The study followed more than 25,000 adults across the United States. It found a 2.5% lower risk of a first-time stroke in areas with higher development compared with less developed areas.
Researchers used data from REGARDS and satellite images to measure development around homes in 5-mile (8-km) road areas. The lower stroke risk remained after they adjusted for age, race, sex and health conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
Difficult words
- stroke — sudden medical problem when blood flow stops
- development — amount of buildings, roads and local infrastructure
- satellite — a machine in space that takes pictures
- risk — chance that something bad may happen
- adjust — change numbers to remove other effectsadjusted
- diabetes — long-term disease that changes blood sugar
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you think living in a more developed area can change people’s health? Why or why not?
- What things near your home (like roads or parks) might help reduce health risks?
- Are there local services where you live for diabetes or high blood pressure care?
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