Living near parks and green spaces not only helps mitigate heat and promote biodiversity, but it also helps slow cellular aging, according to a study published in Science Advances.
People living near green areas are on average biologically two and a half years younger than others. This finding has important implications for urban planning, promoting public health, and reducing health inequalities. Previous research has linked exposure to green spaces to better cardiovascular health and lower mortality rates. The study looked at chemical changes in DNA to assess biological age and concluded that proximity to parks played a role in slowing cellular aging.
However, benefits varied between ethnic groups, highlighting the importance of other factors such as stress and the quality of green space. The researchers suggest conducting additional research to better understand the mechanisms and specific health implications.
Frank Verain
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