Greenspace and intestinal diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Gastroenterology
• Public Health

Background:

• Greenspace benefits for intestinal diseases are suggested but controversial.
• Existing research shows diversity in assessment methods and population groups, with publication bias concerns.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide reliable evidence on the association between greenspace exposure and intestinal disorders.
• To systematically review and meta-analyze existing studies on greenspace and gut health.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review and meta-analysis of nine and eight studies, respectively.
• Greenspace exposure assessed using Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and residential proximity.
• Integrated land-use and satellite image data for comprehensive assessment.

Main Results:

• Significant protective effects of greenspace against Crohn's disease (CD) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
• Potentially protective effect of greenspace against diarrhea.
• No significant association found for ulcerative colitis (UC) or colorectal cancer (CRC).

Conclusions:

• Greenspaces demonstrate a protective effect on specific intestinal conditions like CD and IBD.
• Potential mechanisms include improved air quality, enhanced microbial diversity, and reduced stress.
• Findings support developing healthier urban environments for intestinal disease prevention and treatment.