Aircraft Noise Exposure Linked to ‘Thicker, Weaker, and Stiffer Hearts

Exposure to aircraft noise, especially for those living near airports or under flight paths, is linked to worse heart structure and function, according to a study in the United Kingdom.

Participants exposed to high aircraft noise levels were found to have thicker, weaker, and stiffer hearts, which triples the risk of heart failure, stroke, or death.

A JACC study shows an association, not causation, but suggests noise exposure contributes to obesity and hypertension, both of which are known to worsen cardiac remodeling.

Data from 3,635 adults living near major UK airports, including Heathrow and Gatwick, revealed significant differences in heart function measured through cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR).

Participants exposed to nighttime aircraft noise had larger left ventricular (LV) volumes, thicker heart walls, and worse LV dynamics.

Those who lived in high aircraft noise areas at night had a quadrupled risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) over time.

Body mass index (BMI) accounted for up to 54% of the observed association between noise exposure and heart changes, while hypertension mediated up to 36% of the effects.

Individuals who remained in high-noise areas had 10% to 20% worse heart function compared to those who moved away.

The study isolates the effects of aircraft noise from other noise and air pollutants, emphasizing its independent role in worsening cardiac health.

Noise pollution is expected to increase globally due to growing reliance on transportation, further exacerbating these health risks.

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Call for Action:

• Individuals exposed to aircraft noise should proactively manage other cardiovascular risk factors, such as blood pressure, weight, and exercise levels.
• Policymakers should address noise pollution by investing in technologies like satellite-guided flight paths, noise barriers, and restrictions on older, noisier aircraft.
• Expansion of airports should occur in tandem with measures to mitigate noise pollution’s health effects.

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Take-Home Points:

• Aircraft noise exposure is linked to worse heart structure and function, increasing risks of heart failure, stroke, and death.
• High noise exposure contributes to cardiac remodeling, mediated by factors like obesity and hypertension.
• The effects of noise pollution on cardiovascular health are expected to worsen as global transportation needs grow.
• Clinicians should inquire about environmental factors, including noise, and monitor patients’ cardiovascular health accordingly.
• Policies addressing aircraft noise and raising awareness are urgently needed to protect vulnerable populations.