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Richardson EA, Shortt NK, Mitchell R, Pearce J. A sibling study of whether maternal exposure to different types of natural space is related to birthweight. Int J Epidemiol 2019; 47:146-155. [PMID: 29253203 PMCID: PMC5837571 DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyx258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2017] [Accepted: 11/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Birthweight is an important determinant of health across the life course. Maternal exposure to natural space has been linked to higher birthweight, but stronger evidence of a causal link is needed. We use a quasi-experimental sibling study design to investigate if change in the mother’s exposure to natural space between births was related to birthweight, in urban Scotland. Methods Amount (% area) of total natural space, total accessible (public) natural space, parks, woodlands and open water within 100 m of the mother’s postcode was calculated for eligible births (n = 40 194; 1991–2010) in the Scottish Longitudinal Study (a semi-random 5.3% sample of the Scottish population). Associations between natural space and birthweight were estimated, using ordinary least squares and fixed effects models. Results Birthweight was associated with the total amount of natural space around the mother’s home (+8.2 g for interquartile range increase), but was unrelated to specific types of natural space. This whole-sample relationship disappeared in the sibling analysis, indicating residual confounding. The sibling models showed effects for total natural space with births to women who already had children (+20.1 g), and to those with an intermediate level of education (+14.1 g). Conclusions The importance of total natural space for birthweight suggests that benefits can be experienced near to as well as within natural space. Ensuring expectant mothers have good access to high quality neighbourhood natural space has the potential to improve the infant’s start in life, and consequently their health trajectory over the life course.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Richardson
- National Health Service Health Scotland, Edinburgh, UK.,Centre for Research on Environment, Society and Health (CRESH), University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK and
| | - Niamh K Shortt
- Centre for Research on Environment, Society and Health (CRESH), University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK and
| | - Richard Mitchell
- Centre for Research on Environment, Society and Health (CRESH), University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Jamie Pearce
- Centre for Research on Environment, Society and Health (CRESH), University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK and
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Garrett JK, White MP, Huang J, Ng S, Hui Z, Leung C, Tse LA, Fung F, Elliott LR, Depledge MH, Wong MC. Urban blue space and health and wellbeing in Hong Kong: Results from a survey of older adults. Health Place 2019; 55:100-110. [DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2018.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2018] [Revised: 10/22/2018] [Accepted: 11/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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103
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Sandifer PA, Walker AH. Enhancing Disaster Resilience by Reducing Stress-Associated Health Impacts. Front Public Health 2018; 6:373. [PMID: 30627528 PMCID: PMC6309156 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2018.00373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Disasters are a recurring fact of life, and major incidents can have both immediate and long-lasting negative effects on the health and well-being of people, communities, and economies. A primary goal of many disaster preparedness, response, and recovery plans is to reduce the likelihood and severity of disaster impacts through increased resilience of individuals and communities. Unfortunately, most plans do not address directly major drivers of long-term disaster impacts on humans-that is, acute, chronic, and cumulative stress-and therefore do less to enhance resilience than they could. Stress has been shown to lead to or exacerbate ailments ranging from mental illness, domestic violence, substance abuse, post-traumatic stress disorders, and suicide to cardiovascular disease, respiratory problems, and other infirmities. Individuals, groups, communities, organizations, and social ties are all vulnerable to stress. Based on a targeted review of what we considered to be key literature about disasters, resilience, and disaster-associated stress effects, we recommend eight actions to improve resiliency through inclusion of stress alleviation in disaster planning: (1) Improve existing disaster behavioral and physical health programs to better address, leverage, and coordinate resources for stress reduction, relief, and treatment in disaster planning and response. (2) Emphasize pre- and post-disaster collection of relevant biomarker and other health-related data to provide a baseline of health status against which disaster impacts could be assessed, and continued monitoring of these indicators to evaluate recovery. (3) Enhance capacity of science and public health early-responders. (4) Use natural infrastructure to minimize disaster damage. (5) Expand the geography of disaster response and relief to better incorporate the displacement of affected people. (6) Utilize nature-based treatment to alleviate pre- and post-disaster stress effects on health. (7) Review disaster laws, policies, and regulations to identify opportunities to strengthen public health preparedness and responses including for stress-related impacts, better engage affected communities, and enhance provision of health services. (8) With community participation, develop and institute equitable processes pre-disaster for dealing with damage assessments, litigation, payments, and housing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul A. Sandifer
- Center for Coastal Environmental and Human Health, School of Sciences and Mathematics, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC, United States
- Center for Oceans and Human Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
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104
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Blue and Green Spaces as Therapeutic Landscapes: Health Effects of Urban Water Canal Areas of Isfahan. SUSTAINABILITY 2018. [DOI: 10.3390/su10114010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Blue and green spaces contribute to the quality of cities in various ways—ranging from providing air corridors and visual amenities to positively affecting public psychological health and wellbeing. Urban blue and green spaces had geopolitical and agricultural functions in the past. These functions are still evident in many cities. They also provide ecological qualities for the surrounding (sub)urban neighborhoods. While in recent decades, many studies have explored the features and characteristics of urban blue and green spaces that are associated with positive health benefits, the healthy lifestyle promoting role of artificial water canals has received little attention. This case report investigates the canals in Isfahan from Iran that branch off from the Zayandeh Rood River and provide blue and green corridors to the city. The aim of this case report study is to explore the health aspects of urban water canals in physical, mental, and social dimensions based on the residents’ experiences. The study develops a framework for assessing the quality of therapeutic effect of canals in Isfahan, Iran. The paper employs qualitative content analysis as the methodological approach. In total, 200 people from the residential neighborhoods of the Niasarm Canal participated in semi-structured interviews in early 2018. The results of this research reveal that the canal—with ‘upgrade of active life’, ‘sense of rehabilitation, relaxation and concentration along with the canal’, ‘promotion of social life’, and ‘place identity’ characteristics—plays an important therapeutic role on the physical, psychological, and social health conditions of local residents.
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105
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Sharpe RA, Taylor T, Fleming LE, Morrissey K, Morris G, Wigglesworth R. Making the Case for "Whole System" Approaches: Integrating Public Health and Housing. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:E2345. [PMID: 30355973 PMCID: PMC6267345 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15112345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Revised: 10/13/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Housing conditions have been an enduring focus for public health activity throughout the modern public health era. However, the nature of the housing and health challenge has changed in response to an evolution in the understanding of the diverse factors influencing public health. Today, the traditional public health emphasis on the type and quality of housing merges with other wider determinants of health. These include the neighbourhood, community, and "place" where a house is located, but also the policies which make access to a healthy house possible and affordable for everyone. Encouragingly, these approaches to policy and action on housing have the potential to contribute to the "triple win" of health and well-being, equity, and environmental sustainability. However, more effective housing policies (and in public health in general) that adopt more systemic approaches to addressing the complex interactions between health, housing, and wider environment are needed. This paper illustrates some of the key components of the housing and health challenge in developed countries, and presents a conceptual model to co-ordinate activities that can deliver the "triple win." This is achieved by offering a perspective on how to navigate more effectively, inclusively and across sectors when identifying sustainable housing interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard A Sharpe
- Public Health, Cornwall Council, Truro TR1 3AY, UK.
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Truro TR1 3HD, UK.
| | - Tim Taylor
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Truro TR1 3HD, UK.
| | - Lora E Fleming
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Truro TR1 3HD, UK.
| | - Karyn Morrissey
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Truro TR1 3HD, UK.
| | - George Morris
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Truro TR1 3HD, UK.
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106
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Nguyen J, Brymer E. Nature-Based Guided Imagery as an Intervention for State Anxiety. Front Psychol 2018; 9:1858. [PMID: 30333777 PMCID: PMC6176042 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2018.01858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2018] [Accepted: 09/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Anxiety is a significant mental health issue in modern society and empirical research into effective interventions to address anxiety has been extensive. Spending time in nature is one approach that has demonstrated anxiolytic effects. However, in some situations and contexts spending time in nature in order to reduce anxiety symptoms may not be possible. For example, in therapeutic settings delivered in a space with no access or exposure to any nature stimuli in the immediate surrounding environment. Guided imagery (GI) has also proven to be effective for reducing anxiety symptoms. Thus, nature-based GI might help to overcome the limitation of access to nature and strengthen the impact of GI interventions. The current study investigated the effectiveness of nature-based GI on anxiety reduction. Participants (n = 48, 18 males, 30 females, M age = 34.54, SD age = 12.91, age range = 19 - 71 years) with moderate levels of either trait or state anxiety as measured by the state-trait anxiety inventory (STAI) were recruited. Participants undertook both a nature-based GI session and a traditional non-nature-based GI session and their pre- and post- state anxiety levels were measured in each GI session. It was anticipated that post state anxiety scores would be significantly lower for both GI conditions and that a significantly greater anxiety reduction would be found in the nature-based GI than the urban-based GI. A two-way analysis of variance for repeated measures revealed results that supported both hypotheses. This study was the first to compare a nature based GI intervention with a traditional (non-nature based) GI intervention. Findings indicate that nature-based GI interventions are effective anxiety management interventions that have the added benefit of being cost-effective and easily accessible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Nguyen
- Department of Psychology, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Eric Brymer
- Institute of Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
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107
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Svechkina A, Dubnov J, Portnov BA. Environmental risk factors associated with low birth weight: The case study of the Haifa Bay Area in Israel. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2018; 165:337-348. [PMID: 29778968 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2018.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Revised: 04/15/2018] [Accepted: 05/07/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low birth weight (LBW) is known to be associated with infant mortality and postnatal health complications. Previous studies revealed strong relationships between LBW rate and several socio-demographic factors, including ethnicity, maternal age, and family income. However, studies of association between LBW rate and environmental risk factors remain infrequent. STUDY METHODS We retrieved a geo-referenced data set, containing 7216 individual records of children born in 2015 in the Haifa Bay Area in Israel. Using this dataset, we analysed factors affecting LBW prevalence by applying two alternative techniques: analysis of LBW rates in small census area (SCAs) and more recently developed double kernel density (DKD) relative risk (RR) estimates. RESULTS In the SCA models, LBW rate was found to be associated with proximity to petrochemical industries (B=-0.26, 95%CI=-0.30, -0.22), road density (B=0.05, 95%CI=0.02, 0.08), distance to the seashore (B=0.17, 95%CI=0.14, 0.22), PM2.5 (B=0.06, 95%CI=0.04, 0.09) and NOx (B=0.10, 95%CI=0.06, 0.13) exposure estimates. Although similar factors emerged in the DKD models as well, in most cases, the effects of these factors in the latter models were found to be stronger: proximity to petrochemical industries (B=-0.48, 95%CI= -0.51, -0.30), road density (B=0.05, 95%CI=0.02, 0.08), distance to the seashore (B=0.24, 95%CI=0.21, 0.27), PM2.5 (B=0.08, 95%CI=0.05, 0.10) and NOx (B=0.20, 95%CI=0.17, 0.23) exposure estimates. In addition, elevation above the sea level was found to be statistically significant in spatial dependence models estimated for both DKD and SCA rates (P < 0.01). CONCLUSION The analysis revealed an excess LBW rate in residential areas located close to petrochemical industries and a protective effect of seashore proximity and elevation above the sea level on the LBW rate. We attribute the latter finding to the moderating effect of elevated seashore locations on outdoor temperatures during the hot summer season.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina Svechkina
- Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Management, Faculty of Management, University of Haifa, Mount Carmel, Haifa 3498838, Israel
| | - Jonathan Dubnov
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Mount Carmel, Haifa 3498838, Israel
| | - Boris A Portnov
- Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Management, Faculty of Management, University of Haifa, Mount Carmel, Haifa 3498838, Israel.
