Risk of Parkinson’s disease may increase with prolonged exposure to road traffic noise
Summary
A large study in Denmark found that long-term exposure to road traffic noise slightly raises the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. The study followed over 3 million people for 18 years and showed that having quieter parts of a home may reduce this risk.Key Facts
- Parkinson’s disease damages parts of the brain, affecting movement and balance.
- For every 11.5 decibels increase in traffic noise at the loudest side of a home, the risk of Parkinson’s rose by 3%.
- The study included 3.1 million Danish adults aged 40 and older and lasted 18 years.
- Researchers accounted for air pollution but could not include lifestyle factors.
- Noise pollution can disturb sleep and increase stress hormone levels, which may link to Parkinson’s.
- Chronic noise exposure above WHO limits affects about one-third of Europeans.
- Experts say noise might be a general stress factor rather than a direct cause of Parkinson’s.
- The study suggests reducing loud traffic noise near homes could help lower Parkinson’s risk.
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