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Noise raises blood pressure without impairing auditory sensitivity
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|March 27, 1981
Summary
Chronic noise exposure in rhesus monkeys caused lasting high blood pressure. This study found that prolonged exposure to realistic noise levels elevated blood pressure, with no recovery after noise cessation.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Occupational and environmental noise are prevalent stressors.
- Chronic noise exposure is a potential risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the long-term cardiovascular effects of continuous noise exposure.
- To assess if noise-induced hypertension in non-human primates is reversible.
Main Methods:
- Two rhesus monkeys were exposed to realistic noise patterns and levels for nine months.
- Blood pressure was monitored throughout the exposure and recovery periods.
- Auditory brainstem responses were measured before and after noise exposure to assess hearing sensitivity.
Main Results:
- Sustained elevations in blood pressure were observed in both monkeys during and after the nine-month noise exposure.
- Blood pressure did not return to baseline levels even after the cessation of noise exposure.
- No significant changes in auditory sensitivity were detected via auditory brainstem responses.
Conclusions:
- Continuous exposure to realistic noise levels can lead to persistent hypertension in rhesus monkeys.
- The hypertensive effects of chronic noise exposure may not be reversible.
- Noise exposure primarily impacts cardiovascular health, not necessarily auditory sensitivity in the short term.