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108
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Beyond Climate Change and Health: Integrating Broader Environmental Change and Natural Environments for Public Health Protection and Promotion in the UK. ATMOSPHERE 2018. [DOI: 10.3390/atmos9070245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Increasingly, the potential short and long-term impacts of climate change on human health and wellbeing are being demonstrated. However, other environmental change factors, particularly relating to the natural environment, need to be taken into account to understand the totality of these interactions and impacts. This paper provides an overview of ongoing research in the Health Protection Research Unit (HPRU) on Environmental Change and Health, particularly around the positive and negative effects of the natural environment on human health and well-being and primarily within a UK context. In addition to exploring the potential increasing risks to human health from water-borne and vector-borne diseases and from exposure to aeroallergens such as pollen, this paper also demonstrates the potential opportunities and co-benefits to human physical and mental health from interacting with the natural environment. The involvement of a Health and Environment Public Engagement (HEPE) group as a public forum of “critical friends” has proven useful for prioritising and exploring some of this research; such public involvement is essential to minimise public health risks and maximise the benefits which are identified from this research into environmental change and human health. Research gaps are identified and recommendations made for future research into the risks, benefits and potential opportunities of climate and other environmental change on human and planetary health.
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109
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Flandroy L, Poutahidis T, Berg G, Clarke G, Dao MC, Decaestecker E, Furman E, Haahtela T, Massart S, Plovier H, Sanz Y, Rook G. The impact of human activities and lifestyles on the interlinked microbiota and health of humans and of ecosystems. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 627:1018-1038. [PMID: 29426121 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.01.288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2017] [Revised: 01/28/2018] [Accepted: 01/28/2018] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Plants, animals and humans, are colonized by microorganisms (microbiota) and transiently exposed to countless others. The microbiota affects the development and function of essentially all organ systems, and contributes to adaptation and evolution, while protecting against pathogenic microorganisms and toxins. Genetics and lifestyle factors, including diet, antibiotics and other drugs, and exposure to the natural environment, affect the composition of the microbiota, which influences host health through modulation of interrelated physiological systems. These include immune system development and regulation, metabolic and endocrine pathways, brain function and epigenetic modification of the genome. Importantly, parental microbiotas have transgenerational impacts on the health of progeny. Humans, animals and plants share similar relationships with microbes. Research paradigms from humans and other mammals, amphibians, insects, planktonic crustaceans and plants demonstrate the influence of environmental microbial ecosystems on the microbiota and health of organisms, and indicate links between environmental and internal microbial diversity and good health. Therefore, overlapping compositions, and interconnected roles of microbes in human, animal and plant health should be considered within the broader context of terrestrial and aquatic microbial ecosystems that are challenged by the human lifestyle and by agricultural and industrial activities. Here, we propose research priorities and organizational, educational and administrative measures that will help to identify safe microbe-associated health-promoting modalities and practices. In the spirit of an expanding version of "One health" that includes environmental health and its relation to human cultures and habits (EcoHealth), we urge that the lifestyle-microbiota-human health nexus be taken into account in societal decision making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucette Flandroy
- Federal Public Service Health, Food Chain Safety and Environment, Belgium
| | - Theofilos Poutahidis
- Laboratory of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 54124, Greece
| | - Gabriele Berg
- Environmental Biotechnology, Graz University of Technology, Petersgasse 12, A-8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Gerard Clarke
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioural Science, APC Microbiome Institute, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Maria-Carlota Dao
- ICAN, Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Paris, France; INSERM, UMRS U1166 (Eq 6) Nutriomics, Paris 6, France; UPMC, Sorbonne University, Pierre et Marie Curie-Paris 6, France
| | - Ellen Decaestecker
- Aquatic Biology, Department Biology, Science, Engineering & Technology Group, KU Leuven, Campus Kortrijk. E. Sabbelaan 53, B-8500 Kortrijk, Belgium
| | - Eeva Furman
- Finnish Environment Institute (SYKE), Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tari Haahtela
- Skin and Allergy Hospital, Helsinki University Hospital, University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sébastien Massart
- Laboratory of Integrated and Urban Phytopathology, TERRA, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liège, Passage des deportes, 2, 5030 Gembloux, Belgium
| | - Hubert Plovier
- Metabolism and Nutrition Research Group, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Yolanda Sanz
- Microbial Ecology, Nutrition & Health Research Unit, Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology, Spanish National Research Council (IATA-CSIC), Valencia, Spain
| | - Graham Rook
- Centre for Clinical Microbiology, Department of Infection, UCL (University College London), London, UK.
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110
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Hadrich D. Microbiome Research Is Becoming the Key to Better Understanding Health and Nutrition. Front Genet 2018; 9:212. [PMID: 29951086 PMCID: PMC6009232 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2018.00212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 05/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The human microbiome has emerged as the crucial moderator in the interactions between food and our body. It is increasingly recognised that the microbiome can change our mind and health status, or switch on a wide range of diseases including cancer, cardio-metabolic diseases, allergies, and obesity. The causes of diseases are often only partially understood. However, nutrients, metabolites, and microbes are increasingly regarded as key players, even where the complete disease mechanisms remain unclear. The key to progress in the future will be to use and exploit additional, newly emerging disciplines such as metagenomics to complement patient information and to bring our understanding of diseases and the interrelation and effects of nutritional molecules to the next level. The EU has already funded 216 projects under the 7th Framework Programme and Horizon 2020 programmes to promote metagenomics and to advance our knowledge of microbes. This support started with the catalysing MetaHIT project that has produced a catalogue of gut microbes, and has arrived now at the very multi-disciplinary SYSCID action looking at how the microbiome is driving its resilience potential and our health. Together, these projects involve an investment of more than €498 M. However, in Horizon 2020, the new EU Health and Food Work Programmes for 2018–2020 go even further by setting new goals to find applications and to generate more knowledge on the microbiome, nutrition, various hosts of microbes, and their relation to health and disease. The big vision is to modulate health and diseases via the microbiome and nutrition, while at the same time other factors such as omics, molecular signatures, and lifestyle are constant. In this way, microbiome and nutrition research is moving from an isolated and despised offside position to a beacon of hope with a lot of potential and possibilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dirk Hadrich
- European Commission, Innovative and Personalised Medicine Unit, Health Directorate, Directorate-General Research and Innovation, Brussels, Belgium
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111
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Reimer JR, Wu CH, Sorsa KK. Water Exclosure Treatment System (WETS): An innovative device for minimizing beach closures. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 625:809-818. [PMID: 29306169 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.12.330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2017] [Revised: 12/28/2017] [Accepted: 12/28/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
A Water Exclosure Treatment System (WETS) is developed and installed to minimize the occurrence of beach closures due to algae and Escherchia coli (E. coli) in an inland lake. WETS consists of an "exclosure" sub-system with a five-sided polypropylene, barrier that excludes offshore lake contaminated water from the swimming area. Inside the exclosure, water is pumped to a portable filtration-ultraviolet treatment sub-system with three components. First, heavy debris like aquatic plants are removed through a strainer. Second, fine particles are removed through a sand filter and backwashing is automated through a program logic controller triggered by pressure sensor readings. Third, pathogens, algae, bacteria, and viruses are inactivated through ultraviolet (UV) disinfection. To determine sizing of sand filters and evaluation of efficiency of UV disinfection and aid in the design of the inlet and outlet locations for the pump system, computational fluid dynamics modeling with a Lagrangian particle-tracking method are employed. Flushing time is determined to range from 0.67 to 1.89days. Residence time maps reveal inlet and outlet locations play an important role in depicting the duration of particles within the swimming area. Comprehensive water quality sampling is conducted and analyzed with ANOVA testing reveal that water quality parameters inside the exclosure are significantly different than those outside. There have been no beach closures issued since deployment of WETS. Overall, WETS, an innovative Water Exclosure Treatment System, provides safe, clean water inside the exclosure for minimizing beach closure.
