A study by the University of Georgia College of Public Health found that a person’s surroundings and environment can impact their chances of getting dementia, according to a UGA press release.

The meta-analysis, a method that combines multiple studies and data, was led by Assistant Professor of Health Policy and Management Suhang Song. The research team reviewed over 70 different studies to examine the impact across several factors.

“The biggest advantage of this paper is to quantify the association between certain factors and cognitive health,” Song said in the press release. “This analysis can provide evidence for data-driven urban planning and support decision makers.”

The analysis mostly used studies that objectively measured environmental factors to try to reduce subjective biases such as perceptions of air quality, individual reports of greenspaces and an area’s beauty.

Factors such as air pollution and access to green spaces and water features play a role in the development of dementia and cognitive decline, the research found.

Living near busy roadways showed an increase of 10% risk of dementia. Noise pollution and exposure to particles emitted by vehicles and industry were both associated with a 9% increase in dementia chances.

Green and blue spaces, including natural parks, trails and access to bodies of water decreased risk by 6%. Reduced risk is also associated with a walkable environment in the community and access to nearby community centers, stores and healthcare.

“Based on these findings, we can suggest that people visit parks or forests more often and also live further from the major roads,” Song said. “Also, living in a community where there is more walkability, or being close to local amenities like bookstores, health care centers and more is helpful.”

By understanding environmental impacts on health urban planners can create better communities that foster both physical and mental health, according to Song.

It is important to quantify the links between cognitive health and certain surrounding factors. The analysis can help better inform urban planners and decision makers, Song said.

According to the press release, Song wants the study to be a stepping stone for future research and to encourage other researchers to prioritize objective measurements when studying environmental impacts on dementia and cognition.