Are environmental characteristics associated with hypertension and diabetes? Evidence from Ordos, China

Abstract

Abstract Although previous studies have explored the positive effects of natural environments on human health, few studies have examined the effects of different environmental characteristics on hypertension and diabetes. We aimed to identify a correlation between various environmental characteristics and the number of patients with hypertension and diabetes using the Delphi method, Pearson analysis, and a multiple regression model. The prevalence of hypertension and diabetes was significantly correlated with environmental characteristics, and correlated characteristics of hypertension and diabetes were identified. Future hypertension and diabetes-friendly environments should improve green space coverage and quality, and provide environments to support more physical activity as well as the opportunity to be exposed to natural elements.