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Affiliation(s)
- John R Reimer
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Chin H Wu
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA.
| | - Kirsti K Sorsa
- Department of Public Health of Madison and Dane County, Madison, WI, USA
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112
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Bezold CP, Banay RF, Coull BA, Hart JE, James P, Kubzansky LD, Missmer SA, Laden F. The Association Between Natural Environments and Depressive Symptoms in Adolescents Living in the United States. J Adolesc Health 2018; 62:488-495. [PMID: 29273301 PMCID: PMC5963277 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2017.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2017] [Revised: 10/01/2017] [Accepted: 10/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Exposure to nature and natural environments may be beneficial for mental health; however, most population-based studies have been conducted among adults whereas few have focused on adolescents. We aimed to investigate the relationship between both greenness (vegetation) and blue space (water), and depressive symptoms among teenagers in the United States. METHODS The study population included 9,385 participants ages 12-18 in the 1999 wave of the Growing Up Today Study. We characterized greenness exposure using the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index at a 250-m and 1,250-m radius around a subject's residence using data from the moderate-resolution imaging spectroradiometer onboard the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's Terra satellite. Exposure to blue space was defined as the presence of blue space within a 250-m and 1,250-m radius and distance to the nearest blue space. We used logistic regression models to examine associations with high depressive symptoms, measured using self-reported responses to the McKnight Risk Factor Survey. RESULTS An interquartile range higher peak greenness in the 1,250-m buffer was associated with 11% lower odds of high depressive symptoms (95% confidence interval .79-.99). Although not statistically significant, this association was stronger in middle school students than in high school students. No such association was seen for blue spaces. CONCLUSIONS Surrounding greenness, but not blue space, was associated with lower odds of high depressive symptoms in this population of more than 9,000 U.S. adolescents. This association was stronger in middle school students than in high school students. Incorporating vegetation into residential areas may be beneficial for mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla P. Bezold
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rachel F. Banay
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Brent A. Coull
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA,Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston MA, USA
| | - Jaime E. Hart
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA,Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Peter James
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA,Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA,Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Laura D. Kubzansky
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston MA, USA
| | - Stacey A. Missmer
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Francine Laden
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA,Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA,Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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113
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Helbich M, de Beurs D, Kwan MP, O'Connor RC, Groenewegen PP. Natural environments and suicide mortality in the Netherlands: a cross-sectional, ecological study. Lancet Planet Health 2018; 2:e134-e139. [PMID: 29546252 PMCID: PMC5846805 DOI: 10.1016/s2542-5196(18)30033-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Natural outdoor environments, such as green spaces (ie, grass, forests, or parks), blue spaces (ie, visible bodies of fresh or salt water), and coastal proximity, have been increasingly shown to promote mental health. However, little is known about how and the extent to which these natural environments are associated with suicide mortality. Our aim was to investigate whether the availability of green space and blue space within people's living environments and living next to the coast are protective against suicide mortality. METHODS In this cross-sectional, ecological study, we analysed officially confirmed deaths by suicide between 2005 and 2014 per municipality in the Netherlands. We calculated indexes to measure the proportion of green space and blue space per municipality and the coastal proximity of each municipality using a geographical information system. We fitted Bayesian hierarchical Poisson regressions to assess associations between suicide risk, green space, blue space, and coastal proximity, adjusted for risk and protective factors. FINDINGS Municipalities with a large proportion of green space (relative risk 0·879, 95% credibility interval 0·779-0·991) or a moderate proportion of green space (0·919, 0·846-0·998) showed a reduced suicide risk compared with municipalities with less green space. Green space did not differ according to urbanicity in relation to suicide. Neither blue space nor coastal proximity was associated with suicide risk. The geographical variation in the residual relative suicide risk was substantial and the south of the Netherlands was at high risk. INTERPRETATION Our findings support the notion that exposure to natural environments, particularly to greenery, might have a role in reducing suicide mortality. If confirmed by future studies on an individual level, the consideration of environmental exposures might enrich suicide prevention programmes. FUNDING European Research Council (grant agreement number 714993).
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Helbich
- Department of Human Geography and Spatial Planning, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
- Correspondence to: Dr Marco Helbich, Department of Human Geography and Spatial Planning, Utrecht University, 3584 CS Utrecht, NetherlandsCorrespondence to: Dr Marco Helbich, Department of Human Geography and Spatial PlanningUtrecht UniversityUtrechtCS3584Netherlands
| | - Derek de Beurs
- Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Mei-Po Kwan
- Department of Human Geography and Spatial Planning, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
- Department of Geography and Geographic Information Science, University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Rory C O'Connor
- Suicidal Behaviour Research Laboratory, Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - Peter P Groenewegen
- Department of Human Geography and Spatial Planning, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
- Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research, Utrecht, Netherlands
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Rugel EJ, Henderson SB, Carpiano RM, Brauer M. Beyond the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI): Developing a Natural Space Index for population-level health research. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2017; 159:474-483. [PMID: 28863302 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2017.08.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2017] [Revised: 08/04/2017] [Accepted: 08/16/2017] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Natural spaces can provide psychological benefits to individuals, but population-level epidemiologic studies have produced conflicting results. Refining current exposure-assessment methods is necessary to advance our understanding of population health and to guide the design of health-promoting urban forms. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to develop a comprehensive Natural Space Index that robustly models potential exposure based on the presence, form, accessibility, and quality of multiple forms of greenspace (e.g., parks and street trees) and bluespace (e.g., oceans and lakes). MATERIAL AND METHODS The index was developed for greater Vancouver, Canada. Greenness presence was derived from remote sensing (NDVI/EVI); forms were extracted from municipal and private databases; and accessibility was based on restrictions such as private ownership. Quality appraisals were conducted for 200 randomly sampled parks using the Public Open Space Desktop Appraisal Tool (POSDAT). Integrating these measures in GIS, exposure was assessed for 60,242 postal codes using 100- to 1,600-m buffers based on hypothesized pathways to mental health. A single index was then derived using principal component analysis (PCA). RESULTS Comparing NDVI with alternate approaches for assessing natural space resulted in widely divergent results, with quintile rankings shifting for 22-88% of postal codes, depending on the measure. Overall park quality was fairly low (mean of 15 on a scale of 0-45), with no significant difference seen by neighborhood-level household income. The final PCA identified three main sets of variables, with the first two components explaining 68% of the total variance. The first component was dominated by the percentages of public and private greenspace and bluespace and public greenspace within 250m, while the second component was driven by lack of access to bluespace within 1 km. CONCLUSIONS Many current approaches to modeling natural space may misclassify exposures and have limited specificity. The Natural Space Index represents a novel approach at a regional scale with application to urban planning and policy-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily J Rugel
- School of Population & Public Health, 2206 E Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z9, Canada.
| | - Sarah B Henderson
- School of Population & Public Health, 2206 E Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z9, Canada; British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, 655 W 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4R4, Canada
| | - Richard M Carpiano
- School of Population & Public Health, 2206 E Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z9, Canada; Department of Sociology, University of British Columbia, 6303 NW Marine Drive, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z1, Canada
| | - Michael Brauer
- School of Population & Public Health, 2206 E Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z9, Canada
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115
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Gascon M, Zijlema W, Vert C, White MP, Nieuwenhuijsen MJ. Outdoor blue spaces, human health and well-being: A systematic review of quantitative studies. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2017; 220:1207-1221. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2017.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 285] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2017] [Revised: 08/09/2017] [Accepted: 08/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Donahue A, Feng Z, Kelly E, Reniers A, Solo-Gabriele HM. Significance of beach geomorphology on fecal indicator bacteria levels. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2017; 121:160-167. [PMID: 28595980 PMCID: PMC5548550 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2016] [Revised: 04/29/2017] [Accepted: 05/10/2017] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Large databases of fecal indicator bacteria (FIB) measurements are available for coastal waters. With the assistance of satellite imagery, we illustrated the power of assessing data for many sites by evaluating beach features such as geomorphology, distance from rivers and canals, presence of piers and causeways, and degree of urbanization coupled with the enterococci FIB database for the state of Florida. We found that beach geomorphology was the primary characteristic associated with enterococci levels that exceeded regulatory guidelines. Beaches in close proximity to marshes or within bays had higher enterococci exceedances in comparison to open coast beaches. For open coast beaches, greater enterococci exceedances were associated with nearby rivers and higher levels of urbanization. Piers and causeways had a minimal contribution, as their effect was often overwhelmed by beach geomorphology. Results can be used to understand the potential causes of elevated enterococci levels and to promote public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Donahue
- Department of Biology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA; Center for Oceans and Human Health, Rosenstiel School for Marine and Atmospheric Science, Key Biscayne, FL, USA; Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Zhixuan Feng
- Center for Oceans and Human Health, Rosenstiel School for Marine and Atmospheric Science, Key Biscayne, FL, USA; Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, MA, USA
| | - Elizabeth Kelly
- Center for Oceans and Human Health, Rosenstiel School for Marine and Atmospheric Science, Key Biscayne, FL, USA; Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, Coral Gables, FL, USA; Abess Center for Ecosystem Science and Policy, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Ad Reniers
- Center for Oceans and Human Health, Rosenstiel School for Marine and Atmospheric Science, Key Biscayne, FL, USA; Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences, Delft University of Technology, Delft 2628CN, The Netherlands
| | - Helena M Solo-Gabriele
- Center for Oceans and Human Health, Rosenstiel School for Marine and Atmospheric Science, Key Biscayne, FL, USA; Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, Coral Gables, FL, USA; Abess Center for Ecosystem Science and Policy, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA.
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Green Streets: Urban Green and Birth Outcomes. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2017; 14:ijerph14070771. [PMID: 28703756 PMCID: PMC5551209 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph14070771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Revised: 06/29/2017] [Accepted: 07/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Recent scholarship points to a protective association between green space and birth outcomes as well a positive relationship between blue space and wellbeing. We add to this body of literature by exploring the relationship between expectant mothers' exposure to green and blue spaces and adverse birth outcomes in New York City. The Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), the NYC Street Tree Census, and access to major green spaces served as measures of greenness, while proximity to waterfront areas represented access to blue space. Associations between these factors and adverse birth outcomes, including preterm birth, term birthweight, term low birthweight, and small for gestational age, were evaluated via mixed-effects linear and logistic regression models. The analyses were conducted separately for women living in deprived neighborhoods to test for differential effects on mothers in these areas. The results indicate that women in deprived neighborhoods suffer from higher rates adverse birth outcomes and lower levels of residential greenness. In adjusted models, a significant inverse association between nearby street trees and the odds of preterm birth was found for all women. However, we did not identify a consistent significant relationship between adverse birth outcomes and NDVI, access to major green spaces, or waterfront access when individual covariates were taken into account.
