New research indicates a significant link between the presence of visible greenspace and improved cardiovascular health among midlife women. A study published in July 2025 in Biology of Sex Differences by Rifas-Shiman et al. found that greater exposure to greenery, even when viewed from street level, correlates with better heart health metrics.
As urban areas expand, natural environments within cities are diminishing, potentially posing risks to public health. This is particularly concerning for women in midlife, a demographic experiencing a higher incidence of cardiovascular disease. The study highlights greenspace as a crucial protective factor against cardiovascular decline during this critical life stage.
The research utilized the American Heart Association's Life's Essential 8 framework, a comprehensive assessment of key cardiovascular health factors including diet, physical activity, sleep, blood pressure, and more. By analyzing street-view imagery, researchers quantified the visibility of greenspace around participants' homes and its impact on these health indicators.
Findings revealed that women with more visible greenery in their surroundings exhibited superior cardiovascular health across several measures. Specifically, a higher percentage of trees in streetscapes was associated with better scores in diet, physical activity, sleep, body mass index, and blood glucose levels. These results suggest that increasing trees and greenery in neighborhoods could serve as a potent public health strategy to enhance heart health.
Beyond direct physiological impacts, the study suggests that viewing natural environments can also reduce stress and encourage healthier lifestyle choices, reinforcing the vital role of accessible greenspaces in fostering both physical vitality and mental resilience. Urban planning that prioritizes the integration of natural elements is therefore essential for improving overall community well-being, especially for women navigating midlife health transitions.
The research further supports the idea that increasing trees in neighborhoods is a valuable public health strategy for improving multiple metrics of cardiovascular health, offering a tangible pathway toward better heart health outcomes.