A new study revealed a significant association between aircraft noise exposure and higher body mass index among women. The study, which analyzed data from nearly 75,000 female participants living around 90 major airports in the U.S., suggests that chronic exposure to aircraft noise may contribute to increased obesity risk.
Key Findings
The study, published in Environment International, assessed aircraft noise exposure levels and body mass index (BMI) data from two cohorts of the Nurses' Health Study (NHS and NHSII). Researchers found that women exposed to aircraft noise levels at or above 45 decibels (dB) were more likely to have higher BMIs. The most pronounced associations were observed at noise levels of 55 dB or higher, with these women showing a 15% higher likelihood of being in the highest BMI category.
Methodology
The researchers used data from biennial surveys conducted between 1994 and 2017, which included self-reported BMI and other individual characteristics. Aircraft noise exposure was estimated based on day-night average sound levels (DNL) at participants' residential addresses. The study adjusted for various factors, including individual demographics, neighborhood socioeconomic status, environmental noise, and population density.
Regional and Lifestyle Variations
The study found stronger associations between aircraft noise and higher BMI among participants living in the western U.S. and arid climate regions. Former smokers also showed a more significant association between noise exposure and increased BMI.
Aircraft noise has been known to disturb sleep and elevate stress responses, which can contribute to weight gain. These findings highlight the importance of considering environmental factors in obesity and related health outcomes.
Implications for Public Health
The study highlighted the need for further research on the health impacts of aircraft noise, particularly in diverse populations. The participants in the NHS cohorts were primarily White and of mid-level socioeconomic status, suggesting a need to explore these associations in more varied demographic groups.
Policies aimed at reducing noise exposure around airports could have significant public health benefits by addressing environmental noise and reducing obesity risk, thereby improving overall health outcomes.
Conclusion
This study added to the growing body of evidence linking environmental noise to adverse health effects, including obesity. By identifying a clear association between aircraft noise exposure and higher BMI, the researchers hope to inform public health policies and encourage further investigation into the broader impacts of environmental noise on health.
Declaration of competing interest can be found in the study.