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Beeharry YD, Bekaroo G, Bokhoree C, Phillips MR, Jory N. Sustaining anti-littering behavior within coastal and marine environments: Through the macro-micro level lenses. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2017; 119:87-99. [PMID: 28460879 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.04.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2016] [Revised: 04/12/2017] [Accepted: 04/13/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Being regarded as a problem of global dimensions, marine litter has been a growing concern that affects human beings, wildlife and the economic health of coastal communities to varying degrees. Due to its involvement with human behavior, marine littering has been regarded as a cultural matter encompassing macro and micro level aspects. At the micro or individual level, behavior and behavioral motivation of an individual are driven by perception of that person while at the macro or societal level, aspects including policies and legislations influence behavior. This paper investigates marine littering through the macro-micro level lenses in order to analyze and recommend how anti-littering behavior can be improved and sustained. Using Coleman's model of micro-macro relations, research questions are formulated and investigated through a social survey. Results showed important differences in perceptions among participating groups and to address key issues, potential actions are proposed along with a framework to sustain anti-littering behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yashna Devi Beeharry
- University of Technology, Mauritius, La Tour Koenig, Pointe aux Sables, Mauritius.
| | - Girish Bekaroo
- Middlesex University (Mauritius Branch Campus), Mauritius
| | - Chandradeo Bokhoree
- University of Technology, Mauritius, La Tour Koenig, Pointe aux Sables, Mauritius
| | | | - Neelakshi Jory
- University of Technology, Mauritius, La Tour Koenig, Pointe aux Sables, Mauritius
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Grellier J, White MP, Albin M, Bell S, Elliott LR, Gascón M, Gualdi S, Mancini L, Nieuwenhuijsen MJ, Sarigiannis DA, van den Bosch M, Wolf T, Wuijts S, Fleming LE. BlueHealth: a study programme protocol for mapping and quantifying the potential benefits to public health and well-being from Europe's blue spaces. BMJ Open 2017; 7:e016188. [PMID: 28615276 PMCID: PMC5726080 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-016188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2017] [Revised: 03/23/2017] [Accepted: 03/31/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Proximity and access to water have long been central to human culture and accordingly deliver countless societal benefits. Over 200 million people live on Europe's coastline, and aquatic environments are the top recreational destination in the region. In terms of public health, interactions with 'blue space' (eg, coasts, rivers, lakes) are often considered solely in terms of risk (eg, drowning, microbial pollution). Exposure to blue space can, however, promote health and well-being and prevent disease, although underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. AIMS AND METHODS The BlueHealth project aims to understand the relationships between exposure to blue space and health and well-being, to map and quantify the public health impacts of changes to both natural blue spaces and associated urban infrastructure in Europe, and to provide evidence-based information to policymakers on how to maximise health benefits associated with interventions in and around aquatic environments. To achieve these aims, an evidence base will be created through systematic reviews, analyses of secondary data sets and analyses of new data collected through a bespoke international survey and a wide range of community-level interventions. We will also explore how to deliver the benefits associated with blue spaces to those without direct access through the use of virtual reality. Scenarios will be developed that allow the evaluation of health impacts in plausible future societal contexts and changing environments. BlueHealth will develop key inputs into policymaking and land/water-use planning towards more salutogenic and sustainable uses of blue space, particularly in urban areas. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Throughout the BlueHealth project, ethics review and approval are obtained for all relevant aspects of the study by the local ethics committees prior to any work being initiated and an ethics expert has been appointed to the project advisory board. So far, ethical approval has been obtained for the BlueHealth International Survey and for community-level interventions taking place in Spain, Italy and the UK. Engagement of stakeholders, including the public, involves citizens in many aspects of the project. Results of all individual studies within the BlueHealth project will be published with open access. After full anonymisation and application of any measures necessary to prevent disclosure, data generated in the project will be deposited into open data repositories of the partner institutions, in line with a formal data management plan. Other knowledge and tools developed in the project will be made available via the project website (www.bluehealth2020.eu). Project results will ultimately provide key inputs to planning and policy relating to blue space, further stimulating the integration of environmental and health considerations into decision-making, such that blue infrastructure is developed across Europe with both public health and the environment in mind.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Grellier
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health (ECEHH), University of Exeter Medical School, Truro, UK
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Public Health, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Mathew P White
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health (ECEHH), University of Exeter Medical School, Truro, UK
- Psychology Applied to Health (PAtH), University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, UK
| | - Maria Albin
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine (OEM), Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Lund, Lund, Sweden
- Institute of Environmental Medicine (IMM), Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Simon Bell
- Department of Landscape Architecture, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
- OPENspace, Edinburgh College of Art, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland
| | - Lewis R Elliott
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health (ECEHH), University of Exeter Medical School, Truro, UK
- Psychology Applied to Health (PAtH), University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, UK
| | - Mireia Gascón
- Centre for International Health Research (CRESIB), Instituto de Salud Global de Barcelona (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centre for Research in Environmental Epidemiology (CREAL), Instituto de Salud Global de Barcelona (ISGlobal), Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Silvio Gualdi
- Fondazione Centro Euro-Mediterraneo sui Cambiamenti Climatici (CMCC), Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Mark J Nieuwenhuijsen
- Centre for International Health Research (CRESIB), Instituto de Salud Global de Barcelona (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centre for Research in Environmental Epidemiology (CREAL), Instituto de Salud Global de Barcelona (ISGlobal), Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Matilda van den Bosch
- Department of Forest and Conservation Sciences, Faculty of Forestry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- WHO European Centre for Environment and Health, WHO Regional Office for Europe, Bonn, Germany
- School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Tanja Wolf
- School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Susanne Wuijts
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Lora E Fleming
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health (ECEHH), University of Exeter Medical School, Truro, UK
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Pearson AL, Bottomley R, Chambers T, Thornton L, Stanley J, Smith M, Barr M, Signal L. Measuring Blue Space Visibility and 'Blue Recreation' in the Everyday Lives of Children in a Capital City. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2017; 14:ijerph14060563. [PMID: 28587134 PMCID: PMC5486249 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph14060563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2017] [Revised: 05/23/2017] [Accepted: 05/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Blue spaces (water bodies) may promote positive mental and physical health through opportunities for relaxation, recreation, and social connections. However, we know little about the nature and extent of everyday exposure to blue spaces, particularly in settings outside the home or among children, nor whether exposure varies by individual or household characteristics. Wearable cameras offer a novel, reliable method for blue space exposure measurement. In this study, we used images from cameras worn over two days by 166 children in Wellington, New Zealand, and conducted content and blue space quantification analysis on each image (n = 749,389). Blue space was identified in 24,721 images (3.6%), with a total of 23 blue recreation events. Visual exposure and participation in blue recreation did not differ by ethnicity, weight status, household deprivation, or residential proximity to the coastline. Significant differences in both visual exposure to blue space and participation in blue recreation were observed, whereby children from the most deprived schools had significantly higher rates of blue space exposure than children from low deprivation schools. Schools may be important settings to promote equitable blue space exposures. Childhood exposures to blue space may not follow the expected income inequality trends observed among adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber L Pearson
- Department of Geography, Environment & Spatial Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA.
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington 6242, New Zealand.
- Environmental Science and Policy Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA.
| | - Ross Bottomley
- Department of Geography, Environment & Spatial Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA.
| | - Tim Chambers
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington 6242, New Zealand.
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Lukar Thornton
- School of Exercise and Nutritional Science, Deakin University, Melbourne 3125, Australia
| | - James Stanley
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington 6242, New Zealand.
| | - Moira Smith
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington 6242, New Zealand.
| | - Michelle Barr
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington 6242, New Zealand.
| | - Louise Signal
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington 6242, New Zealand.
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White MP, Pahl S, Wheeler BW, Depledge MH, Fleming LE. Natural environments and subjective wellbeing: Different types of exposure are associated with different aspects of wellbeing. Health Place 2017; 45:77-84. [PMID: 28319857 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2017.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2016] [Revised: 01/30/2017] [Accepted: 03/09/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Despite growing interest in the relationships between natural environments and subjective wellbeing (SWB), previous studies have various methodological and theoretical limitations. Focusing on urban/peri-urban residents (n=7272) from a nationally representative survey of the English population, we explored the relationships between three types of exposure: i) 'neighbourhood exposure', ii) 'visit frequency', and iii) 'specific visit'; and four components of SWB: i) evaluative, ii) eudaimonic, iii) positive experiential and iv) negative experiential. Controlling for area and individual level socio-demographics and other aspects of SWB, visit frequency was associated with eudaimonic wellbeing and a specific visit with positive experiential wellbeing. People who visited nature regularly felt their lives were more worthwhile, and those who visited nature yesterday were happier. The magnitude of the association between weekly nature visits and eudaimonic wellbeing was similar to that between eudaimonic wellbeing and life circumstances such as marital status. Findings are relevant for policies to protect and promote public access to natural environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathew P White
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, UK.
| | - Sabine Pahl
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, UK; Department of Psychology, Plymouth University, UK
| | - Benedict W Wheeler
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, UK
| | - Michael H Depledge
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, UK
| | - Lora E Fleming
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, UK
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Völker S, Kistemann T. Developing the urban blue: Comparative health responses to blue and green urban open spaces in Germany. Health Place 2017; 35:196-205. [PMID: 25475835 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2014.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2014] [Revised: 10/24/2014] [Accepted: 10/31/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Recently, new perspectives upon healthy urban open spaces propose that open spaces can be regarded as urban green or blue spaces. However, there has so far been very little research into blue environments and their benefits for mental well-being. Our article focuses on the effects of water in cities, "urban blue" (as compared to "urban green"), on human health and well-being. To assess the mental well-being of visitors, we conducted qualitative semi-standardised interviews (n=113), asking which differences in well-being occur when visiting urban green and blue spaces in high-density areas of the inner city in Dusseldorf and Cologne, Germany. Although we found many similarities, some health-enhancing effects for users turned out to be prominent for urban blue in the four conceptual therapeutic landscape dimensions: experienced, symbolic, social and activity space. These effects include enhanced contemplation, emotional bonding, participation, and physical activity. The results suggest that urban blue as a health-promoting factor needs more detailed and accurate determination and examination of its general and local health-enhancing effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Völker
- University of Bonn, Institute for Hygiene and Public Health, Sigmund-Freud-Str. 25, 53105 Bonn, Germany.
