Occupational exposure to traffic noise and self-reported health problems among urban bus drivers in Dhaka, Bangladesh

This study examines the health impacts of traffic noise pollution on bus drivers in Dhaka, Bangladesh, using a cross-sectional survey design. A total of 130 drivers completed questionnaires covering sociodemographic data, noise exposure, perceptions of traffic noise, and self-reported health problems. Data analysis included descriptive statistics and regression methods. Findings show significant noise exposure, with 76.15% of drivers having over five years of experience and 68.46% working more than eight hours daily. High sensitivity to noise was reported by 73.85% of drivers, and poorly maintained vehicles and chaotic traffic were identified as major contributors. Alarmingly, 95.38% lacked access to healthcare for hearing protection. While 96.92% viewed traffic noise as a critical issue, only 20% were willing to pay for mitigation. Health problems were influenced by age, income, vehicle maintenance, and healthcare awareness. Older drivers and higher-income participants reported more health issues. Relaxed enforcement of noise laws was cited as a systemic concern. This study highlights the need for targeted interventions, such as stricter noise regulation enforcement, improved healthcare access, awareness campaigns, and vehicle maintenance improvements to protect this vulnerable occupational group.