A recent study conducted by researchers at The Ohio State University indicates that living near oceanic coastlines may be associated with increased life expectancy, while those residing in urban areas near larger inland bodies of water may not experience the same benefits. Published in the journal Environmental Research, the study analyzed life expectancy data from over 66,000 census tracts across the United States.
The findings revealed that individuals living within approximately 30 miles of an ocean or gulf may expect to live at least a year longer than the average life expectancy of 79 years. In contrast, urban residents near inland rivers and lakes larger than four square miles were found to have a lower life expectancy, averaging around 78 years. The researchers suggest that several factors contribute to these disparities, including milder temperatures, improved air quality, and enhanced recreational opportunities in coastal regions.
Lead researcher Jianyong "Jamie" Wu noted that coastal areas typically offer better transportation options and lower susceptibility to drought, which may also positively influence longevity. Conversely, the study highlighted challenges faced by urban populations near inland water, such as pollution, poverty, and limited opportunities for physical activity, which could adversely affect health outcomes.
The analysis also pointed out that coastal areas experience fewer extreme heat days and lower maximum temperatures compared to inland regions, potentially contributing to the observed differences in life expectancy. This study is significant as it is one of the first comprehensive examinations of the relationship between various types of "blue space" and longevity in the U.S. The researchers aim to further investigate how these findings might relate to broader trends in life expectancy within the U.S. in comparison to other affluent nations.