A comprehensive study published in Environment International highlights that access to green spaces during pregnancy and early childhood significantly reduces the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders in children.

Analyzing data from over 1.8 million mother-child pairs enrolled in Medicaid between 2001 and 2014, researchers used satellite imaging to measure green space around residential areas, finding that higher vegetation levels correlate with lower rates of disorders such as ADHD and autism, especially in urban settings.

The timing of green space exposure is crucial; exposure during preconception, prenatal, and early childhood stages offers different protective effects, including reduced risks of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), intellectual disability, and learning difficulties.

The benefits of green space exposure are particularly strong among children in urban environments and are more pronounced among Black and Hispanic populations, suggesting that increasing green space access could help reduce health disparities.

Future research aims to explore the biological and environmental mechanisms behind these benefits and assess how different types of green spaces influence neurodevelopment and long-term cognitive and behavioral health.

Lead researcher Stefania Papatheodorou emphasizes that improving access to green spaces in urban areas could support early childhood neurodevelopment and help mitigate developmental delays.

The study focused on disorders such as ADHD, ASD, and other developmental delays, with particular concern for socioeconomically disadvantaged populations.