Key points from article :
Noise pollution is an invisible but serious threat to human health, linked to conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and even dementia. According to Professor Charlotte Clark from St George's, University of London, excessive noise exposure is a public health crisis, yet it remains largely overlooked.
Research shows that noise triggers the body's fight-or-flight response, causing increased heart rate, stress hormone release, and long-term cardiovascular strain. This happens even during sleep, as the body remains responsive to sounds, leading to chronic stress and higher risks of heart attacks and strokes. Traffic noise is a major culprit, with studies estimating that across Europe, it contributes to 12,000 early deaths annually and millions of cases of disturbed sleep and mental distress.
Noise pollution is not just about volume but also about disruption and control. Dr Maria Foraster, who has reviewed evidence for the World Health Organization, explains that noise has health impacts comparable to air pollution, yet it is harder to comprehend. In cities like Barcelona, excessive noise from traffic and nightlife has led to stress-related hospitalizations and even fatalities. Efforts to reduce urban noise, such as pedestrian-friendly “superblocks,” have shown promising health benefits, but large-scale implementation remains a challenge.
In Dhaka, Bangladesh—one of the world’s noisiest cities—activists and government officials are pushing for stricter noise regulations. Artist Mominur Rahman Royal protests against honking, while officials acknowledge the urgent need for change. Though solutions are complex, experts stress that reducing noise pollution could significantly improve public health. Dr Masrur Abdul Quader sums it up: noise is a “silent killer and a slow poison,” making the search for quieter spaces more important than ever.
