More affordable housing, healthier hearts?

THURSDAY, September 9, 2021 (HealthDay News) – One of the keys to good health can be in the hands of those who decide zoning policies for their communities.

According to a new US study, inclusive zoning policies that provide affordable housing are associated with lower heart disease rates for those who have benefited from these homes.

“Many cities in the country are facing a serious shortage of affordable housing,” said lead author Antwan Jones, an associate professor of sociology at George Washington University in Washington, DC.

“Our study shows that inclusive zoning programs can not only help increase the supply of safe and affordable housing, but can also reduce the risk of heart disease,” Jones said in a statement to the university.

The researchers found that places that had zoning included also had fewer residents with high blood pressure and higher cholesterol than communities without these programs. Residents are less likely to take medication for high blood pressure. They are also less likely to have already developed coronary heart disease.

These policies have been linked to better cardiovascular health, even when the study controls other factors related to heart disease, such as poverty, health insurance and smoking. However, the study shows only a link and not a direct causal link.

The researchers used data from the 500 Cities project, along with zoning and demographic information. They noted that more than 880 cities and counties in 25 states have adopted zoning policies or incentive programs for entrepreneurs who have set aside part of their construction projects for low- and moderate-income families. These incentives may include tax relief and exemptions from certain provisions.

Mandatory zoning has had the greatest impact on heart health markers, the authors say in a report published Sept. 8 in Circulation.

More than 365,000 people die each year from coronary heart disease in the United States. The authors call for more research on the links between zoning and heart health, adding that this study suggests that the inclusion of zoning may address some of the complex health challenges facing struggling families.

“Stable and affordable housing in healthy communities can reduce stress and increase access to fresh produce, parks, jobs, safe streets and other amenities that help people stay healthy,” said co-author Gregory Squires, a professor of sociology and public relations. politics at university.

More info

The American Heart Association has more information on heart health.

SOURCE: George Washington University, news release, September 8, 2021.