The article examines the complex relationships among the sociological concept of socio-spatial segregation, urban poverty and health promotion, suggesting research topics that could contribute to a detailed analysis of the Brazilian social reality within the public health context, underpinning decisions on healthcare. Initially, the main aspects of the social division problems in major cities are examined from the historical and sociological viewpoints. The inaccuracies and problems related to the concept of segregation are then discussed analytically, referenced to discussions of urban sociology. The importance of new information and the decoupage of other levels of social ties are also addressed, taking the problems of health promotion into account. Finally, four themes are listed that might well constitute a research agenda: analysis of socio-spatial segregation structures; comparison of social structures and socialization practices in poverty-stricken neighborhoods; a study of the middle class and its space distribution; and Government policies, regulations curtailing segregation and urban inequalities.
Social divisions; Health promotion; Health information; urban sociology