Experts’ sound alarm on noise pollution’s health risks, call for urgent action

Public health and environmental experts have raised the alarm over the harmful effects of noise pollution, warning that prolonged exposure to noise levels above 70 decibels (dB) can lead to hearing loss, cardiovascular problems, and other serious health issues.

Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja, Dr. Adewale Senu, a public health physician, described noise pollution as a critical but often overlooked public health crisis.

“Noise pollution is not just about discomfort; it’s a serious health crisis,” Senu emphasized. He explained that noise disrupts sleep, with chronic sleep deprivation linked to diabetes, obesity, and weakened immunity.

Additionally, exposure to noise during sleep increases the risk of heart disease by 5% to 10%, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

Dr. Senu warned that individuals living near busy roads, airports, or industrial zones face heightened risks of noise-related health complications.

The harmful effects of noise pollution are already evident for many Nigerians. Residents like Ms. Chaliya Bindul, who lives near a panel beater workshop in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), recount daily struggles.

“I constantly suffer from headaches and fatigue, and my children have difficulty concentrating on their studies because of the incessant noise,” Bindul shared.

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A 2024 report by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) identified Lagos and Port Harcourt as the country’s most noise-polluted cities. Daytime noise levels in these urban centres often reach 85 decibels, far exceeding the WHO’s recommended residential limit of 55 decibels.

Research in Port Harcourt revealed that traffic, industrial activities, and generator noise are the leading contributors to elevated noise levels. Similarly, a study in Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos found average traffic noise levels of 71.7 decibels, exceeding safe daytime thresholds.

Environmental expert Mr. Iniobong Okoh stressed the importance of implementing robust measures to combat noise pollution.

“Noise pollution goes beyond inconvenience; it requires urgent policy intervention to protect public health,” Okoh stated.

He proposed solutions such as stricter noise regulations for industries, urban planning that includes acoustic considerations, and public education on noise reduction strategies.

Okoh also called on the government to enforce noise control policies and promote soundproofing in public and private spaces. For individuals, he recommended practical steps like using earplugs, minimizing generator use, and observing quiet hours to reduce noise exposure.

Experts agree that addressing noise pollution requires a collaborative effort between government agencies, urban planners, and the general public.

By enforcing stricter regulations and raising awareness, Nigeria can mitigate the health risks associated with excessive noise and create healthier living environments for its citizens.

This growing crisis underscores the urgent need for both immediate and long-term solutions to protect public health from the damaging effects of noise pollution.