| | - Thomas Kistemann
- University of Bonn, Institute for Hygiene and Public Health, Sigmund-Freud-Str. 25, 53105 Bonn, Germany
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de Vries S, Ten Have M, van Dorsselaer S, van Wezep M, Hermans T, de Graaf R. Local availability of green and blue space and prevalence of common mental disorders in the Netherlands. BJPsych Open 2016; 2:366-372. [PMID: 29018562 PMCID: PMC5609776 DOI: 10.1192/bjpo.bp.115.002469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2015] [Revised: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 11/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies revealed a relationship between residential green space availability and health, especially mental health. Studies on blue space are scarcer and results less conclusive. AIMS To investigate the hypotheses that green and blue space availability are negatively associated with anxiety and mood disorders, and positively associated with self-reported mental and general health. METHOD Health data were derived from a nationally representative survey (NEMESIS-2, n=6621), using a diagnostic interview to assess disorders. Green and blue space availability were expressed as percentages of the area within 1 km from one's home. RESULTS The hypotheses were confirmed, except for green space and mood disorders. Associations were generally stronger for blue space than for green space, with ORs up to 0.74 for a 10%-point increase. CONCLUSIONS Despite the different survey design and health measures, the results largely replicate those of previous studies on green space. Blue space availability deserves more systematic attention. DECLARATION OF INTEREST None. COPYRIGHT AND USAGE © The Royal College of Psychiatrists 2016. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Non-Commercial, No Derivatives (CC BY-NC-ND) license.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sjerp de Vries
- , PhD, Environmental Research (Alterra), Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Margreet Ten Have
- , PhD, Netherlands Institute of Mental Health and Addiction (Trimbos Institute), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia van Dorsselaer
- , MSc, Netherlands Institute of Mental Health and Addiction (Trimbos Institute), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Manja van Wezep
- , MSc, Netherlands Institute of Mental Health and Addiction (Trimbos Institute), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Tia Hermans
- , MSc, Environmental Research (Alterra), Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Ron de Graaf
- , PhD, Netherlands Institute of Mental Health and Addiction (Trimbos Institute), Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Beyer KMM, Szabo A, Nattinger AB. Time Spent Outdoors, Depressive Symptoms, and Variation by Race and Ethnicity. Am J Prev Med 2016; 51:281-90. [PMID: 27320702 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2016.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2015] [Revised: 04/21/2016] [Accepted: 05/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Numerous studies have explored neighborhood environmental correlates of mental illnesses, presuming that the time individuals spend in their environment can confer benefit or harm based on environmental characteristics. However, few population-based studies have directly examined the relationship between time spent outdoors and mental health, and little work has been done to explore how experiences differ by race and ethnicity. Though some have proposed "doses of outdoor time" to improve health, the absence of information about the benefits conferred by particular "doses," and expected baseline levels of outdoor time, are needed to inform the development of recommendations and interventions. METHODS This study examined the relationship between time spent outdoors and depression among a population-based sample of American adults, characterized current levels of time spent outdoors by race and ethnicity, and examined how the relationship between time spent outdoors and depression varies by race and ethnicity. Descriptive statistics and survey regression models were used to examine data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey for 2009-2012. RESULTS Findings provide evidence that time spent outdoors is associated with fewer depressive symptoms, but this benefit may not be equally distributed by race and ethnicity. Descriptive analyses also reveal differences in time spent outdoors among different racial and ethnic groups. CONCLUSIONS Study findings support the notion that increasing time spent outdoors may result in mental health benefits. However, this study questions whether that benefit is experienced equally among different groups, particularly given differences in occupational experiences and environmental characteristics of neighborhoods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten M M Beyer
- Division of Epidemiology and Center for Patient Care and Outcomes Research, Institute for Health and Society, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
| | - Aniko Szabo
- Division of Biostatistics, Institute for Health and Society, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Ann B Nattinger
- Department of Medicine and Center for Patient Care and Outcomes Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
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125
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Exploring the relationship between childhood obesity and proximity to the coast: A rural/urban perspective. Health Place 2016; 40:129-36. [DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2016.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2015] [Revised: 05/20/2016] [Accepted: 05/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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126
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Residential exposure to visible blue space (but not green space) associated with lower psychological distress in a capital city. Health Place 2016; 39:70-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2016.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 182] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2015] [Revised: 02/08/2016] [Accepted: 03/03/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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127
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128
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Garrett N, Smith M, Schluter PJ, Bollard-Breen B. Coastal Accessibility and Availability for Physical Activity: A Cross-Sectional Assessment in New Zealand Adults. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.4236/ojpm.2016.612025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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129
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Addressing "Nature-Deficit Disorder": A Mixed Methods Pilot Study of Young Adults Attending a Wilderness Camp. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2015; 2015:651827. [PMID: 26788110 PMCID: PMC4695668 DOI: 10.1155/2015/651827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2015] [Revised: 11/10/2015] [Accepted: 11/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives. Rapid urbanization raises concern about chronic human health issues along with less frequent interaction with the natural world. "Nature-deficit disorder," a nonclinical term, describes this potential impact on the well-being of youth. We conducted a mixed methods pilot study of young adults attending a four-week wilderness camp to investigate whether nature-based camp experiences would increase connection to nature and promote multiple dimensions of well-being. Methods. Participants completed precamp (n = 46) and postcamp (n = 36) online questionnaires including nature-related and holistic well-being measures. Differences were investigated using paired t-tests. Interviews (n = 16) explored camp experiences and social relations. Results. All nature-related measures-exposure, knowledge, skills, willingness to lead, perceived safety, sense of place, and nature connection-significantly increased. Well-being outcomes also significantly improved, including perceived stress, relaxation, positive and negative emotions, sense of wholeness, and transcendence. Physical activity and psychological measures showed no change. Interviews described how the wilderness environment facilitated social connections. Conclusion. Findings illustrate the change in nature relations and well-being that wilderness camp experiences can provide. Results can guide future research agendas and suggest that nature immersion experiences could address the risk of "nature-deficit disorder," improve health, and prepare future environmental leaders.
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130
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White MP, Pahl S, Ashbullby KJ, Burton F, Depledge MH. The Effects of Exercising in Different Natural Environments on Psycho-Physiological Outcomes in Post-Menopausal Women: A Simulation Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2015; 12:11929-53. [PMID: 26404351 PMCID: PMC4586716 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph120911929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2015] [Accepted: 09/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The current study examined potential psycho-physiological benefits from exercising in simulated natural environments among a sample of post-menopausal women using a laboratory based protocol. Participants cycled on a stationary exercise bike for 15 min while facing either a blank wall (Control) or while watching one of three videos: Urban (Grey), Countryside (Green), Coast (Blue). Blood pressure, heart rate and affective responses were measured pre-post. Heart rate, affect, perceived exertion and time perception were also measured at 5, 10 and 15 min during exercise. Experience evaluation was measured at the end. Replicating most earlier findings, affective, but not physiological, outcomes were more positive for exercise in the simulated Green and, for the first time, Blue environment, compared to Control. Moreover, only the simulated Blue environment was associated with shorter perceived exercise duration than Control and participants were most willing to repeat exercise in the Blue setting. The current research extended earlier work by exploring the effects of “blue exercise” and by using a demographic with relatively low average levels of physical activity. That this sample of postmenopausal women were most willing to repeat a bout of exercise in a simulated Blue environment may be important for physical activity promotion in this cohort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathew P White
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Knowledge Spa, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro, TR1 3 HD, UK.
| | - Sabine Pahl
- Department of Psychology, Plymouth University, Plymouth, PL4 8AA, UK.
| | - Katherine J Ashbullby
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Knowledge Spa, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro, TR1 3 HD, UK.
- Department of Psychology, Plymouth University, Plymouth, PL4 8AA, UK.
| | - Francesca Burton
- Department of Psychology, Plymouth University, Plymouth, PL4 8AA, UK.
| | - Michael H Depledge
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Knowledge Spa, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro, TR1 3 HD, UK.
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131
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Foley R. Swimming in Ireland: Immersions in therapeutic blue space. Health Place 2015; 35:218-25. [DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2014.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2014] [Revised: 09/22/2014] [Accepted: 09/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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132
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Grigsby-Toussaint DS, Turi KN, Krupa M, Williams NJ, Pandi-Perumal SR, Jean-Louis G. Sleep insufficiency and the natural environment: Results from the US Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System survey. Prev Med 2015; 78:78-84. [PMID: 26193624 PMCID: PMC4818157 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2015.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2015] [Revised: 06/19/2015] [Accepted: 07/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to the natural environment may improve health behaviors and mental health outcomes such as increased levels of physical activity and lower levels of depression associated with sleep quality. Little is known about the relationship between insufficient sleep and the natural environment. PURPOSE To determine whether exposure to attributes of the natural environment (e.g., greenspace) attenuates the likelihood of reporting insufficient sleep among US adults. METHODS Multiple logistic regression models were used to explore the association between self-reported days of insufficient sleep (in the past 30days) and access to the natural environment in a multi-ethnic, nationally representative sample (n=255,171) of US adults ≥18years of age enrolled in the 2010 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. RESULTS Using 1-to-6days of insufficient sleep as the referent group for all analyses, lower odds of exposure to natural amenities were observed for individuals reporting 21-to-29days (OR=0.843, 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.747, 0.951) of insufficient sleep. In stratified analyses, statistically significant lower odds of exposure to natural amenities were found among men reporting 7-to-13-days (OR=0.911, 95% CI=0.857, 0.968), 21-to-29-days (OR=0.838, 95% CI=0.759, 0.924), and 30-days (OR=0.860, 95% CI=0.784, 0.943) of insufficient sleep. Greenspace access was also protective against insufficient sleep for men and individuals aged 65+. CONCLUSIONS In a representative sample of US adults, access to the natural environment attenuated the likelihood of reporting insufficient sleep, particularly among men. Additional studies are needed to examine the impact of natural environment exposure on sleep insufficiency across various socio-demographic groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana S Grigsby-Toussaint
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, United States; Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States; Bouve College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States.
