(NewsNation) — A new study from the University of Georgia College of Public Health suggests that where you live can change your chances of developing dementia.
The study, published March 5, was led by assistant professor of Health Policy and Management Suhang Song. It shows that factors such as air pollution or access to green or blue spaces can affect a person’s odds of cognitive decline and developing dementia.
“These numbers show that living in a dementia-friendly environment is important to delay or prevent cognitive decline and the onset of dementia,” Song said.
The research involved 54 studies in a “systematic review” and 21 in “meta-analysis,” according to the University of Georgia. This allowed researchers to quantify the impact of many different factors.
Environmental factors could affect dementia chances
The study found that if you live near major roadways, you could have about a 10% higher risk of developing dementia. Exposure to specific matter in the air that is typically caused by vehicles or industrial emissions was also associated with a 9% increased risk.
The study also showed that nitrous oxide caused a 10% higher risk, and noise pollution caused a 9% higher risk.
However, if you live near green and blue spaces, which include natural parks and bodies of water, your risk is reduced by 6%. Walkability in a city also reduces dementia risk.
“Based on these findings, we can suggest that people visit parks or forests more often and also live further from the major roads,” Song said. “Also, living in a community where there is more walkability, or being close to local amenities like bookstores, health care centers and more is helpful.”
Urban planning should be improved
Song said the data from the study could help with urban planning efforts to create communities that “foster cognitive health.”
“The biggest advantage of this paper is to quantify the association between certain factors and cognitive health,” Song said. “This analysis can provide evidence for data-driven urban planning and support decision-makers.”