2023-10-18 10:08:49
According to Public Health France, 17 million French adults are affected by high blood pressure, among whom 6 are unaware of their hypertensive status and are therefore not treated. Can ambient noise increase blood pressure? This question has recently been the subject of a scientific study. Explanations.
Road traffic and high blood pressure
Several previous studies have suggested close links between noise and the risk of high blood pressure. In 2017, for example, a study showed a harmful effect of aircraft noise on blood pressure. However, scientists lacked evidence to demonstrate the relationship between certain noises and increased blood pressure.
To find out more, British researchers recently assessed associations between long-term exposure to road traffic noise and the incidence of primary hypertension (that is, when high blood pressure is not the consequence of another disease). They also took into account the impact of atmospheric pollution generated by road traffic. In total, data from more than 240,000 participants were considered, all without high blood pressure at the start of the study.
Traffic noise and pollution, a cocktail that raises blood pressure
Participants were followed for an average duration of 8.1 years. During this period, 21,140 of them developed high blood pressure, diagnosed by blood pressure values above 140 mm Hg for systolic blood pressure and/or above 90 mm Hg for diastolic blood pressure. A significant association was demonstrated between road traffic noise and the incidence of high blood pressure. Thus, an increase of 10 decibels in average exposure over 24 hours increased the risk of developing high blood pressure by 7%.
This association between road traffic noise and high blood pressure was not modified by the presence of fine particles (PM2.5) or by the level of nitrogen dioxide. On the other hand, simultaneous exposure to traffic noise and air pollution increased the risk of high blood pressure even more.
A new modifiable risk factor for high blood pressure
According to this study, road traffic noise and atmospheric pollution should be added to the already long list of modifiable risk factors for high blood pressure :
- A diet rich in salt;
- A diet low in fruits and vegetables;
- Significant alcohol consumption;
- Excessive consumption of liquorice;
- A lack of physical activity;
- Excessive sedentary lifestyle;
- Overweight or obesity;
- Smoking;
- The stress.
For people who are frequently exposed to traffic noise, consider checking your blood pressure regularly. High blood pressure is in fact one of the main cardiovascular risk factors and must be the subject of appropriate medical care!
Posted on September 19, 2022 by Déborah L., Doctor of Pharmacy. Updated by Estelle B., Doctor of Pharmacy, October 18, 2023
Estelle B., Doctor of Pharmacy
Sources
– Definition and causes of high blood pressure (hypertension). AMELI Health. January 22, 2021. www.ameli.fr. Accessed September 12, 2023.
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