Perception of safety is a prerequisite for the association between neighbourhood green qualities and physical activity: Results from a cross-sectional study in Sweden

Abstract

In this study, we assess how the Scania Green Score (SGS5), and the five distinct perceived neighbourhood green dimensions within this area-aggregated index (1 km(2) squares), is associated with self-reported physical activity and general health, and if perceived safety and social coherence has a moderating effect. Two independent surveys, both conducted in Scania, Sweden, was used for data on SGS5 and health outcomes (N=28 198 and N=23 693), respectively. SGS5 was more clearly associated with physical activity (OR 1.06; 95% CI 1.02-1.10) than with general health (OR 1.02; 95% CI 1.00-1.04). This association was moderated by safety (p for interaction < 0.001); SGS5 was positively associated with physical activity only among individuals who perceived high safety in their neighbourhood (OR 1.07; 95% CI 1.02-1.11). No moderating effect was seen for social coherence. Among specific dimensions, cultural history was positively associated with both physical activity and general health. Our results suggest that perception of safety is a prerequisite for the positive effects of neighbourhood green qualities.

Keywords

Green quality; Green space; Physical activity; General health; Neighbourhood safety; Neighbourhood social coherence

Published in

Health and Place
2017, volume: 45, pages: 124-130

SLU Authors

• Van Den Bosch, Matilda

  • Department of People and Society, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
    
  • Lund University
  • University of British Columbia

• Skärbäck, Erik

  • Department of Landscape Architecture, Planning and Management, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
    

• Grahn, Patrik

  • Department of People and Society, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
    

Global goals (SDG)

SDG3 Good health and well-being

UKÄ Subject classification

Public Health, Global Health and Social Medicine
Epidemiology

Publication identifier

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.healthplace.2017.03.011

Permanent link to this page (URI)

https://res.slu.se/id/publ/82487