Author ORCID Identifier
Semester
Fall
Date of Graduation
2024
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Type
PhD
College
Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design
Committee Chair
Peter Butler
Committee Member
Aaron Maxwell
Committee Member
Samuel Zizzi
Committee Member
Shan Jiang
Abstract
Green spaces are essential for our physical health. The quality of its green space often determines the health of a community. The presence of green space in our lives is associated with reduced stress levels, better sleep, and increased feelings of safety. Lack of access to green space can lead to many health issues, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, and has been linked to obesity and physical inactivity.
The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) defines Appalachia as a region covering 420 counties across 13 states in the eastern United States. A large part of this region is rural, meaning people living in these areas have limited access to green space. Rural Appalachia is one of the most impoverished regions in the United States. It has the lowest life expectancy and highest rates of chronic diseases. In rural Appalachia, there are few parks or other open spaces where people can get away from everyday life's stresses. The lack of green space and open spaces in rural Appalachia significantly contributes to health disparities. The ARC has been working for decades to improve the quality of life in Appalachia. One of the most critical factors in improving the quality of life is providing more green space.
This study will explore the potential impact that accessible green space has on health outcomes for those living in rural Appalachia. Improving accessibility to open spaces can provide health benefits such as improved physical activity (PA) and reduced obesity prevalence. This study aims to provide an evidence-based approach for assessing the physical activity needs of rural Appalachian communities. Existing barriers to green space accessibility will also be identified, from which a coordinated and integrated strategy and action plan can be developed to address the PA needs of rural Appalachian communities.
Recommended Citation
Datta, Udday Shankur, "Pathways to health: linking accessible green space to improved health and well‐being in rural Appalachia." (2024). Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports. 12650.
https://researchrepository.wvu.edu/etd/12650
Included in
Community Health and Preventive Medicine Commons, Landscape Architecture Commons, Urban, Community and Regional Planning Commons