Neighborhood green-ness linked to heart health
July 2012
Photo: Jake Allison
On Monday, the Science Network of Western Australia published the results of a research study linking the prevalence of neighborhood green-ness with lower incidences of heart disease and stroke. According to the results, the odds of hospitalization due to heart disease or stroke were 1/3 lower among adults living in neighborhoods with tree-lined streets and vegetation in the Perth, Australia metropolitan area (compared with those living in areas with low prevalence of green-ness). Dr Pereira, lead author of the study, suggests that a good mixture of built and natural environments entices people out of their homes and cars, promoting increased physical activity.
“Green-ness” in the study was determined by calculating trees and the presence of parks and green spaces within 1600 m of residence. More than 11,000 Perth neighborhoods were studied.
For more information, visit the results of the study at the Science Network of Australia’s website.