It’s linked to healthier arteries.
Living near green spaces such as parks and blue spaces like lakes may offer significant cardiovascular benefits, according to recent research published in Circulation. The study, led by Dr. Lifang Hou from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, examined data from nearly 3,000 middle-aged urban residents over a span of 25 years across Birmingham, Ala.; Chicago; Minneapolis; and Oakland, Calif. The research focused on the relationship between proximity to natural environments and coronary artery calcification, a condition where calcium deposits form plaques on artery walls, potentially leading to heart disease.
The findings suggest that for every 10% increase in access to green spaces, there was a 15% reduction in the odds of coronary artery calcification. This highlights the protective role of green spaces in cardiovascular health. Dr. Hou emphasized the importance of these findings in shaping urban planning policies that enhance the accessibility and quality of residential natural spaces.
Notably, the study revealed significant benefits for Black individuals living in economically disadvantaged neighborhoods. Those with greater access to rivers had a 32% lower likelihood of coronary artery calcification compared to their counterparts with limited access. Similarly, increased access to green spaces was associated with up to a 35% decrease in the odds of hardened arteries among Black participants.
The research underscores the broader public health implications of investing in parks, lakes, and other natural areas within cities. These environments not only encourage physical activity but also facilitate social interactions, stress relief, and overall well-being, all of which are linked to improved cardiovascular and metabolic health. Additionally, exposure to green and blue spaces has been shown to boost immune function, reduce chronic inflammation, and potentially slow down the aging process, further supporting their role in promoting long-term health benefits.
Dr. Hou and her team advocate for targeted urban development strategies that prioritize equitable access to natural spaces, aiming to reduce health disparities related to race and socioeconomic status. By enhancing urban green and blue infrastructure, cities can potentially mitigate cardiovascular risks and improve the overall health outcomes of their residents. This research underscores the multifaceted benefits of integrating natural environments into urban planning efforts, emphasizing their critical role in promoting community health and well-being.
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