Noise and air pollution can impact heart health, raise blood pressure, according to new research.
A study published in March in the journal JACC Advances Studies have shown that noise in heavy traffic is associated with an increased risk of high blood pressure, a risk factor for heart attack and stroke. The conclusion was drawn from an analysis of data on nearly 250.000 people from the British Biobank, aged between 40 and 69, who did not have high blood pressure.
In the study, the scientists estimated the amount of road traffic noise based on residential address and a general noise assessment method developed by the European Commission. They followed the participants for an average of 8,1 years, then found more than 21.000 people with high blood pressure. In particular, people living near road traffic noise are at high risk.
The scientists also found that the greater the amount of road noise, the greater the risk. People exposed to air pollution and traffic noise have the highest risk of high blood pressure. This conclusion held true even though people were adjusted for their exposure to air pollution, including fine dust and nitrogen dioxide.
Noise puts stress on the body, leading to increased blood pressure and risk of heart disease. Image: Freepik
"In theory, this relationship makes sense because noise or pollution can increase stress on the body, causing increased blood pressure," said Dr. Jim Liu at Ohio State University in Columbus (who was not involved in the study).
According to the researchers, the new findings can be used to support public health measures when it is confirmed that road traffic noise is harmful to body blood pressure. In the European Society of Cardiology Guidelines 2021, the authors also suggest that environmental exposure, including above-threshold noise levels, is likely to increase the risk of heart disease. The reason is that long-term high blood pressure damages organs, including the heart, brain, kidneys, and eyes.
Before scientists come up with stronger evidence, Dr. Liu said, people can use a number of measures to reduce the effects of traffic noise. People should choose a place away from noise, increase soundproofing materials or wear hearing protection, such as earplugs. Some electronic devices also offer active noise cancellation. In the house, people can use curtains, add furniture, seal the door slots to prevent sound from entering the living space.
Chile (Follow Everyday Health, CNN)
