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Lee S, Kim KR, Lee W. Exploring the link between pediatric headaches and environmental noise exposure. BMC Pediatr 2024; 24:94. [PMID: 38308216 PMCID: PMC10835846 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-023-04490-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Headaches are the most common neurologic symptoms in the pediatric population. Most primary headache in children and adolescents focuses on associated factors, including noise. Auditory discomfort is related to recognizing the pain. We aimed to analyze the headache profile of pediatric populations and the connection between noise exposure and head pain in children and adolescents. METHODS We reviewed retrospectively medical records of the pediatric population with headaches in Gyeongsang National University Changwon Hospital from January 2022 to April 2023. Personal headache profiling from self-questionnaires and environmental noise data from the National Noise Information System (NNIS) were used to analyze each variable, and chi-square tests and linear regression models by SAS were used to analyze the statistical correlation. RESULTS Of the 224 participants, 125 were clinically diagnosed with headaches. Of the 104 pubertal subjects, 56.7% were diagnosed with headaches, compared to 60% in the prepubertal group. Both daytime and nighttime noise was significantly higher in the diagnosed headache group than in the non-diagnosed group. Headache duration increased by daytime and nighttime noise with statistical significance in age-adjusted models. CONCLUSION We found that noise exposure is correlated to headaches in children and adolescents. Daytime and nighttime environmental noise exposure was significantly associated with the duration of headaches through our data. Therefore, we assume that noise exposure is vitally relevant to prolonged headaches in the pediatric population. Further research is needed to improve our data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunho Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, CHA Ilsan Medical Center, CHA University, Goyang, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung-Ran Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Gyeongsang National University Changwon Hospital, Changwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Wanhyung Lee
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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Oh J, Thomas MMC. The mediating role of neighborhood social cohesion and trust in the relationship between childhood material hardship and adolescent depression. Health Place 2024; 85:103162. [PMID: 38157741 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2023.103162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study is to examine the association between childhood material hardship and adolescent depression and how the relationship is mediated by neighborhood social cohesion and trust. Previous studies on childhood material hardship and adolescent depression have consistently pointed to the importance of social and environmental contexts in explaining health inequalities among children in socially disadvantaged families. However, little is known about the extent to which neighborhood social context contributes to increasing or decreasing the strength of the association between childhood material hardship and adolescent depression. METHOD Using data from the Future of Families and Child Wellbeing Study (FFCWS) waves 3 and 6, this study conducted Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) analysis to examine whether levels of neighborhood social cohesion and trust mediates the association between childhood material hardship and adolescent depression. The study sample consisted of 2,096 children at age 3 and 15. RESULTS Findings from the SEM analysis suggest that childhood material hardship is linked with higher levels of adolescent depression and this pathway is partially mediated by neighborhood social cohesion and trust. DISCUSSION Results suggest that neighborhood conditions played a role in mediating the association between childhood material hardship and adolescent depression. The implications of the findings are discussed in relation to policy and practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihyun Oh
- Department of Social Welfare, Luskin School of Public Affairs, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, United States.
| | - Margaret M C Thomas
- Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, United States.
