Private MD News

Loud noises may contribute to poor heart health

Category: Heart Health and Cholesterol

Individuals who work in a persistently noisy environment may want to consider seeking blood pressure and cholesterol testing to determine if they have an elevated risk of heart disease. The findings of a recent study suggest these individuals are more than twice as likely to suffer cardiovascular complications.

Researchers, who presented their findings in the journal Occupational and Environmental Medicine, examined the findings of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The survey collected information about work environment and medical data from more than 6,000 workers.

After reviewing the data, researchers found that workers who said they put up with a persistently noisy environment for a period of nine months were two to three times more likely to have angina, coronary artery disease or have suffered a heart attack.

The association was particularly strong in professionals under 50. These individuals were three to four times as likely to suffer from a heart condition.

Researchers speculated that persistent loud noise may have an effect on cardiovascular health that is similar to sudden strong emotion or physical exertion, both of which have been shown to constrict blood flow through coronary arteries.