Overview

• A UK study analyzed over 3,600 residents near major airports and found that aircraft noise exposure worsened heart structure and function by 10-20%.
• High aircraft noise, especially at night, is associated with stiffer, thicker heart muscles, impairing the heart's ability to pump blood efficiently.
• These heart changes can lead to a fourfold increase in the risk of heart attack, stroke, or life-threatening irregular heart rhythms.
• Nighttime aircraft noise is particularly harmful due to its impact on sleep quality, which may exacerbate stress and cardiovascular strain.
• Researchers call for government and industry action to reduce noise exposure and further study its long-term health effects.