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Roberts T, Susser E, Lee Pow J, Donald C, John S, Raghavan V, Ayinde O, Olley B, Miguel Esponda G, Lam J, Murray RM, Cohen A, Weiss HA, Hutchinson G, Thara R, Gureje O, Burns J, Morgan C. Urbanicity and rates of untreated psychotic disorders in three diverse settings in the Global South. Psychol Med 2023; 53:1-9. [PMID: 36645027 PMCID: PMC10600928 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291722003749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extensive evidence indicates that rates of psychotic disorder are elevated in more urban compared with less urban areas, but this evidence largely originates from Northern Europe. It is unclear whether the same association holds globally. This study examined the association between urban residence and rates of psychotic disorder in catchment areas in India (Kancheepuram, Tamil Nadu), Nigeria (Ibadan, Oyo), and Northern Trinidad. METHODS Comprehensive case detection systems were developed based on extensive pilot work to identify individuals aged 18-64 with previously untreated psychotic disorders residing in each catchment area (May 2018-April/May/July 2020). Area of residence and basic demographic details were collected for eligible cases. We compared rates of psychotic disorder in the more v. less urban administrative areas within each catchment area, based on all cases detected, and repeated these analyses while restricting to recent onset cases (<2 years/<5 years). RESULTS We found evidence of higher overall rates of psychosis in more urban areas within the Trinidadian catchment area (IRR: 3.24, 95% CI 2.68-3.91), an inverse association in the Nigerian catchment area (IRR: 0.68, 95% CI 0.51-0.91) and no association in the Indian catchment area (IRR: 1.18, 95% CI 0.93-1.52). When restricting to recent onset cases, we found a modest positive association in the Indian catchment area. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that urbanicity is associated with higher rates of psychotic disorder in some but not all contexts outside of Northern Europe. Future studies should test candidate mechanisms that may underlie the associations observed, such as exposure to violence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessa Roberts
- ESRC Centre for Society & Mental Health, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Ezra Susser
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, USA
| | - Joni Lee Pow
- Department of Psychiatry, University of the West Indies, St Augustine Campus, Trinidad & Tobago
| | - Casswina Donald
- Department of Psychiatry, University of the West Indies, St Augustine Campus, Trinidad & Tobago
| | - Sujit John
- Schizophrenia Research Foundation, Chennai, India
| | | | - Olatunde Ayinde
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Bola Olley
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Georgina Miguel Esponda
- ESRC Centre for Society & Mental Health, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Joseph Lam
- Department of Population, Practice and Policy, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Robin M. Murray
- Division of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Alex Cohen
- Department of Population Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Helen A. Weiss
- MRC International Statistics & Epidemiology Group, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Gerard Hutchinson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of the West Indies, St Augustine Campus, Trinidad & Tobago
| | | | - Oye Gureje
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Jonathan Burns
- Mental Health Research Group, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Craig Morgan
- ESRC Centre for Society & Mental Health, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- National Institute for Health Research, Mental Health Biomedical Research Centre at South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust and King's College London, London, UK
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Bao WW, Xue WX, Jiang N, Huang S, Zhang SX, Zhao Y, Chen YC, Dong GH, Cai M, Chen YJ. Exposure to road traffic noise and behavioral problems in Chinese schoolchildren: A cross-sectional study. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 837:155806. [PMID: 35561898 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.155806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transportation noise is second only to air pollution as an environmental contributor to adverse health outcomes in Western countries. However, no studies investigated the association between road traffic noise and behavioral problems among schoolchildren in China. OBJECTIVE To investigate the association between exposure to road traffic noise at home and behavioral problems in Chinese schoolchildren. METHODS From January to June 2017, we screened 3236 children aged 7-13 years in Guangzhou (Guangdong, China) from the first investigation of an ongoing school-based cohort study with complete information on behavioral problems and residential geolocation. Residential road traffic noise exposure levels were assessed using a validated modeling method in different periods of the day, including daytime (Lday), nighttime (Lnight), and weighted 24-hr (Ldn). The annual mean concentration of nitrogen dioxide was also modeled in our study. Behavioral problems were assessed by the parent-rated Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). Generalized linear mixed models were utilized to estimate the associations between road traffic noise and behavioral problems. RESULTS In the main adjusted model, a 10-dB increase in Ldn was associated with 0.33 (95% CI: 0.08, 0.59), 0.08 (95% CI: -0.01, 0.17), and 0.09 (95% CI: 0.01, 0.16) increases in three subscales score for total difficulties score, emotional problems, and conduct problems, respectively. The same increase in Ldn was also associated with the abnormal total difficulties score (OR = 1.25, 95%CI: 1.01, 1.55), emotional problems (OR = 1.19, 95%CI: 0.98, 1.44), and conduct problems (OR = 1.28, 95%CI:1.02, 1.63). Externalising behavior appears more susceptible to traffic noise than internalising behavior. NO2 had a small impact on the associations between Ldn and behavioral problems. Our estimates were generally robust in several sensitivity analyses. CONCLUSION Residential road traffic noise exposure might be related to increased behavioral problems in Chinese schoolchildren, such as emotional symptoms and conduct problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Wen Bao
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Wang-Xing Xue
- School of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Intelligent Transportation System, School of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Nan Jiang
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Shan Huang
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Shu-Xin Zhang
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Yu Zhao
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Yi-Can Chen
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Guang-Hui Dong
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health Risk Assessment, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Environmental and Health Risk Assessment, Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Ming Cai
- School of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Intelligent Transportation System, School of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China.
| | - Ya-Jun Chen
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China.
