Night-time aircraft noise 'increases blood pressure'

Night-time noise from aircraft and traffic increases people's blood pressure even if they are asleep, according to a new study.

Researchers also found that the increase in blood pressure was related to the loudness of the nose, with the decibel level being the key factor in determining the effect noise had on blood pressure.

The study follows earlier research which found that people who have been living for at least five years under a flight path near an international airport have a greater risk of developing high blood pressure than a population living in quieter areas.

High blood pressure increases the risk of developing heart disease, stroke, kidney disease and dementia.

For the latest study researchers from Imperial College London and other European institutions monitored 140 sleeping volunteers in their homes near Heathrow airport and three other major European airports.

Their blood pressure was measured remotely at 15-minute intervals and then analysed.

The findings, published in the European Heart Journal, showed that blood pressure increased noticeably after a 'noise event' such as aircraft travelling overhead or a partner snoring.

Commenting on the findings, Dr Lars Jarup said: "We know that noise from air traffic can be a source of irritation, but our research shows that it can also be damaging for people's health, which is particularly significant in light of plans to expand international airports.

"Our studies show that night-time aircraft noise can affect your blood pressure instantly and increase the risk of hypertension [high blood pressure].

"It is clear to me that measures need to be taken to reduce noise levels from aircraft, in particular during night-time, in order to protect the health of people living near airports."