Health

Proximity to Airports Linked to Increased Heart Attack Risk, Study Finds

January, 18, 2025-04:27

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Proximity to Airports Linked to Increased Heart Attack Risk, Study Finds

Proximity to Airports Linked to Increased Heart Attack Risk, Study Finds

Residing in proximity to an airport may significantly elevate the risk of experiencing a heart attack.
Research indicates that the loud noise generated by aircraft contributes to a higher probability of adverse cardiac health outcomes.

A study conducted by University College London analyzed heart imaging data from 3,635 individuals living near Heathrow, Gatwick, Birmingham, and Manchester airports.
The findings demonstrated that these residents exhibited a greater number of heart irregularities compared to those who were not subjected to elevated levels of aircraft noise.

The imaging results indicated that their heart muscles were both thicker and stiffer in comparison.
Such irregularities result in less efficient blood circulation throughout the body, potentially increasing the risk of heart attacks, life-threatening arrhythmias, and strokes by fourfold.

Dr. Gaby Captur, a cardiologist at UCL, stated, "Our research contributes to an expanding body of evidence indicating that aircraft noise can negatively impact heart health and overall well-being."
She emphasized the necessity for coordinated actions from the government and industry to diminish exposure to aircraft noise and alleviate its effects on the health of millions residing near airports or beneath flight paths. Many airports, including Gatwick and Heathrow, provide financial assistance for home improvements aimed at reducing aircraft noise, such as sound insulation and double glazing.

Previous research has also associated high levels of aircraft noise with increased blood pressure and obesity.
Additionally, a study led by the University of Leicester estimated that approximately 5 percent of adults in England are exposed to aircraft noise levels exceeding 50 decibels.
Professor James Leiper, associate medical director of research at the British Heart Foundation, remarked, "While observational studies like this cannot establish causation, these results reinforce earlier research highlighting the detrimental effects of noise pollution on heart health."



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