Greening South Asian cities for health: a study of urban green space usage and physical well-being

In South Asia, there is a rising prevalence of chronic diseases. Yet, there is a dearth of evidence regarding the relationship between green spaces and physical health in South Asian countries. This study seeks to address this gap by examining how behaviors related to the usage of urban green spaces (UGS), such as frequency and duration of usage, as well as the intensity of activities conducted within UGS, impact individuals' self-perceived positive effects on physical health. Additionally, the study explores the influence of socio-demographic characteristics on these perceptions and the nature of the positive impact on physical health. A cross-sectional survey involving 384 UGS users from two urban green communities in Rawalpindi City, Pakistan, was conducted. Descriptive and categorical regression analysis (CATREG) techniques were employed for data analysis. The findings reveal a positive association between the frequency of UGS usage and various aspects of physical health, including cardiovascular, respiratory, and nervous system health. Moreover, the duration of UGS usage was found to affect digestive and musculoskeletal health, while the intensity of activity within UGS was linked to improvements in all studied components of physical health. Additionally, individuals' education levels significantly influenced their perceptions of the health benefits derived from UGS usage. Commonly reported physical health benefits from UGS usage include enhanced breathing, relief from digestive issues, and decreased cardiovascular risk factors. The implications of these findings extend to a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including policymakers, clinicians, health professionals, health educators, environmental activists, companies, organizations, and landscape planners.