NORAH - field study: The Effects of chronic exposure to traffic noise (aircraft, railway and road) on the self-measured blood pressure

摘要

Based on the concept that noise may trigger repeatedly unavoidable autonomous physiological reactions, which each can cause an increase of blood pressure the study examined the effects of chronic traffic noise exposure on self-measured blood pressure (SBPM). Study region includes areas near Frankfurt airport within the 40 dB(A) equivalent continuous sound level contours of aircraft noise for day and night-time, targeting on voluntary adults residing in the defined region. Telemedical blood pressure devices handed to study participants were issued for SBPM. After successful training, participants performed 2 daily measurements over a 21-day period. Additionally, a questionnaire with reference to current health, medications, lifestyle, individual factors, as well as noise sensitivity was completed. Data analyses included n=844 (58.4% w; 41.6% m). BP values (mean of morning readings [mmHg]) were systolic/diastolic 118.1/72.3 in women and 125.4/78.8 in men. Multiple linear regression model with main outcome systolic BP including age, gender, socio-economic status, pack years, and physical activity as influencing variables result small positive effect estimators without statistical significance for all investigated noise parameters (L_(pA,eq,18-06h) aircraft, railway and road traffic). The results of our study are overall comparable to previously conducted scientific research concerning traffic noise and continuous BP values.