Effect of exposure to natural environment on health inequalities: an observational population study

Making Education Easy

Authors:

Mitchell R and Popham F

February 18, 2009

Summary:

These researchers compared income-related health inequality in areas of England with different amounts of green space. Individuals younger than retirement age were divided into groups on the basis of income deprivation and access to green space. Mortality data for 2001–05 revealed that the populations with the most access to green space had the weakest associations between income-related deprivation and both allcause and circulatory disease mortality. The investigators estimated that areas with the most green space saved 1,328 lives per year in the three lower income quartiles. Green space did not have any effect on deaths from lung cancer (p=0.0996) or intentional self-harm (p=0.1030).

Comment:

I have included these studies together to show the importance of urban planning in terms of impact on health for both children and adults. As the first study showed, it’s not just a matter of having local ‘safe’ or dedicated spaces for exercise (such as walking paths or gyms); children are more likely to be active when there is green space, presumably reflecting their desire to play/run/kick balls/etc outside! ‘Green space’ also appears to be associated with reduced inequalities in adult death rates from specific disease (such as heart disease and stroke) across levels of deprivation. It should be noted, however, that disparities, although reduced, still persist. Therefore, attention to both the provision of green space and level of deprivation is required to improve wellbeing.

Reference: Lancet. 2008;372(9650):1655-60

Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood

Dr Matire Harwood (Ngapuhi) has worked in Hauora Māori, primary health and rehabilitation settings as clinician and researcher since graduating from Auckland Medical School in 1994. She also holds positions on a number of boards, committees and advisory groups including the Health Research Council. Matire lives in Auckland with her whānau including partner Haunui and two young children Te Rangiura and Waimarie.

Research Review publications are intended for New Zealand health professionals.

Disclaimer: This publication is not intended as a replacement for regular medical education but to assist in the process. The reviews are a summarised interpretation of the published study and reflect the opinion of the writer rather than those of the research group or scientific journal. It is suggested readers review the full trial data before forming a final conclusion on its merits.

Effect of exposure to natural environment on health inequalities: an observational population study

Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood

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Effect of exposure to natural environment on health inequalities: an observational population study

Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood

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