Physical activity in nature helps to prevent several diseases

New research from the University of Exeter found that taking part in physical activity outside in nature prevents 13,000 cases of non-communicable diseases per year in England which can save treatment costs of more than £100m.

The research focused on natural environments like open spaces in towns and cities, parks, beaches, coastlines and the countryside. Using data including a representative cross-sectional survey of the English population the researchers were able to estimate how many cases of 6 non-communicable diseases which included heart disease, ischemic stroke, colon cancer, breast cancer, type 2 diabetes and major depressive disorder are prevented through nature based recreational physical activity.