Traffic noise increase the risk of depression by two-thirds, as scientists have found. All that is required is to regularly hear the movement of cars on the roads with noise levels over 65 decibels.
Accommodation along the busy highway greatly increases the risk of depression. The study showed that the risk of this mental illness has increased more than 65%. The researchers monitored the mental health of thousands of residents of Amsterdam for 4 years. Carefully evaluated the noise level in their houses and apartments. The results of monitoring showed that if the increased noise exceeds 70 decibels, these people are 65% more likely to have faced depression, compared with those who have homes in the level of road noise does not exceed 45 to 54 decibels. In total, the researchers observed over 23 000 men and women aged 18 to 70 years living in the centre of Amsterdam.
Special volunteers regularly interviewed research participants in order to identify the classic signs of depression. Noise was the name of the indicator more than 65 decibels. For example, a truck with a diesel engine generates noise at 85 decibels, and the rider can increase this figure to 100 decibels. This study provides new evidence of the connection between the lively arteries and mental problems of the people living in the vicinity.
In Moscow not less than 1 million people live near heavy traffic, and the noise level in residential areas is reaching dangerous indicators. The findings of the study show that the traffic intensity is high for the mental health of people living nearby is not less dangerous than physical health. Previous studies have shown that regular noise level above 65 decibels leads to premature death due to surges in blood pressure and increased risk for stroke. (READ MORE)