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All This Horn-Honking And Tire-Screeching Might Shorten Our Lives
(Photo by Gary Kavanagh via the LAist Featured Photos pool on Flickr)
A recent study shows that listening to the bustling noises of L.A. traffic might be shortening your life. The study, which comes from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Imperial College London and King's College London, suggests that constant exposure to the tire-squealing, horn-blaring soundscape of congested metro areas increases your risk of heart attack or death, the L.A. Times reports.
Their research shows that those who are exposed to moderately loud or very loud traffic noises throughout the day over an extended period of time have a 4% greater risk of "death from any cause." This is specifically referring to noise levels of 60 decibels or higher as compared to more tranquil places. Risk of ischemic heart disease increases by 3% in adults and 4% among the elderly. This specifically refers to noise levels of 55-60 decibels, as compared to areas where daytime noise level are under 55 decibels.
Why is this so? Well, researchers think it's because listening to that much tire-screeching and engine-revving can cause your blood pressure to shoot up and increase the levels of stress hormones. This can lead to elevated stress and trouble sleeping.
Not everyone may be as sensitive to these noises, but if you're looking to distance yourself from the chaos, experts suggest blocking it out with white noise or music, and by sealing passageways in your home that allow in more noise. Other advice includes deep breathing, regular exercise and a healthy diet to decrease stress and maintain your health.
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You can also use HowLoud to see the sound score in a particular area. This application measures the sound by building a 3D map of the buildings and the roads around addresses typed in by the user to determine how loud the area is.
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
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