A new study from Northwestern University finds that living near urban green spaces (like parks and forests) and blue spaces (like rivers and shorelines) is linked to a lower risk of coronary artery calcification (CAC) in middle age. CAC is an early sign of heart disease. The benefits are especially strong for Black people and those in poorer neighborhoods.

The study followed 2,960 Black and white adults from Birmingham, Chicago, Minneapolis, and Oakland over 25 years. It found that Black participants with the best access to rivers had a 32% lower chance of developing CAC than those with the least access. Similarly, Black participants with more green space nearby had up to a 35% lower chance of having CAC. Each 10% increase in green space access reduced the odds of CAC by 15% on average.

Access to nature

“Access to urban blue and green spaces can protect against heart disease, especially for underserved groups at higher risk,” the researchers said. The findings support policies to improve the quality and accessibility of these spaces, aiming to boost public health and reduce health disparities.

Green and blue spaces encourage physical activity, social interaction, stress relief, and relaxation, all of which are good for heart health. They also boost the immune system, reduce chronic inflammation, and slow aging, which benefits overall health.

However, the study also found that in poorer neighborhoods, living closer to parks was linked to a higher risk of CAC. People with the best park access had a 29% higher chance of having CAC. This might be because poor park conditions and safety concerns discourage their use.

“The results suggest the need for better maintenance and safety of parks in underserved neighborhoods,” the authors concluded. “More research is needed to understand the full impact of urban natural environments on health.”