Airports! Study claims aircraft noise is associated with serious heart problems

Living near major airports may be more dangerous than you might think. Studies suggest that exposure to constant aircraft noise is associated with a significant increase in the risk of serious heart problems.

People who live near large airports face higher risks of developing serious heart problems due to constant exposure to noise aircraft.

A study led by researchers from University College London (UCL), published in the respected Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC), revealed how constant noise can alter the structure and function of the heart, especially at night.

The research, which looked at more than 3.600 individuals in areas surrounding Heathrow, Gatwick, Birmingham and Manchester airports, identified serious cardiovascular changes including muscle stiffness and reduced heart efficiency.

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Airport-related heart problems

The results show that excessive aircraft noise is directly linked to changes in the structure of the heart.

Individuals who lived in areas with high noise levels had thicker, stiffer heart muscles, making it difficult to contract and expand the muscles needed to pump blood efficiently.

These changes increase the chances of serious heart diseases, such as heart attacks, arrhythmias and even strokes.

Nocturnal exposure to noise has been identified as the main harmful factor. During the night, the human body has a greater need for rest, but noise directly interferes with sleep and increases stress levels.

Previous studies have linked noise exposure to hypertension and obesity, but this research provides concrete data on structural changes in the heart.

Dr Cristian Topriceanu, from UCL’s Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, highlighted that the impact of noise on the heart is multifaceted, affecting both physical and mental health. “The results indicate a clear relationship between noise exposure and cardiac changes, even when other risk factors are controlled.”, said the researcher.

The effects of nighttime noise

One of the most worrying findings was the impact of nighttime noise, which directly affects the quality of sleep, which is essential for the body's recovery.

According to Dr Gaby Captur, a cardiologist at the Royal Free Hospital and senior author of the study, sleep disruption stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, which is known to activate the “luta or fugto ".

This can lead to spikes in blood pressure, increased release of the stress hormone (cortisol) and worsening inflammation in the body.

"While our study is observational and does not prove causality, it adds to a growing body of evidence about the harmful impact of noise on human health. The changes we observed in the heart are consistent with problems that increase the risk of serious events such as heart attacks and strokes.”, explained Dr. Captur.

Professor Anna Hansell from the University of Leicester, who was also involved in the study, highlighted the importance of addressing night-time aircraft noise as a public health issue.

"Noise-related heart abnormalities can have long-lasting effects, putting millions of people at risk. Disrupted sleep, combined with high noise levels, is one of the main factors that worsen cardiovascular health.”, He highlighted.

Alarming data on exposure

According to the study, about 8% of participants lived in areas with high levels of daytime noise, while 3% faced the same problem at night.

To measure noise levels, researchers used data from the UK Civil Aviation Authority, which considers high noise to be any exposure above 50 decibels during the day and 45 decibels at night.

These values are above the limits recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), which suggests maximum levels of 45 decibels during the day and 40 decibels at night.

The health impact, however, is not limited to those living near airports. The researchers also looked at a larger sample of more than 21 people to investigate how heart abnormalities similar to those found in the study could increase the risk of serious events.

They concluded that individuals with these alterations may be up to four times more likely to suffer heart attacks, serious arrhythmias or strokes.

Previous studies, conducted by the University of Leicester, estimated that 5% of the adult population in England are exposed to noise levels above the recommended limit. This equates to millions of people living in conditions that could seriously harm their health in the long term.

Noise, stress and cardiovascular health

The impact of noise goes beyond sleep disruptions. Constant and unpredictable noise, such as that from aircraft, triggers chronic stress responses that affect the entire body. Overactivation of the sympathetic nervous system not only raises blood pressure, but also contributes to inflammation, weight gain and atherosclerosis – the buildup of fatty plaques in the arteries, a key factor in cardiovascular disease.

About 25% to 50% of the link between aircraft noise and heart problems can be attributed to increased body mass index (BMI) among exposed participants, while up to 36% is linked to high blood pressure.

These factors, combined with sleep deprivation, create a worrying picture for those living near busy airports.

Furthermore, aircraft noise is considered more irritating than highway or railway noise due to its unpredictability and variable intensity. This characteristic makes it difficult for the body to adapt and amplifies the negative effects on health.

Call for concrete actions

The study authors emphasized the need for immediate action to reduce noise levels in residential areas near airports.

Dr. Captur stressed that joint efforts between governments and the aviation industry are essential to mitigate the impacts of noise.Millions of people are exposed to unnecessary health risks. We need more effective public policies to limit noise exposure and protect the quality of life of these communities.”, he warned.

Professor James Leiper, from the British Heart Foundation, praised the research for shedding light on a little-discussed issue.Most of us associate planes with travel and leisure, but for those who live near major airports, the impact on health can be devastating. This study is an important reminder that noise can be just as harmful as other forms of pollution.”, He stated.

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Airports! Study claims aircraft noise is linked to serious heart problems