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Study shows more benefits than risks during active travel in polluted cities
Posted on: 10/May/2016 11:08:12 AM
According to a new study, the benefits of walking and cycling are much higher than the negative effects of air pollution on health. This is true even in cities like New Delhi, which have high levels of pollution. The study was conducted by researchers at the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom. The study was published in the journal Preventive Medicine.
Say the researchers, This new evidence strengthens the case for supporting cycling even in polluted cities, an effort that in turn can help reduce vehicle emissions. Our model indicates that in London health benefits of active travel always outweigh the risk from pollution. Even in Delhi, one of the most polluted cities in the world with pollution levels ten times those in London - people would need to cycle over five hours per week before the pollution risks outweigh the health benefits.
Active travel, like walking and cycling, is an effective way to increase levels of physical activity. However, health risks due to pollution has been a concern. The researchers say, Air pollution is one of the leading environmental risk factors for people`s health. One of the main sources of air pollution in cities is transport and a shift from cars, motorbikes and buses to active travel would help to reduce emissions, However, people who walk or cycle in such environments will inhale more pollution, which could be detrimental to their health.
The study used computer simulations to compare benefits with the risks for different levels of intensity and the duration of active travel with the air pollution in different cities in the world. The study also used information from international epidemiological studies and meta-analyses. Speaking about this, the researchers said, Only 1 per cent of cities in the World Health Organisation`s Ambient Air Pollution Database had pollution levels high enough that the risks of air pollution could start to overcome the benefits of physical activity after half an hour of cycling every day.
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