Feeling Safe in Your Neighborhood Linked to Lower Risk of Premature Death
According to a recent study published at the ESC Congress 2023, feeling safe in your neighborhood is associated with a lower risk of premature death. The research, which involved more than 35,000 adults, revealed that individuals who felt protected from crime had a 9% lower risk of early death and a 6% lower chance of experiencing a heart attack. The findings shed light on the crucial role that our environment plays in our overall health and well-being.
The study, conducted by Dr. Mengya Li of the National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases in Beijing, China, used data from the PURE-China study. The research team examined the relationship between neighborhood characteristics, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and mortality. The study participants consisted of 35,730 adults aged between 35 and 70 from various communities in China.
To assess the neighborhood environment, trained researchers conducted face-to-face interviews using the Neighbourhood Environment Walkability Scale (NEWS). The questionnaire consisted of eight subscales, including factors such as proximity to shops, transport, and parks, perceived ease of walking, infrastructure for walking/cycling, safety from crime, and community satisfaction.
During a follow-up period of approximately 11.7 years, the researchers observed 2,034 all-cause deaths, 765 of which were attributed to CVD, and 3,042 major CVD events. The results showed that a higher neighborhood environment score was associated with a 6% lower risk of major CVD events and all-cause mortality. Additionally, participants living in safer neighborhoods experienced a 9% lower risk of death, a 10% reduced risk of CVD-related death, a 3% decreased likelihood of major CVDs, a 6% reduced risk of heart attack, and a 10% lower chance of heart failure.
The study highlights the significance of a safe and supportive neighborhood environment for promoting heart health and longevity. It emphasizes the need for various aspects such as safety, access to amenities, cleanliness, and community satisfaction. Dr. Li suggests that policymakers should take action to improve community conditions, including enhancing local amenities and transport connectivity, providing green spaces and street lighting, and building paths for walking, running, and cycling.
While the percentage reductions in risk may appear small, the cumulative impact can be substantial when considering the large number of individuals affected. These findings have significant implications for public health and can help guide decision-making to create healthier and safer living environments.
In conclusion, feeling safe in your neighborhood is not only essential for peace of mind but also has tangible health benefits. The study demonstrates that individuals who perceive their neighborhoods as safe have a lower risk of premature death and are less likely to experience heart-related issues. By prioritizing community safety and investing in neighborhood improvements, policymakers can contribute to better health outcomes for their residents.