| | - Kedir N Turi
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, United States
| | - Mark Krupa
- Department of Geography, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, United States
| | - Natasha J Williams
- Center for Healthful Behavioral Change, Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Seithikurippu R Pandi-Perumal
- Center for Healthful Behavioral Change, Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Girardin Jean-Louis
- Center for Healthful Behavioral Change, Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
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133
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Bell SL, Phoenix C, Lovell R, Wheeler BW. Seeking everyday wellbeing: The coast as a therapeutic landscape. Soc Sci Med 2015; 142:56-67. [PMID: 26284745 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2015.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2015] [Revised: 06/15/2015] [Accepted: 08/10/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Recent research suggests coastal environments may promote human health and wellbeing. This article explores the diverse coastal experiences sought out by residents of two towns in south west England to promote and preserve their personal wellbeing in the context of their everyday lives. It draws on the findings of an in-depth interpretive study conducted from May to November 2013 that examined the relative contribution of varied green and blue space experiences to individual wellbeing through the life course. Personalised activity maps produced using accelerometer and Global Positioning System (GPS) data were used to guide in-depth geo-narrative interviews with a purposive sample of 33 participants. This was combined with a subset of nine case study go-along interviews in places deemed therapeutic by the participants themselves, offering deeper insight into the lived experiences and relationships playing out within such places. Situated in a novel adaptation of the therapeutic landscapes framework, this article explores how symbolic, achievement-oriented, immersive and social experiences contributed to participants' sense of wellbeing in their local coastal areas. Participants expressed particularly strong and often enduring connections to the local coastline, with different coastal stretches perceived to cater for varied therapeutic needs and interests, at multiple scales and intensities. The findings suggest the need for greater acknowledgement of people's emotional, deeply embodied and often shared connections to the coast within coastal management policy and practice, both nationally and internationally. Importantly, such efforts should recognise the fluid, dynamic nature of this land-sea boundary, and the valued therapeutic experiences linked to this fluidity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah L Bell
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Knowledge Spa, Truro, Treliske, TR1 3HD, United Kingdom.
| | - Cassandra Phoenix
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Knowledge Spa, Truro, Treliske, TR1 3HD, United Kingdom.
| | - Rebecca Lovell
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Knowledge Spa, Truro, Treliske, TR1 3HD, United Kingdom.
| | - Benedict W Wheeler
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Knowledge Spa, Truro, Treliske, TR1 3HD, United Kingdom.
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134
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Foley R, Kistemann T. Blue space geographies: Enabling health in place. Health Place 2015; 35:157-65. [PMID: 26238330 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2015.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2015] [Revised: 07/13/2015] [Accepted: 07/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Drawing from research on therapeutic landscapes and relationships between environment, health and wellbeing, we propose the idea of 'healthy blue space' as an important new development Complementing research on healthy green space, blue space is defined as; 'health-enabling places and spaces, where water is at the centre of a range of environments with identifiable potential for the promotion of human wellbeing'. Using theoretical ideas from emotional and relational geographies and critical understandings of salutogenesis, the value of blue space to health and wellbeing is recognised and evaluated. Six individual papers from five different countries consider how health can be enabled in mixed blue space settings. Four sub-themes; embodiment, inter-subjectivity, activity and meaning, document multiple experiences within a range of healthy blue spaces. Finally, we suggest a considerable research agenda - theoretical, methodological and applied - for future work within different forms of blue space. All are suggested as having public health policy relevance in social and public space.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronan Foley
- Department of Geography, Maynooth University, Rhetoric House, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, Ireland.
| | - Thomas Kistemann
- University of Bonn, Institute for Hygiene and Public Health, Sigmund-Freud-Straße 25, 53105 Bonn, Germany
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135
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Elliott LR, White MP, Taylor AH, Herbert S. Energy expenditure on recreational visits to different natural environments. Soc Sci Med 2015; 139:53-60. [PMID: 26151390 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2015.06.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2015] [Revised: 05/15/2015] [Accepted: 06/29/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Physical inactivity poses a significant challenge to physical and mental health. Environmental approaches to tackle physical inactivity have identified natural environments as potentially important public health resources. Despite this, little is known about characteristics of the activity involved when individuals visit different types of natural environment. Using Natural England's Monitor of Engagement with the Natural Environment Survey, we examined 71,603 English respondents' recreational visits to natural environments in the past week. Specifically, we examined the intensity of the activities they undertook on the visits (METs), the duration of their visit, and the associated total energy expenditure (MET minutes). Visits to countryside and urban greenspace environments were associated with more intense activities than visits to coastal environments. However, visits to coastal environments were associated with the most energy expenditure overall due to their relatively long duration. Results differed by the urbanity or rurality of the respondent's residence and also how far respondents travelled to their destination. Knowledge of what types of natural environment afford the highest volumes and intensities of physical activity could inform landscape architecture and exercise prescriptions. Isolating activity-supporting characteristics of natural environments that can be translated into urban design is important in providing physical activity opportunities for those less able to access expansive environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lewis R Elliott
- Psychology Applied to Health Group, University of Exeter Medical School, United Kingdom.
| | - Mathew P White
- Psychology Applied to Health Group, University of Exeter Medical School, United Kingdom; European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, United Kingdom
| | - Adrian H Taylor
- Peninsula Schools of Medicine and Dentistry, Plymouth University, United Kingdom
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136
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Moore MN. Do airborne biogenic chemicals interact with the PI3K/Akt/mTOR cell signalling pathway to benefit human health and wellbeing in rural and coastal environments? ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2015; 140:65-75. [PMID: 25825132 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2015.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2015] [Accepted: 03/17/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Living and taking recreation in rural and coastal environments promote health and wellbeing, although the causal factors involved are unclear. It has been proposed that such environments provide a counter to the stresses of everyday living, leading to enhanced mental and physical health. Living in natural environments will result in airborne exposure to a wide range of biogenic chemicals through inhalation and ingestion of airborne microbiota and particles. The "biogenics" hypothesis formulated here is that regular exposure to low concentrations of mixtures of natural compounds and toxins in natural environments confers pleiotropic health benefits by inhibiting the activities of interconnected cell signalling systems, particularly PI3K/Akt/mTORC1. When overactive, Akt and mTOR (mTORC1) can lead to many pathological processes including cancers, diabetes, inflammation, immunosuppression, and neurodegenerative diseases. There is a substantial body of evidence that many natural products (i.e., from bacteria, algae, fungi and higher plants) inhibit the activities of these protein kinases. Other mTOR-related interconnected metabolic control "switches" (e.g., PTEN & NF-κB), autophagy and other cytoprotective processes are also affected by natural products. The "biogenics" hypothesis formulated here is that regular intermittent exposure to a mixture of airborne biogenic compounds in natural environments confers pleiotropic health benefits by inhibiting activities of the highly interconnected PI3K/Akt/mTORC1 system. It is proposed that future experimental exposures to biogenic aerosols in animal models coupled with epidemiology, should target the activities of the various kinases in the PI3K/Akt/mTORC1 systems and related physiological processes for selected urban, rural and coastal populations in order to test this hypothesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael N Moore
- European Centre for Environment & Human Health (ECEHH), University of Exeter Medical School, Knowledge Spa, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro, Cornwall TR1 3HD, UK; Department of Science and Innovative Technology (DSIT), University of Eastern Piedmont, Alessandria, Italy; Plymouth Marine Laboratory (PML), Prospect Place, The Hoe, Plymouth PL1 3DH, UK; School of Biological Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake's Circus, Plymouth PL4 8DD, UK.
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137
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Therapeutic landscapes and wellbeing in later life: Impacts of blue and green spaces for older adults. Health Place 2015; 34:97-106. [DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2015.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 209] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2014] [Revised: 03/27/2015] [Accepted: 05/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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138
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Wheeler BW, Lovell R, Higgins SL, White MP, Alcock I, Osborne NJ, Husk K, Sabel CE, Depledge MH. Beyond greenspace: an ecological study of population general health and indicators of natural environment type and quality. Int J Health Geogr 2015; 14:17. [PMID: 25924685 PMCID: PMC4455695 DOI: 10.1186/s12942-015-0009-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2015] [Accepted: 03/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Many studies suggest that exposure to natural environments (‘greenspace’) enhances human health and wellbeing. Benefits potentially arise via several mechanisms including stress reduction, opportunity and motivation for physical activity, and reduced air pollution exposure. However, the evidence is mixed and sometimes inconclusive. One explanation may be that “greenspace” is typically treated as a homogenous environment type. However, recent research has revealed that different types and qualities of natural environments may influence health and wellbeing to different extents. Methods This ecological study explores this issue further using data on land cover type, bird species richness, water quality and protected or designated status to create small-area environmental indicators across Great Britain. Associations between these indicators and age/sex standardised prevalence of both good and bad health from the 2011 Census were assessed using linear regression models. Models were adjusted for indicators of socio-economic deprivation and rurality, and also investigated effect modification by these contextual characteristics. Results Positive associations were observed between good health prevalence and the density of the greenspace types, “broadleaf woodland”, “arable and horticulture”, “improved grassland”, “saltwater” and “coastal”, after adjusting for potential confounders. Inverse associations with bad health prevalence were observed for the same greenspace types, with the exception of “saltwater”. Land cover diversity and density of protected/designated areas were also associated with good and bad health in the predicted manner. Bird species richness (an indicator of local biodiversity) was only associated with good health prevalence. Surface water quality, an indicator of general local environmental condition, was associated with good and bad health prevalence contrary to the manner expected, with poorer water quality associated with better population health. Effect modification by income deprivation and urban/rural status was observed for several of the indicators. Conclusions The findings indicate that the type, quality and context of ‘greenspace’ should be considered in the assessment of relationships between greenspace and human health and wellbeing. Opportunities exist to further integrate approaches from ecosystem services and public health perspectives to maximise opportunities to inform policies for health and environmental improvement and protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedict W Wheeler
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Truro Campus, Knowledge Spa, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro, Cornwall, TR1 3HD, UK.
| | - Rebecca Lovell
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Truro Campus, Knowledge Spa, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro, Cornwall, TR1 3HD, UK.
| | - Sahran L Higgins
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Truro Campus, Knowledge Spa, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro, Cornwall, TR1 3HD, UK.
| | - Mathew P White
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Truro Campus, Knowledge Spa, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro, Cornwall, TR1 3HD, UK.
| | - Ian Alcock
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Truro Campus, Knowledge Spa, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro, Cornwall, TR1 3HD, UK.
| | - Nicholas J Osborne
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Truro Campus, Knowledge Spa, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro, Cornwall, TR1 3HD, UK. .,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Flemington Road, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Kerryn Husk
- NIHR CLAHRC South West Peninsula (PenCLAHRC), Plymouth University Peninsula Schools of Medicine and Dentistry, N32, ITTC Building, Tamar Science Park, Plymouth, PL6 8BX, UK.
| | - Clive E Sabel
- School of Geographical Sciences, University of Bristol, University Road, Bristol, BS8 1SS, UK.
| | - Michael H Depledge
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Truro Campus, Knowledge Spa, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro, Cornwall, TR1 3HD, UK.
