TORONTO, Ont. – New immigrants in the city’s low-income neighbourhoods are at greater risk to develop diabetes compared to residents in “walkable” neighbourhoods, according to a new study.

The study by St. Michael’s Hospital found residents in areas more walking-friendly were less at risk to develop diabetes.

The risk is greater for newcomers living in Toronto’s low-income areas with few amenities within a 10 minute walk, lower residential density and poorly-connected streets.

Lead researcher Dr. Gillian Booth said previous studies have examined the link between walkable neighbourhoods and health, but the study is the first to explore the risk of developing diabetes.

She added that the findings emphasize the importance of neighbourhood planning in urban areas.