Approved Research

Associations between natural and built environmental factors and chronic health conditions in a large-scale cohort in the United Kingdom

Lay summary

Aim

This study aims to investigate the main and joint health effects of natural and built environmental factors on chronic health conditions in UK. The effect modifications by policy interventions and lifestyle will also be examined.

Scientific rationale

Both climate change and air pollution are the top leading risk factors for death and disease burden in the world. However, studies on the health effects of other natural and built environmental factors are limited and their potential pathways are inconclusive. This proposed study will depict the dose-response associations between natural/built environmental factors and chronic health conditions, and the potential thresholds might be observed. In addition, this study will identify the potential vulnerable population and laid a solid foundation for relevant targeted polices. The joint effects of natural and built environments will be further examined. Therefore, this project was proposed to expand previous studies by examining the health effects of comprehensive natural and built environmental factors and further exploring the potential vulnerable population.

Project duration

This project is expected to be completed within 36 months.

Public health impact

Due to rapid urbanization, the global burden of chronic diseases keeps increasing in past decades. This trend has brought substantial challenges to sustainable development. A few epidemiological studies have found closed associations between natural and built environmental factors and human health. However, the research findings remain insufficient and inconclusive. Hence, this proposed project will fill the gap in the diverse health effects of natural and built environmental factors and reveal their potential pathways. This project will also identify the vulnerable population, which provides scientific evidence for authorities to impose targeted polices and guidelines. The results findings will further unveil the interactions and joint health effects of natural and built environments. The research findings will provide robust and valuable evidence for urban managers to plan a strategic and healthy environment. In addition, this project will provide guidance for general population to develop a healthier lifestyle to promote their physical and mental health. Overall, this project will have significant implications for authorities to promote the improvement of public health, to develop healthy cities, and further to achieve the goal of sustainable development.