education, and exposure to violence, with many engaged in informal labor sectors. Healthcare infrastructure includes facilities like Hospital Atlántida Integrado and Hospital Vicente D'Antoni, yet access to quality care remains limited for many residents. These socioeconomic and health issues are further exacerbated by frequent natural disasters, such as hurricanes and flooding, which disproportionately impact the city's poorest communities.