Previous studies have shown that noise can affect cardiovascular health, and some studies have established a link between noise pollution and the incidence of myocardial infarction. This new study is one of the few to find a relationship between noise and the incidence of stroke.
For the study, administrative health data on a cohort of nearly 1.1 million people living in Montreal, Canada, were cross-referenced with noise measurements recorded by approximately 200 sound level meters across the island during the same period. The testing period was held from 2000 to 2014.
“A number of studies, largely in Europe, have shown that noise has a deleterious effect on cardiovascular health,” said study author Inès Yankoty. “Some have established a link between noise pollution and the incidence of myocardial infarction.” However, she noted the current study is one of the few to draw a connection between noise and the incidence of stroke.
During the study, more than 25,000 people were hospitalized for stroke in Montreal who were over the age of 45. There were five times as many ischemic strokes as hemorrhagic strokes. A hemorrhagic stroke happens when a blood vessel in the skull ruptures, whereas an ischemic stroke is when a blood clot blocks a blood vessel in the brain.
Researchers believe that people living in the vicinity of the major roads in the city are at higher risk of stroke due to the highest ambient noise levels in these areas. It was concluded that for every 10-decibel (dBA) increase in outdoor noise, the risk of stroke rises by 6% for people aged 45 and over living in Montreal.
Studies have shown that noise above 40 dBA at night and 55 dBA during the day can cause symptoms such as stress, fatigue, mood and sleep disorders and cardiovascular problems. Daily exposure to noise between 85 and 105 dBA poses a long-term risk of hearing loss; at 105 dBA and above, there is an immediate risk of tinnitus or even deafness.
Supporting Brain Function and Hearing Health
To help combat the effect of noise, lifestyle changes may be essential, including making sure you’re getting the correct vitamins and nutrients. Noise and stress can take a toll on the brain, affecting concentration, memory, and overall cognitive function.
The Smart Pill can help counteract these effects through nine ingredients that help support, nourish, and maximize brain health and cognitive function. These include ginkgo biloba, huperzine A, bacopa extract, rosemary extract, and a B vitamin complex. This unique formula helps boost circulation, fight free radicals, and helps to promote clear thinking.
Hearing Rescue is a unique formula that contains 9 ingredients, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal extracts designed to provide nutritional support for hearing. Some evidence suggests that free radicals play a role in noise-related hearing impairment, so Hearing Rescue contains antioxidant properties which help to combat free radicals. Hearing Rescue also contains folate, which may help to provide support in populations with low levels of folic acid suffering from age-related hearing loss.