Book chapter
Human physical health outcomes influenced by contact with nature
Nature-Based Solutions for Cities, pp 167-191
08 Aug 2023
Abstract
In this chapter, we discuss the hypothesized causal mechanisms linking nature exposure and physical health outcomes and the current weight of the evidence for beneficial associations as assessed from published literature reviews and primary research studies. Overall, studies from epidemiology and related disciplines suggest a positive influence of contact with nature on physical health outcomes, particularly regarding all-cause mortality. However, methodological limitations of the previous studies limit any conclusions regarding causal associations between nature exposure and health. Evidence is still accumulating as to the relative strength of the several potential pathways explaining health-promoting benefits of nature-based solutions, as well as the effect modifiers to consider to optimize health benefits. Those considering nature-based solutions should remain cautious regarding presumed positive impacts to human health, and where possible should allow for evaluation to continue expanding the evidence base for future work.
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Details
- Title
- Human physical health outcomes influenced by contact with nature
- Creators
- Lilah M. BesserGina S. Lovasi
- Publication Details
- Nature-Based Solutions for Cities, pp 167-191
- Publisher
- Edward Elgar Publishing; Cheltenham, UK
- Number of pages
- 25
- Resource Type
- Book chapter
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- Urban Health Collaborative
- Other Identifier
- 991021077749304721