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Road traffic noise and stroke: a prospective cohort study
Mette Sørensen1, Martin Hvidberg, Zorana J Andersen
1Institute of Cancer Epidemiology, Danish Cancer Society, Strandboulevarden 49, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark. mettes@cancer.dk
Long-term exposure to road traffic noise is linked to increased stroke risk, particularly in individuals over 64.5 years old. This study highlights traffic noise as a significant environmental risk factor for stroke incidence.
Area of Science:
- Environmental epidemiology
- Cardiovascular health
- Neurology
Background:
- Long-term exposure to road traffic noise is associated with increased cardiovascular disorder risk.
- The specific relationship between road traffic noise and stroke incidence requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between residential road traffic noise exposure and the risk of stroke.
- To determine if road traffic noise is an independent risk factor for stroke.
Main Methods:
- A population-based cohort study of 57,053 individuals was conducted.
- Stroke incidence was identified through a national hospital register from 1993-2006.
- Road traffic noise exposure was estimated based on residential history and analyzed using Cox regression, adjusting for air pollution and confounders.
Main Results:
- An increased incidence rate ratio (IRR) of 1.14 for stroke was observed per 10 dB higher level of road traffic noise (Lden).
- A significant interaction with age was found, with a strong association between road traffic noise and stroke in individuals over 64.5 years (IRR: 1.27).
- No significant association between road traffic noise and stroke was found in individuals under 64.5 years (IRR: 1.02).
Conclusions:
- Residential road traffic noise exposure is associated with a higher risk of stroke.
- The association between road traffic noise and stroke is particularly pronounced in older adults (over 64.5 years).
- Findings suggest that traffic noise may be a modifiable environmental risk factor for stroke in the elderly population.
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