Urban life is often linked to stress and pollution, but a new University of Michigan study suggests more developed areas may actually reduce stroke risk. Researchers found that residents in areas with more buildings, sidewalks, and infrastructure had a 2.5% lower risk of a first-time stroke than those in less developed areas. In this Michigan News research spotlight, study author Cathy Antonakos of the U-M School of Kinesiology explains how planners can use these findings to design environments that support cardiovascular health.