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From Childhood Residential Green space to Adult Mental Wellbeing: A Pathway Analysis among Chinese Adults. Behav Sci (Basel) 2022; 12:bs12030084. [PMID: 35323403 PMCID: PMC8945553 DOI: 10.3390/bs12030084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Residential green spaces, arguably the most accessible type of urban green space, may have lasting impacts on children and even change their lives later in adulthood. However, the potential pathways from childhood residential green space to adulthood mental wellbeing are not well understood. Therefore, we conducted a questionnaire survey among Chinese adults (N = 770) in September 2021 to capture data on subjective measures of residential green space and nature contact during childhood, and nature connectedness, nature contact, and mental wellbeing during adulthood. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed to examine theoretical pathways between childhood residential green space and adult mental wellbeing. The results suggest that childhood residential green space positively predicts childhood nature contact and also has direct and indirect positive impacts on nature contact, nature connectedness, and mental wellbeing during adulthood. These findings advance understanding of the long-term impacts of childhood residential green space. Policymakers are advised to prioritize residential greening as well as other recreational facilities for children when planning health-promoting environments in urban spaces. Due to limitations in our study design, we also advise future studies to re-examine and extend the framework documented here.
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Ni N, Chi X, Liu W, Cui X. Air Pollution and Adolescent Development: Evidence from a 3-Year Longitudinal Study in China. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 8:children8110987. [PMID: 34828699 PMCID: PMC8620088 DOI: 10.3390/children8110987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the impact of air pollution on the development of adolescents and the mediating role of students’ emotional disorders. Participants came from a longitudinal sample group of adolescents (n = 1301) in Southern China from the years 2016 to 2018. They were assessed for the Positive Youth Development and emotional disorders, and air pollution was measured by the Air Quality Index. The results show that students’ higher degree of exposure to air pollution was negatively associated with their positive development. Three out of four emotional disorders (i.e., anxiety, neuroticism, and withdrawal) mediate this association. The results suggest that the physical environment can have a paramount influence on the emotional status and overall development of adolescents, calling for intervention programs by policymakers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Ni
- Webank Institute of Fintech, Shenzhen Audencia Business School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
- Correspondence:
| | - Xinli Chi
- School of Psychology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China;
| | - Wei Liu
- School of Management, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China;
| | - Xiumin Cui
- College of Education for the Future, Beijing Normal University, Zhuhai 519087, China;
- The Affiliated Kindergarten of Meilian Primary School, Shenzhen 518035, China
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Wang Y, Xue Q. The implications of COVID-19 in the ambient environment and psychological conditions. NANOIMPACT 2021; 21:100295. [PMID: 33458449 PMCID: PMC7801820 DOI: 10.1016/j.impact.2021.100295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Revised: 12/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 has posed a huge threat to mankind, deeply endangering healthy states and influencing economic development. COVID-19 has important impacts on the environment as anthropic interventions to nature has been largely reduced after almost all countries implemented partial or complete blockade to curb the spread of the virus. Up to now, a series of studies have focused on the relationship between COVID-19 and the environment from different cities. In this review, we summarized the latest data on the correlation between COVID-19 and environmental changes. As a result, imposing necessary restrictions can help suppress the virus chain while improving air quality in some countries. The significant reduction in NO2 emission, PM2.5 level and other hazardous factors reflected the promising consequence of the efforts made during the lockdown period. It is, sometimes dark clouds have silver linings. It is worth noting that along with these positive outcomes, secondary pollutants such as ozone, however, remained unchanged or even increased significantly. Additionally, medical wastes and plastics pollutants would be increased substantially. The extensive use of masks in daily life and other medical materials is bound to increase the burden of waste disposal and environmental degradation. For the general public, in addition to the physical lesions caused by SARS-CoV-2, confirmed/suspected cases and even the normal group may suffer from mental problems. Based on those mentioned impacts, the way forward depends largely on our attitude and decision. It is indispensable to assess potential deleterious effects and to take preventive measures in time to respond to the post-pandemic era. In this way, potential silver linings will not become temporary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Qingwang Xue
- Department of Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng, Shandong 252059, China
