Table of contents:
- Effects of noise on the body
- Health risks of prolonged noise
- Guidelines from World Health Organization
- Urban planning and noise reduction
Effects of noise on the body
Exposure to noise triggers an automatic stress response in the human body. Even during sleep, your brain processes sounds, causing reactions like increased heart rate and stress hormone release. Hugh Davies, a researcher from the University of British Columbia, explains that this constant activation of the nervous system can lead to serious health consequences over time.
These responses are evolutionary mechanisms meant to prepare the body for fight or flight but, when activated continuously, they can have harmful effects.
Health risks of prolonged noise
Living in noisy environments increases the likelihood of developing health problems. Studies show higher rates of cardiovascular disease and diabetes in areas with persistent noise pollution. Additionally, children attending schools near airports often score lower on reading tests due to chronic exposure to noise.
Noise-related stress can exacerbate existing health conditions, particularly in urban areas with heavy traffic and industrial activities.
Guidelines from World Health Organization
The World Health Organization recommends maximum noise levels of 53 decibels during the day and 45 decibels at night. For context, a busy street typically measures around 61 decibels. Prolonged exposure to higher levels increases the risk of ischemic heart disease by raising stress hormone levels.
Adhering to these guidelines can help mitigate the health risks associated with excessive noise.
Urban planning and noise reduction
Urban design plays a critical role in managing noise pollution. Erica Walker from Brown University emphasizes that poor planning often places vulnerable communities near highways, airports, and industrial zones. Such decisions disproportionately affect low-income neighborhoods with fewer resources to advocate for change.
Experts like Tor Oiamo suggest better separation between residential areas and major noise sources, alongside improved infrastructure planning, to reduce exposure.
Noise pollution remains a significant challenge for public health and urban development. Raising awareness, implementing simple protective measures, and advocating for policy changes can help create quieter, healthier living environments.
source: CBC
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