A study conducted at Imperial College London found an increase in cardiovascular disease among residents of areas adjacent to Heathrow Airport.
She explained that people who live near airports may be at a higher risk of heart attacks and related health problems.
A study by Imperial College London analyzed hospitalizations due to cardiovascular disease among residents whose homes are on the flight path of Heathrow Airport.
Evidence of “slightly increased risk” was found for people who had heard louder sounds the previous night. Men over 65 are especially affected.
Researchers said airplane noise interferes with sleep and increases blood pressure and stress hormone levels, both of which are factors associated with heart problems. They added: “These results provide potential evidence that late-night and late-night aircraft noise may be associated with an increased risk of hospitalization for cardiovascular disease and death.”
Evidence for an association between aircraft noise and CVD mortality was limited, although this could be explained by the small sample size.
The study was based on figures recorded between 2014 and 2018 and was published in the International Environment Journal.
Aircraft noise was a contentious issue during Heathrow’s lengthy attempt to get approval to build a third runway.
Modern passenger aircraft are quieter than previous models, but there are growing concerns that more flights will lead to more disruptions.
Heathrow, who Imperial College London backed the study, says reducing airborne noise exposure is part of its sustainability strategy.
Airport managers say they have reduced noise levels by 28% since 2006.
Source: Express
