InfoHub Logo

Scientists in Finland have uncovered an unexpected factor contributing to increased cholesterol levels: nighttime traffic noise. Researchers at the University of Oulu found that prolonged exposure to noise during sleep hours can significantly affect the body's lipid profiles, offering crucial insights into the development of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.

Extensive Research on Noise Exposure

This study stands as one of the most comprehensive in its field, analyzing data from 272,229 adults aged 31 and older. The research team utilized national noise maps to assess the level of nighttime noise at each participant's residence. Special attention was given to the impact of noise during sleep, a period when individuals are particularly vulnerable.

Cholesterol and Lipid Changes Identified

Blood samples were meticulously analyzed, evaluating 155 metabolic biomarkers. The findings indicated that individuals exposed to noise levels exceeding 55 decibels at night experienced higher levels of total cholesterol and LDL (often referred to as "bad" cholesterol). Alterations were also observed in lipoprotein and fatty acid compositions.

The 'Dose-Response' Effect of Noise

A clear "dose-response" relationship emerged, with metabolic changes becoming noticeable around 50 dB of noise. These effects intensified as the noise exposure increased. This suggests a direct correlation between the intensity of nighttime noise and the severity of metabolic disruptions.

Noise as a Public Health Concern

"Our results indicate that nighttime traffic noise can subtly but systematically affect metabolic health," stated Eija Hämäläinen, the study's lead author and a doctoral researcher at the University of Oulu. While individual changes might seem minor, the cumulative effect on millions exposed to noise could be substantial at a population level.

Professor Sylvain Sebert, a senior author of the study, emphasized that this research provides biological validation for the previously identified link between traffic noise and cardiometabolic diseases. "This strengthens the idea that noise is not just a mere irritant but a tangible threat to public health," he commented.

The researchers suggest that strategies to mitigate nighttime noise, such as urban planning that limits traffic and creates quieter residential zones, could be an integral part of preventing cardiovascular diseases. The new data highlights noise's ability to influence metabolic processes even before clinical symptoms manifest.

This was reported by the Infohub.kz information agency.