New research from the University of Louisville suggests that living in neighborhoods with lots of trees may lower the risk of heart disease. The Green Heart Louisville Project’s HEAL study, which followed residents of South Louisville, found that those who lived in neighborhoods with twice as many trees and shrubs had lower levels of a blood marker linked to heart disease, diabetes and cancer.

The study planted over 8,000 trees and shrubs in selected neighborhoods from 2019 to 2022 and compared health data before and after planting. Among residents in greener areas, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels fell by 13%, a benefit comparable to starting regular physical activity.

Researchers believe trees help by cooling the environment, reducing noise and filtering air pollution. The study highlights the importance of equitable distribution of green space in urban areas to promote public health.

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