It’s proven: people who live near the sea or the ocean are healthier.
- Regardless of country or income level, living near the sea is associated with better health.
- Similar health benefits are offered by lakes and swimming pools.
- “The health benefits of equal and sustainable access to our coasts should be taken into account when countries develop their marine spatial plans,” the authors say.
For several centuries, the health benefits of the sea have been known and have been studied by doctors since the 17th century in England. A new study, published in the journal Communications Earth & Environment, confirms that living near the sea is associated with better health, regardless of country or income level. To reach this conclusion, researchers from the universities of Vienna, Exeter and Birmingham interviewed more than 15,000 people from 14 European countries (Germany, Belgium, Bulgaria, Spain, France, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Norway, -Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Czech Republic and United Kingdom) and Australia.
Settle near the sea and go there regularly to live healthier
As part of the work, the participants had to answer questions about various activities offered on the coast and about their physical and mental health. According to the results, living near the sea, but above all going there regularly, allows you to be in better health. “We are also starting to enjoy the similar health benefits offered by lakes and swimming pools,” said Paula Kellett, researcher at the European Marine Board. “It is striking to see such consistent and clear trends across the 15 countries. We also demonstrate today that everyone seems to benefit from being close to the sea, not just the wealthy,” explained Sandra Geiger, lead author of the research, in a statement.
Take into account the benefits of “equal and sustainable access” to the coast
For the team, the results show the importance of giving access to the coast to as many people as possible. “The considerable health benefits of equal and sustainable access to our coasts should be taken into account when countries develop their marine spatial plans, consider future housing needs and develop transport links. public transport”, concluded Paula Kellett.