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139
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Mental health benefits of long-term exposure to residential green and blue spaces: a systematic review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2015; 12:4354-79. [PMID: 25913182 PMCID: PMC4410252 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph120404354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 486] [Impact Index Per Article: 54.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2015] [Revised: 04/08/2015] [Accepted: 04/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Many studies conducted during the last decade suggest the mental health benefits of green and blue spaces. We aimed to systematically review the available literature on the long-term mental health benefits of residential green and blue spaces by including studies that used standardized tools or objective measures of both the exposures and the outcomes of interest. We followed the PRISMA statement guidelines for reporting systematic reviews and meta-analysis. In total 28 studies were included in the systematic review. We found limited evidence for a causal relationship between surrounding greenness and mental health in adults, whereas the evidence was inadequate in children. The evidence was also inadequate for the other exposures evaluated (access to green spaces, quality of green spaces, and blue spaces) in both adults and children. The main limitation was the limited number of studies, together with the heterogeneity regarding exposure assessment. Given the increase in mental health problems and the current rapid urbanization worldwide, results of the present systematic review should be taken into account in future urban planning. However, further research is needed to provide more consistent evidence and more detailed information on the mechanisms and the characteristics of the green and blue spaces that promote better mental health. We provide recommendations for future studies in order to provide consistent and evidence-based recommendations for policy makers.
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140
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Triguero-Mas M, Dadvand P, Cirach M, Martínez D, Medina A, Mompart A, Basagaña X, Gražulevičienė R, Nieuwenhuijsen MJ. Natural outdoor environments and mental and physical health: relationships and mechanisms. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2015; 77:35-41. [PMID: 25638643 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2015.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 276] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2014] [Revised: 01/19/2015] [Accepted: 01/22/2015] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence is growing for the beneficial impacts of natural outdoor environments on health. However, most of the evidence has focused on green spaces and little evidence is available on health benefits of blue spaces and about possible mediators and modifiers of such impacts. We investigated the association between natural outdoor environments (separately for green and blue spaces) and health (general and mental) and its possible mediators and modifiers. METHODS Cross-sectional data from adults interviewed in Catalonia (Spain) between 2010 and 2012 as part of the Catalonia Health Survey were used. The collected data included sociodemographic characteristics, self-perceived general health, mental health, physical activity and social support. Indicators of surrounding greenness and access to natural outdoor environments within 300 m of the residence and degree of urbanization were derived for residential addresses. Associations were estimated using logistic regression and negative binominal models. RESULTS Green spaces were associated with better self-perceived general health and better mental health, independent of degree of urbanization. The associations were more consistent for surrounding greenness than for access to green spaces. The results were consistent for different buffers, and when stratifying for socioeconomic status. Slightly stronger associations were found for women and residents of non-densely populated areas. No association was found between green spaces and social contacts and physical activity. The results for blue spaces were not conclusive. CONCLUSION Green spaces are associated with better general and mental health across strata of urbanization, socioeconomic status, and genders. Mechanisms other than physical activity or social support may explain these associations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margarita Triguero-Mas
- Centre for Research in Environmental Epidemiology (CREAL), Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain; CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Payam Dadvand
- Centre for Research in Environmental Epidemiology (CREAL), Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain; CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Cirach
- Centre for Research in Environmental Epidemiology (CREAL), Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain; CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Barcelona, Spain
| | - David Martínez
- Centre for Research in Environmental Epidemiology (CREAL), Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain; CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Antonia Medina
- Departament de Salut de la Generalitat de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Mompart
- Institut d'Estadísitca de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Xavier Basagaña
- Centre for Research in Environmental Epidemiology (CREAL), Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain; CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Mark J Nieuwenhuijsen
- Centre for Research in Environmental Epidemiology (CREAL), Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain; CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Barcelona, Spain
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141
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Cherrie MPC, Wheeler BW, White MP, Sarran CE, Osborne NJ. Coastal climate is associated with elevated solar irradiance and higher 25(OH)D level. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2015; 77:76-84. [PMID: 25660687 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2015.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2014] [Revised: 01/07/2015] [Accepted: 01/08/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is evidence that populations living close to the coast have improved health and wellbeing. Coastal environments are linked to promotion of physical activity through provision of safe, opportune, aesthetic and accessible spaces for recreation. Exposure to coastal environments may also reduce stress and induce positive mood. We hypothesised that coastal climate may influence the vitamin D status of residents and thus partly explain benefits to health. MATERIALS AND METHODS Ecological and cross-sectional analyses were designed to elucidate the connection between coastal residence and vitamin D status. We divided residential data, from developed land use areas and the Lower Super Output Areas or Data Zones (Scotland) of the 1958 Birth Cohort participants, into the following coastal bands: <1 km, 1-5 km, 5-20 km, 20-50 km and over 50 km. In the ecological analysis we used a multiple regression model to describe the relationship between UV vitd and coastal proximity adjusted for latitude. Subsequently, using the residential information of the participants of the 1958 Birth Cohort we developed a multiple regression model to understand the relationship between serum 25(OH)D (a marker of vitamin D status) and coastal proximity adjusted for several factors related to vitamin D status (e.g. diet, outdoor activity). RESULTS We found that coastal proximity was associated with solar irradiance; on average a 99.6 (96.1-103.3)J/m(2)/day regression coefficient was recorded for settlements <1 km from the coast compared with those at >50 km. This relationship was modified by latitude with settlements at a lower latitude exhibiting a greater effect. Individuals living closer to the coast in England had higher vitamin D levels than those inland, particularly in autumn. CONCLUSION Geographic location may influence biochemistry and health outcomes due to environmental factors. This can provide benefits in terms of vitamin D status but may also pose a risk due to higher skin cancer risk. We provide further evidence in support of the claim that coastal environments can provide opportunities for health and wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- M P C Cherrie
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Knowledge Spa, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro TR1 3HD, United Kingdom
| | - B W Wheeler
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Knowledge Spa, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro TR1 3HD, United Kingdom
| | - M P White
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Knowledge Spa, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro TR1 3HD, United Kingdom
| | - C E Sarran
- Met Office, Fitzroy Road, Exeter, Devon, EX1 3PB, United Kingdom
| | - N J Osborne
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Knowledge Spa, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro TR1 3HD, United Kingdom; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Flemington Road, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia.
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142
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Pretty J, Barton J, Bharucha ZP, Bragg R, Pencheon D, Wood C, Depledge MH. Improving health and well-being independently of GDP: dividends of greener and prosocial economies. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2015; 26:11-36. [PMID: 25670173 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2015.1007841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Increases in gross domestic product (GDP) beyond a threshold of basic needs do not lead to further increases in well-being. An explanation is that material consumption (MC) also results in negative health externalities. We assess how these externalities influence six factors critical for well-being: (i) healthy food; (ii) active body; (iii) healthy mind; (iv) community links; (v) contact with nature; and (vi) attachment to possessions. If environmentally sustainable consumption (ESC) were increasingly substituted for MC, thus improving well-being and stocks of natural and social capital, and sustainable behaviours involving non-material consumption (SBs-NMC) became more prevalent, then well-being would increase regardless of levels of GDP. In the UK, the individualised annual health costs of negative consumption externalities (NCEs) currently amount to £62 billion for the National Health Service, and £184 billion for the economy (for mental ill-health, dementia, obesity, physical inactivity, diabetes, loneliness and cardiovascular disease). A dividend is available if substitution by ESC and SBs-NMC could limit the prevalence of these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jules Pretty
- a Department of Biological Sciences and Essex Sustainability Institute , University of Essex , Colchester , UK
| | - Jo Barton
- a Department of Biological Sciences and Essex Sustainability Institute , University of Essex , Colchester , UK
| | - Zareen Pervez Bharucha
- b Department of Sociology and Essex Sustainability Institute , University of Essex , Colchester , UK
| | - Rachel Bragg
- a Department of Biological Sciences and Essex Sustainability Institute , University of Essex , Colchester , UK
| | - David Pencheon
- c Sustainable Development Unit for NHS England and Public Health England , Cambridge , UK
| | - Carly Wood
- a Department of Biological Sciences and Essex Sustainability Institute , University of Essex , Colchester , UK
| | - Michael H Depledge
- d European Centre for Environment and Human Health , University of Exeter Medical School , Exeter , UK
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143
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Cohen-Cline H, Turkheimer E, Duncan GE. Access to green space, physical activity and mental health: a twin study. J Epidemiol Community Health 2015; 69:523-9. [PMID: 25631858 DOI: 10.1136/jech-2014-204667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 151] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2014] [Accepted: 12/29/2014] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increasing global urbanisation has resulted in a greater proportion of the world's population becoming exposed to risk factors unique to urban areas, and understanding these effects on public health is essential. The aim of this study was to examine the association between access to green space and mental health among adult twin pairs. METHODS We used a multilevel random intercept model of same-sex twin pairs (4338 individuals) from the community-based University of Washington Twin Registry to analyse the association between access to green space, as measured by the Normalised Difference Vegetation Index and self-reported depression, stress, and anxiety. The main parameter of interest was the within-pair effect for identical (monozygotic, MZ) twins because it was not subject to confounding by genetic or shared childhood environment factors. Models were adjusted for income, physical activity, neighbourhood deprivation and population density. RESULTS When treating twins as individuals and not as members of a twin pair, green space was significantly inversely associated with each mental health outcome. The association with depression remained significant in the within-pair MZ univariate and adjusted models; however, there was no within-pair MZ effect for stress or anxiety among the models adjusted for income and physical activity. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that greater access to green space is associated with less depression, but provide less evidence for effects on stress or anxiety. Understanding the mechanisms linking neighbourhood characteristics to mental health has important public health implications. Future studies should combine twin designs and longitudinal data to strengthen causal inference.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Cohen-Cline
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Eric Turkheimer
- Department of Psychology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Glen E Duncan
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Washington; and Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Nutritional Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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144
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Caddick N, Smith B, Phoenix C. The effects of surfing and the natural environment on the well-being of combat veterans. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2015; 25:76-86. [PMID: 25189537 DOI: 10.1177/1049732314549477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Although researchers have identified the benefits of physical activity on well-being, there is little evidence concerning the effects of nature-based physical activity. We investigated the effect of one nature-based activity-surfing-on the well-being of combat veterans experiencing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). We conducted interviews and participant observations with a group of combat veterans belonging to a United Kingdom-based veterans' surfing charity. Our primary analytical approach was dialogical narrative analysis. Based on our rigorous analysis and findings, we suggest that surfing facilitated a sense of respite from PTSD. Respite was a fully embodied feeling of release from suffering that was cultivated through surfing and shaped by the stories veterans told of their experiences. We significantly extend previous knowledge on physical activity, combat veterans, and PTSD by highlighting how nature-based physical activity, encapsulated in the conceptual notion of the "blue gym," can promote well-being among combat veterans.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Brett Smith
- Loughborough University, Loughborough, United Kingdom
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145
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Marselle MR, Irvine KN, Lorenzo-Arribas A, Warber SL. Moving beyond green: exploring the relationship of environment type and indicators of perceived environmental quality on emotional well-being following group walks. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2014; 12:106-30. [PMID: 25546275 PMCID: PMC4306852 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph120100106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2014] [Accepted: 12/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Against the backdrop of increasing interest in the relationship between Nature and health, this study examined the effect of perceived environment type and indicators of perceived environmental quality on short-term emotional well-being following outdoor group walks. Participants (n = 127) of a national group walk program completed pre- and post-walk questionnaires for each walk attended (n = 1009) within a 13-week study period. Multilevel linear modelling was used to examine the main and moderation effects. To isolate the environmental from the physical activity elements, analyses controlled for walk duration and perceived intensity. Analyses revealed that perceived restorativeness and perceived walk intensity predicted greater positive affect and happiness following an outdoor group walk. Perceived restorativeness and perceived bird biodiversity predicted post-walk negative affect. Perceived restorativeness moderated the relationship between perceived naturalness and positive affect. Results suggest that restorative quality of an environment may be an important element for enhancing well-being, and that perceived restorativeness and naturalness of an environment may interact to amplify positive affect. These findings highlight the importance of further research on the contribution of environment type and quality on well-being, and the need to control for effects of physical activity in green exercise research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa R Marselle
- Department of Psychology, Edge Hill University, St. Helens Road, Ormskirk, L39 4QP, UK.
