Database research record2014·United States
Policy Statement 20137: Improving Health and Wellness through Access to Nature — American Public Health Association
Louise Chawla
Children Youth and Environments
Urban Farm DB summary
In 2013, the American Public Health Association issued a policy statement on "Improving Health and Wellness through Access to Nature." The statement reviews extensive evidence that contact with nature is a health-promoting experience in itself. Access to green spaces is associated with lower rates of heart disease, stroke, obesity, stress, and depression, as well as improved endocrine and immune system function, with low-income groups showing particularly significant benefits in reducing health disparities.