Could a nature-based solution help to address cardiovascular disease? This new study that examines the associations between perceived and objective residential greenness measures and cardiovascular disease across neighborhood sociodemographic groups. In Philadelphia, the sixth largest and one of the poorest cities in the nation, a Northern Research Station scientist was part of a team that analyzed relationships among percentage vegetation cover, percentage tree canopy cover, overall greenness density, and perceived park and outdoor space access with three cardiovascular risk factors: Findings suggest that tree canopy cover and perceived park or outdoor space access are associated with improved cardiovascular health of urban area residents.

Keywords: greenspace, vegetation, urban health, cardiovascular, trees, NDVI, perceived access, socioeconomic status, race

• TAGS:
• Cardiovascular,
• Greenspace,
• NDVI,
• Perceived access,
• Race,
• Socioeconomic status,
• trees,
• Urban health,
• vegetation