Scientists from the University of Mainz have confirmed the link between cardiovascular disease and traffic noise. Research published Canadian Journal of Cardiology.
The scientists reviewed the available research. More than 35 studies have confirmed the association between an increased risk of hypertension and road noise (especially at night). The results are inconsistent, so WHO considers the evidence to support this association “too unreliable”.
The strongest association was found between coronary heart disease and road noise. Many studies have shown that airplane noise can increase the chances of dying from heart disease. First of all – with coronary heart disease, heart failure, arrhythmia and myocardial infarction. The connotations were stronger for women and those living in buildings built before 1970.
Studies have shown that healthy people exposed to airplane or railroad noise at night have worsened sleep quality, elevated levels of stress hormones, and develop endothelial dysfunction – damage to the inner wall of blood vessels that increases their risk for cardiovascular disease.
Scientists believe studies are needed to assess whether traditional cardiovascular drugs (statins, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, antioxidant enzyme mimetics) or changes in the urban environment (for example, green spaces) can reduce the negative health effects of noise.