Environmental Noise Exposure and Cardiovascular Disease: A Review of Current Evidence

Noise is a widespread problem worldwide, only expected to grow due to the accelerating urbanization. Although not as well-documented as air pollution, there is substantial evidence of its detrimental effects on health. The effects of noise are usually divided into auditory and non-auditory ones, with cardiovascular disease, this review's main focus, being the most prevalent and well-researched among the latter. There is strong evidence for noise being a risk factor of cardiovascular diseases such as ischemic heart disease, myocardial infarction, and stroke. As the body of evidence grows, we are beginning to better understand not only the effects but also the mechanisms by which noise impacts one’s health. Cardiovascular diseases seem to be caused, among others, by excessive oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, and an increase in stress hormones and inflammatory mediators, which in turn promote atherosclerosis and elevate blood pressure. In this review, we will first show the extent to which noise has become a prevalent problem, then discuss possible mechanisms underlying the pathophysiology of noise-related cardiovascular disease, and present evidence for their association. Then, we will outline the areas of research with limited evidence or warrant further examination.