If current global trends are correct, approximately 41 million people will die from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) (such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, and severe mental illness) by 2025. This represents approximately 74% of all deaths worldwide. Despite significant advances in medicine over the past few decades, the number of deaths from NCDs continues to rise.
One of the main drivers of NCD growth is urbanization. Studies clearly show that people living in urban areas without access to green spaces have higher rates of NCDs. These trends are extremely worrying given that by 2050, two out of three people are likely to live in cities.
However, a number of recent population-level studies of cities around the world have shown that people living in green areas not only have lower rates of NCDs but also significantly better physical and mental health. It shows that there is. This relationship remains statistically strong regardless of an individual’s socio-economic status, age, or gender. In fact, the evidence for this link is so strong that in 2022, 196 countries of the United Nations Conference of the Parties on Biological Diversity signed an international treaty, in part to significantly increase urban green space by 2030. It included a promise to increase.
Why do green spaces offer resistance to NCDs? Increased opportunities for exercise, cleaner air, and reduced heat stress have all been touted as reasons why green spaces offer resistance to NCDs. There is also evidence supporting the role of urban vegetation.
Importantly, there is also solid scientific evidence that when we interact directly with nature, it triggers biochemical pathways within our bodies that have significant beneficial effects on our health. This research topic began with a group of Japanese scientists trying to uncover the true benefits of forest bathing.forest bathing. The evidence they found is so convincing that in Japan, certain NCD patients are now prescribed sitting in the forest instead of medication.
The good news is that urban green spaces and indoor vegetation can provide similar health benefits. Clinical experiments have shown that something as simple as placing a vase of unscented roses on your desk can significantly lower blood pressure and provide physiological and psychological calm. The same goes for leafy plants in your home or office, especially those with green or yellow leaves.
