How to protect yourself from a stroke: the place of residence that reduces the risk of a dangerous condition by 16%

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The place where a person lives affects both his psyche and the health of the body in general. A recent study showed that the risk of ischemic stroke is 16% lower in people who live near parks, squares and other places with a large concentration of trees.

Experts studied the impact on human health of three atmospheric pollutants associated with road traffic. Among them are small solid particles, nitrogen dioxide and soot. Their stay in the air within 300 meters of a residential building was considered. The data of more than 3.5 million people living in the Spanish Catalonia were also analyzed. They are over 18 years of age and have not experienced a stroke prior to the start of the study.

As a result, it was concluded that the more pollution, the higher the risk of ischemic stroke. This is the most common type of impaired blood circulation in the brain.

Researchers found that with an increase in the air content of each of the three pollutants, the probability of a dangerous condition in a person increases by several percent. At the same time, the indicators do not depend on other socio-economic factors, age and smoking.

“Unlike other air pollutants, which have different sources, nitrogen dioxide mainly arises as a result of road traffic. Therefore, if we really want to reduce the numerous risks that this pollutant poses to people's health, we need to take bold measures to reduce the use of cars,” said Catherine Tonn, one of the authors of the study.

On the contrary, the presence abundant green spaces no further than 300 meters from the house directly reduces the risk of stroke by 16%. Therefore, experts suggest that moving to a “greener” area can be one of the ways to protect against a stroke. In addition, it is believed that the influence of trees, shrubs and other vegetation reduces stress, improves mood and physical activity.