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Airport noise can raise blood pressure

Living near a noisy airport increases blood pressure levels, according to new research. The report published in the Journal of Epidemiology shows that constant exposure to high levels of noise can damage health.

The study

Researchers at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm studied 2,700 men over a 12 year period who lived near Stockholm Arlanda Airport. The men who were exposed to an average level of noise of over 50 decibels, were 19% more likely to have high blood pressure.

The World Health Orgainsation(WHO) recommends a limit of 55 decibels on noise levels in residential areas. WHO is asking governments to reduce this to 30-40 decibels for average daily noise.

Head researcher Charlotta Eriksson said older men were particulary affected and suggests, "This might be due to prolonged exposure. Or it may be that older people are more sensitive to noise."

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