272585 Health benefits of nature contact: A review of current evidence

Tuesday, October 30, 2012 : 8:30 AM - 8:50 AM

Howard Frumkin, MD, DrPH , School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
        
A growing body of scientific evidence suggests that nature contact provides health benefits (broadly defined) across the life span. This evidence may be classified according to the form of nature contact: animal contact, plant contact, viewing nature, and entering wilderness. This presentation will review available evidence, suggesting what conclusions may now be drawn and identifying data gaps that need to be filled. It will then discuss the implications of this evidence for public health policy and programs.

Learning Areas:
Administer health education strategies, interventions and programs
Chronic disease management and prevention
Clinical medicine applied in public health
Environmental health sciences
Implementation of health education strategies, interventions and programs
Planning of health education strategies, interventions, and programs

Learning Objectives:
1. Describe at least two categories of health benefits related to nature contact 2. Explain at least two scientific study designs that document the health benefits of nature contact 3. Name at least two interventions that promote public health via nature contact

Keywords: Environmental Health, Pediatrics

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: I am Dean, and Professor of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, at the University of Washington School of Public Health. I am also an internist, environmental and occupational medicine specialist, and epidemiologist, who has worked in academia and public service. I have published extensively on the health benefits of nature.
Any relevant financial relationships? No

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.

Back to: 4024.0: Wellness through nature: Connection across the lifespan