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We hear a lot about air pollution and its effects on our health- especially in Utah during the winter time.  However, did you know that NOISE pollution can be just as dangerous and most people aren’t aware it even exists!

Harmful Effects of Noise Pollution

Noise pollution (sometimes called sound pollution) refers to excessive or harmful levels of noise in the environment which according to the World Health Organization (WHO, 2018) “interferes with normal activities such as sleeping, conversation, and working, and can contribute to adverse health effects.” 

WHO also states that noise pollution is linked to several health issues including cardiovascular diseases, hearing loss, and sleep disturbances. Another study by Stansfeld and Matheson (2003) suggests that noise pollution is also related to increased stress, anxiety and depression, and may also have effects on cognitive performance.  Even more frightening are the findings of another 2005 study by Stansfield et al. showing that excessive noise pollution can impair children’s learning abilities and academic performance. 

Sources of Noise Pollution

Major sources of noise pollution include:

  • Transportation: airplanes and airports, auto traffic and trains
  • Industry: Construction, factories, mining operations
  • Community Noise: Public events (festivals, parades, demonstrations), loud music, social gatherings
  • Residential Noise: Appliances, renovations, parties, pets, neighbors

Additional Health Effects of Noise Pollution

Noise pollution from the above sources has also been shown to increase and exacerbate hearing impairment. Multiple studies have shown that prolonged exposure to the above sources face heightened risk of hearing loss. Furthermore, noise exposure has also been linked to increased development  and exacerbation of tinnitus. A study by Henry (2005) highlights that tinnitus can be both a primary and secondary effect of hearing loss caused by noise pollution.

An unexpected health risk of noise pollution on sleep apnea was highlighted in a study by Halonen et al. (2012). The study found that prolonged exposure to noise increases an individual risk of sleep apnea, possibly because of the physiological stress responses triggered by chronic noise exposure. 

So What Can Be Done?

As with any social problem, finding effective solutions begins at a grassroots level. Promoting awareness of the problems experienced in each area by stakeholders in that area is a good start. Promoting urban-planning mindful of noise exposure is also key. Controlling your own contributions to the problem is always a great start– ask yourself, “What in my own environment is contributing to my own noise exposure and the exposure of others?” There are always ways we can each individually improve the situation and if every person in an area decreased their noise output even slightly, the cumulative results would be significant. Finally creative policy changes meant to decrease noise pollution and regulate the offenders is also effective. 

Working together, we can all make a difference in creating a quieter, healthier environment!

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