A new study led by University College London (UCL) researchers suggests that living near airports with high levels of aircraft noise may elevate the risk of heart conditions, including heart attacks and strokes.
The research analyzed heart imaging data from 3,635 individuals residing near four major airports in England and compared it with data from people in quieter areas.
The findings revealed a heightened risk for those exposed to greater aircraft noise, particularly at night. Factors like disrupted sleep and increased time spent at home, which amplifies noise exposure, were cited as potential contributors.
The study also found that people with heart abnormalities not exposed to aircraft noise faced a two- to fourfold increased risk of severe cardiac events, such as heart attacks, arrhythmias, or strokes, compared to those without such abnormalities.
Cardiologist Gaby Captur, a lead researcher, noted, “Our study is observational, so we cannot conclusively say that high aircraft noise levels caused these changes in heart structure and function.” However, she emphasized that the findings add to mounting evidence linking aircraft noise to adverse effects on heart health and overall well-being.
