Cars killing suburban dwellers, heart foundation says
Last Updated: Thursday, February 10, 2005 | 5:25 PM ET
CBC News
The problem is that suburban and rural dwellers are much more likely to drive everywhere, and that means they have a higher chance of being obese or overweight, the health lobby group said. Excess weight increases the chance of heart problems.
- INDEPTH: Phys-ed
"The evidence is conclusive: our car-dependent habits are killing us," foundation spokesperson Dr. Anthony Graham said in a news release.
Surburban car culture can be unhealthy.
"Simply put, the suburban dream has gone sour," the foundation said in its annual report card.
For the second year in a row, it's targeting obesity. Last year, the focus was on food consumption; this year, the group is going after Canadians' reluctance to exercise.
- FROM FEB. 10, 2004: Heart foundation urges action to cut fat
The foundation's first study of urban versus non-urban living shows that car-dependent Canadians are more sedentary and at increased risk of being overweight or obese.
The group's research shows that city-dwellers are much more likely to walk or bike to work or to do their shopping.
"It kind of comes to the fact that if you're a long way form where you want to go, you're unlikely to take your bike or walk," said Dr. Todd Anderson, a cardiologist in Calgary. "You're going to take your car."
Each kilometre walked in a day reduces the risk of becoming obese by nearly five per cent, while each hour in the car increases the chance of obesity by six per cent, the foundation said.
- FROM SEPT. 10, 2003: Suburban car culture contributing to obesity: studies
- FROM SEPT. 6, 2002: One hour of exercise a day - new dietary guideline
"Research has demonstrated that routine physical activity is one factor that can be linked to the lower rate of obesity observed in major urban centres," Graham said.
The foundation advocates a minimum of 30 minutes a day of physical activity.
It called on all levels of government to put more money into projects such as walking trails and bike paths, and it asked municipalities to encourage developments where people can walk or bike to stores and other services.