| | - Katherine N Irvine
- Social, Economic and Geographical Sciences Research Group, The James Hutton Institute, Craigiebuckler, Aberdeen, AB15 8QH, UK.
| | - Altea Lorenzo-Arribas
- BioSS-Biomathematics and Statistics Scotland, Craigiebuckler, Aberdeen, AB15 8QH, UK.
| | - Sara L Warber
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA.
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146
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Coastal proximity and physical activity: Is the coast an under-appreciated public health resource? Prev Med 2014; 69:135-40. [PMID: 25284259 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2014.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2014] [Revised: 08/01/2014] [Accepted: 09/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent findings suggest that individuals living near the coast are healthier than those living inland. Here we investigated whether this may be related to higher levels of physical activity among coastal dwellers in England, arising in part as a result of more visits to outdoor coastal settings. METHOD Participants (n=183,755) were drawn from Natural England's Monitor of Engagement with the Natural Environment Survey (2009-2012). Analyses were based on self-reported physical activity for leisure and transport. RESULTS A small, but significant coastal proximity gradient was seen for the likelihood of achieving recommended guidelines of physical activity a week after adjusting for relevant area and individual level controls. This effect was statistically mediated by the likelihood of having visited the coast in the last seven days. Stratification by region, however, suggested that while the main effect was relatively strong for west coast regions, it was not significant for those in the east. CONCLUSIONS In general, our findings replicate and extend work from Australia and New Zealand. Further work is needed to explain the marked regional differences in the relationship between coastal proximity and physical activity in England to better understand the coast's potential role as a public health resource.
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147
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Fleming LE, McDonough N, Austen M, Mee L, Moore M, Hess P, Depledge MH, White M, Philippart K, Bradbrook P, Smalley A. Oceans and Human Health: a rising tide of challenges and opportunities for Europe. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2014; 99:16-9. [PMID: 25081849 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2014.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2014] [Accepted: 05/25/2014] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The European Marine Board recently published a position paper on linking oceans and human health as a strategic research priority for Europe. With this position paper as a reference, the March 2014 Cornwall Oceans and Human Health Workshop brought together key scientists, policy makers, funders, business, and non governmental organisations from Europe and the US to review the recent interdisciplinary and cutting edge research in oceans and human health specifically the growing evidence of the impacts of oceans and seas on human health and wellbeing (and the effects of humans on the oceans). These impacts are a complex mixture of negative influences (e.g. from climate change and extreme weather to harmful algal blooms and chemical pollution) and beneficial factors (e.g. from natural products including seafood to marine renewable energy and wellbeing from interactions with coastal environments). Integrated approaches across disciplines, institutions, and nations in science and policy are needed to protect both the oceans and human health and wellbeing now and in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- L E Fleming
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, The University of Exeter Medical School, Truro, Cornwall TR1 3AE, UK. http://www.ecehh.org
| | - N McDonough
- European Marine Board, 8400 Oostende, Belgium.
| | - M Austen
- Plymouth Marine Laboratory (PML), Plymouth PL1 3DH, UK.
| | - L Mee
- Scottish Association for Marine Sciences (SAMS), Oban PA37 1QA, Scotland, UK.
| | - M Moore
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, The University of Exeter Medical School, Truro, Cornwall TR1 3AE, UK; Plymouth Marine Laboratory (PML), Plymouth PL1 3DH, UK.
| | - P Hess
- Institut Francais de Recherche Pour L'exploitation de la Mer (IFREMER), Nantes, CEDEX 03, France.
| | - M H Depledge
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, The University of Exeter Medical School, Truro, Cornwall TR1 3AE, UK.
| | - M White
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, The University of Exeter Medical School, Truro, Cornwall TR1 3AE, UK.
| | - K Philippart
- Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, Landsdiep 4, 1797 SZ 't Horntje, Den Hoorn, Texel, The Netherlands.
| | - P Bradbrook
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, The University of Exeter Medical School, Truro, Cornwall TR1 3AE, UK.
| | - A Smalley
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, The University of Exeter Medical School, Truro, Cornwall TR1 3AE, UK.
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148
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Clark NE, Lovell R, Wheeler BW, Higgins SL, Depledge MH, Norris K. Biodiversity, cultural pathways, and human health: a framework. Trends Ecol Evol 2014; 29:198-204. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2014.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2013] [Revised: 12/15/2013] [Accepted: 01/23/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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149
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Tanja-Dijkstra K, Pahl S, P. White M, Andrade J, Qian C, Bruce M, May J, Moles DR. Improving dental experiences by using virtual reality distraction: a simulation study. PLoS One 2014; 9:e91276. [PMID: 24621518 PMCID: PMC3951355 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0091276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2013] [Accepted: 02/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Dental anxiety creates significant problems for both patients and the dental profession. Some distraction interventions are already used by healthcare professionals to help patients cope with unpleasant procedures. The present study is novel because it a) builds on evidence that natural scenery is beneficial for patients, and b) uses a Virtual Reality (VR) representation of nature to distract participants. Extending previous work that has investigated pain and anxiety during treatment, c) we also consider the longer term effects in terms of more positive memories of the treatment, building on a cognitive theory of memory (Elaborated Intrusions). Participants (n = 69) took part in a simulated dental experience and were randomly assigned to one of three VR conditions (active vs. passive vs. control). In addition, participants were distinguished into high and low dentally anxious according to a median split resulting in a 3×2 between-subjects design. VR distraction in a simulated dental context affected memories a week later. The VR distraction had effects not only on concurrent experiences, such as perceived control, but longitudinally upon the vividness of memories after the dental experience had ended. Participants with higher dental anxiety (for whom the dental procedures were presumably more aversive) showed a greater reduction in memory vividness than lower dental-anxiety participants. This study thus suggests that VR distractions can be considered as a relevant intervention for cycles of care in which people’s previous experiences affect their behaviour for future events.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sabine Pahl
- School of Psychology, Plymouth University, Plymouth, United Kingdom
| | - Mathew P. White
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Truro, United Kingdom
| | - Jackie Andrade
- School of Psychology, Plymouth University, Plymouth, United Kingdom
| | - Cheng Qian
- School of Electronic, Electrical, and Computer Engineering, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Malcolm Bruce
- Plymouth University Peninsula Schools of Medicine and Dentistry, Plymouth, United Kingdom
| | - Jon May
- School of Psychology, Plymouth University, Plymouth, United Kingdom
| | - David R. Moles
- Plymouth University Peninsula Schools of Medicine and Dentistry, Plymouth, United Kingdom
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150
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Data mashups: potential contribution to decision support on climate change and health. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2014; 11:1725-46. [PMID: 24499879 PMCID: PMC3945564 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph110201725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2013] [Revised: 01/16/2014] [Accepted: 01/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Linking environmental, socioeconomic and health datasets provides new insights into the potential associations between climate change and human health and wellbeing, and underpins the development of decision support tools that will promote resilience to climate change, and thus enable more effective adaptation. This paper outlines the challenges and opportunities presented by advances in data collection, storage, analysis, and access, particularly focusing on “data mashups”. These data mashups are integrations of different types and sources of data, frequently using open application programming interfaces and data sources, to produce enriched results that were not necessarily the original reason for assembling the raw source data. As an illustration of this potential, this paper describes a recently funded initiative to create such a facility in the UK for use in decision support around climate change and health, and provides examples of suitable sources of data and the purposes to which they can be directed, particularly for policy makers and public health decision makers.
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