Study: Stroke Risk Could Possibly be Linked to Soil Characteristics

USDA researchers may have found a link between soil characteristics and stroke risk. A study in several South Carolina counties with the 10 highest stroke rates showed that people living in an area with a soil depth to water table from 20-59 inches had a higher stroke mortality rate. The same held true for moderately well-drained to poorly drained soils and strongly acidic soils found in the region’s Coastal Plains. By contrast, the stroke rate was lower in areas of well-drained soils and soils with a depth to water table below 79 inches. Scientists believe microbes in the soil, or a lack thereof, could be contributing to these incidents and affecting human health. Learn more.