According to recent research, a rise in traffic noise has been associated with a greater likelihood of developing cardiovascular diseases. The study, led by senior Professor Thomas Mnzel at the University Medical Centre Mainz in Germany, emphasizes the importance of acknowledging traffic noise as a significant risk factor for heart-related conditions. The team of international researchers conducted an extensive review of epidemiological data to establish a link between traffic noise levels and an increased risk of cardiovascular illnesses, highlighting the need for addressing noise pollution as a public health concern.
The study indicated that exposure to elevated levels of road traffic noise can contribute to a higher risk of cardiovascular damage, with increments as small as 10 decibels correlating with a 3.2% increase in the likelihood of developing heart-related conditions such as heart attacks, strokes, and diabetes. The researchers emphasized the detrimental impact of night-time traffic noise on sleep patterns, which can lead to elevated stress hormone levels in blood vessels, thereby promoting inflammation, high blood pressure, and vascular diseases. Consequently, they emphasized the urgent need for traffic noise to be officially recognized as a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases based on the strong evidence they gathered.
To address the issue of traffic noise pollution and its implications for public health, the researchers proposed various strategies that authorities can adopt. Recommendations included the installation of noise barriers along busy roads in densely populated areas to reduce noise levels by up to 10 decibels. Additionally, implementing noise-reducing asphalt in road construction projects was suggested as a method to lower noise levels by 3-6 decibels. The study also advocated for measures like controlling driving speeds, promoting the use of low-noise tires, and encouraging alternative modes of transportation such as bicycles, shared rides, and public transport to decrease urban road traffic noise. Furthermore, suggestions were made for mitigating aircraft noise through route optimization using GPS to avoid densely populated areas and implementing night-time bans on take-offs and landings to reduce air traffic noise. Maintenance improvements for railways, including brake upgrades, were also recommended to lower rail traffic noise levels and enhance public health outcomes by reducing exposure to harmful noise pollution.