Here are some more talking points from PeopleforBikes to share with friends and neighbors as you spread your love of bicycling.
People living in bike-friendly communities tend to have better health outcomes due to increased physical activity, improved cardiovascular health, and reduced stress levels.
A 2015 Columbia University study showed that New York City’s $10 million investment in bike and pedestrian improvements resulted in an estimated societal health savings benefit of $230 million. Put another way, every $1,300 New York City invested in building bike lanes provided benefits equivalent to one additional year of life at full health over the lifetime of all city residents.
According to the British Medical Journal, regular bicycling is associated with a 41% decrease in the risk of death from any cause, a 45% decrease in the risk of cancer, and a 46% decrease in the risk of heart disease.
The benefits don’t stop there: a PLOS Medicine study showed that people who began bicycling regularly after age 50 saw a 20% decrease in the risk of Type II Diabetes.
FABB has made the point for years that more biking equals better health, fewer doctor visits, and savings for everyone. Won’t you join us in advocating to public officials the benefits of policy changes to increase Fairfax County’s bicycle-friendliness?
Have questions or want to learn more? Contact us at [email protected].
