Where we live as a risk factors for stroke
Factors like access to green spaces, urban planning that encourages physical activity and proximity to fast food outlets can all impact our lifestyles and, as a result, our overall health.
Where you live can significantly impact your risk of having a stroke. There is good evidence that, for example, the ability to walk around where we live, the mix of residential, commercial and green space, and how crowded or spread out a neighbourhood is all impact on stroke risk. The ability to be physically active is linked to lower levels of blood pressure, arteriosclerosis and major cardiovascular events, such as stroke.
Research also suggests that living in areas with easy access fast food restaurants and/or limited supermarkets may encourage people to choose unhealthy foods, which can lead to risk factors for stroke such as higher obesity and blood pressure levels1,2.
Where we live and stroke risk: Key points
While it is not always easy or possible to change your living environment, it is worth thinking about how your home might be impacting your health.
Making an active choice to walk over driving where possible and avoiding the temptation of fast food most of the time, will both contribute positively to a better lifestyle.
References
- Ka Yan Lai, Chris Webster, John EJ Gallacher, Chinmoy Sarkar, Associations of urban built environment with cardiovascular risks and mortality: a systematic review. J Urban Health. 2023. 100:745–787. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11524-023-00764-5
- Pasmore Malambo, Andre P. Kengne, Anniza De Villiers, Estelle V. Lambert, Thandi Puoane. Built environment, selected risk factors and major cardiovascular disease outcomes: a systematic review. PLoS One. 2016. Nov 23;11(11):e0166846. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0166846