People who live near airports may be up to four times more likely to have a heart attack, a new study suggests.
A team of researchers at University College London (UCL) found that those subjected to noise from planes taking off and landing had a higher risk of poor heart health.
The study analysed heart imaging data from 3,635 people living near Heathrow, Gatwick, Birmingham or Manchester airports and compared it with the hearts of people in lower aircraft noise areas.
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The results, published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology showed that people in high noise areas had stiffer and thicker heart muscles that were less efficient at pumping blood around the body.
Researchers noted that people with these heart abnormalities could be up to four times more at risk of a heart attack, life-threatening heart rhythms, or stroke compared to those without such abnormalities.
Senior author Dr Gaby Captur, of the UCL Institute of Cardiovascular Science and consultant cardiologist at the Royal Free Hospital, London, said: “Our study is observational so we cannot say with certainty that high levels of aircraft noise caused these differences in heart structure and function.
“However, our findings add to a growing body of evidence that aircraft noise can adversely affect heart health and our health more generally.
“Concerted efforts from Government and industry are needed to reduce our exposure to aircraft noise and mitigate its impact on the health of millions of people who live close to airports or under flight paths.”
The study is not the first of its kind to make the link between aircraft noise and poor health, with earlier research linking it to higher blood pressure and obesity.
Professor James Leiper, associate medical director at the British Heart Foundation, which helped to fund the study, said: “For most of us, a plane is seen as a ticket to some well-deserved rest and relaxation.
“But this innovative study reveals the potential invisible impact for those living close to some of our biggest travel hubs.
“While observational studies like this can’t prove cause and effect, these findings add to previous research showing the damaging impact of noise pollution on our heart health.
“Further research will be needed to investigate the longer-term effects of aircraft noise on the health of those with the highest exposure.”
How to reduce noise if you live near an airport
Around five per cent of adults in England exposed to aircraft noise exceeding 50 decibels during the day or night, according to research conducted by the University of Leicester.
If unwanted noise is affecting sleep or quality of life, there are some measures you could take to limit sound exposure in your home. These include:
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Soundproof windows by sealing gaps or installing glazing
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Install acoustic insulation
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Plant dense trees and bushes around your home to absorb noise
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Use heavy curtains, carpets and rugs to help soundproof your home