People with heart problems and living near airports should consider relocating. According to a new study, airplane noise at night might increase the chances of heart failure for individuals with cardiovascular problems. 

Nighttime noise increases chances of heart failure 

Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute researchers have warned that individuals exposed to noise pollution at night between 40 and 50 decibels are 33% more likely to get a heart attack. Past studies show that considerable nighttime noise exposure for prolonged periods could increase the chances of heart failure. But according to this latest study, airplane noise can lead to cardiovascular death within two hours after passing by. The researchers say that the noise can lead to similar effects intense emotions such as anger and excitement cause. 

Martin Roosli, the study’s corresponding author, indicated that between 2000 and 2015, there were around 800 cardiovascular deaths that occurred within Zurich airport’s vicinity. Roosli said that the deaths represent 3% of reported cardiovascular deaths. Past studies indicate that noise pollution contributes to almost 48,000 ischemic heart disease cases in Europe each year.

The study used a special cross-over model 

The researchers used a special case-crossover model designed to establish whether noise exposure at the time of death was high relative to other times. Apolline Saucy, the study’s co-author said that the study design is useful in studying noise exposure impact with high daily variability such as aircraft noise, considering flight delays and changing weather conditions. Saucy explained that in the temporal analysis approach it is easier to isolate the effects from the low or high noise levels on mortality from other factors. 

Findings indicated an increase in cardiovascular death risk by 33% for noise at night between 40 and 50 decibels and 44% for levels exceeding 55 decibels. Usually, a whisper is around 30 decibels and normal talking is 60 decibels. Exposure to noises above 85 decibels such as power tools, blenders, and hairdryers for prolonged periods can lead to permanent hearing loss.