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Yang L, Guthrie OW. Effects of acute noise exposure on DNA damage response genes in the cochlea, cortex, heart and liver. Exp Mol Pathol 2020; 114:104401. [PMID: 32061943 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexmp.2020.104401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Revised: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Noise as a systemic stressor induces various organ dysfunctions and the underlying molecular pathology is unknown. Previous studies have shown that noise exposure results in the accumulation of DNA damage in auditory and non-auditory organs. The DNA damage response (DDR) is a global protective mechanism that plays a critical role in maintaining DNA integrity. However, the role of DDR genes in noise induced systemic (non-auditory) pathology has not been investigated. The current pilot study was designed to test the hypothesis that an acute noise exposure would alter the normal expression of DDR genes (e.g., ATM, p53 & XPC) in auditory (cochlea) and non-auditory organs, such as the cortex, heart and liver. Mice were used as subjects in this study and consisted of a baseline group, a one-hour noise exposure (@105 dB) group, and a four-hour noise exposure (@105 dB) group. ATM, p53 and XPC expression levels were quantified through end-point polymerize chain reactions. The current study demonstrated that noise exposure failed to elicit statistically significant changes in DDR genes (relative to baseline) across the various organs. The failure of the cochlea, heart, cortex and liver to upregulate protective DDR genes during acute noise exposure might help to explain their susceptibility to noise-induced DNA damage. This suggests that, biomedical interventions to upregulate DDR genes may need to be implemented before noise exposure or during the early stages of noise exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Yang
- Cell & Molecular Pathology Laboratory, Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, USA; Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, USA.
| | - O'neil W Guthrie
- Cell & Molecular Pathology Laboratory, Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, USA
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Flies EJ, Mavoa S, Zosky GR, Mantzioris E, Williams C, Eri R, Brook BW, Buettel JC. Urban-associated diseases: Candidate diseases, environmental risk factors, and a path forward. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2019; 133:105187. [PMID: 31648161 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2019.105187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Revised: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cities are home to over half the global population; that proportion is expected to rise to 70% by mid-century. The urban environment differs greatly from that in which humans evolved, with potentially important consequences for health. Rates for allergic, inflammatory and auto-immune diseases appear to rise with urbanization and be higher in the more urbanized nations of the world which has led some to suggest that cities promote the occurrence of these diseases. However, there are no syntheses outlining what urban-associated diseases are and what characteristics of cities promote their occurrence. OBJECTIVES To synthesize the current understanding of "urban-associated diseases", and discover the common, potentially modifiable features of cities that may be driving these associations. METHODS We focus on any diseases that have been associated with cities or are particularly prominent in today's urban societies. We draw on expertise across diverse health fields to examine the evidence for urban connections and drivers. DISCUSSION We found evidence for urban associations across allergic, auto-immune, inflammatory, lifestyle and infectious disease categories. Some conditions (e.g. obesity and diabetes) have complex relationships with cities that have been insufficiently explored. Other conditions (e.g. allergies and asthma) have more evidence demonstrating their relationship with cities and the mechanisms driving that association. Unsurprisingly, air pollution was the characteristic of cities most frequently associated with disease. Other identified urban risk factors are not as widely known: altered microbial exposure and a disconnect from environmental microbiomes, vitamin D deficiency, noise and light pollution, and a transient, over-crowded, impoverished population. However, many complexities and caveats to these relationships beg clarification; we highlight the current knowledge gaps and outline ways to fill those gaps. Identifying urban-associated diseases and their drivers will allow us to prepare for the urban-disease burden of the future and create healthy cities that mitigate that disease burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily J Flies
- School of Natural Sciences, College of Science and Engineering, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia.
| | - Suzanne Mavoa
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Graeme R Zosky
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia; School of Medicine, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Evangeline Mantzioris
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences & Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA), University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Craig Williams
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Rajaraman Eri
- School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Barry W Brook
- School of Natural Sciences, College of Science and Engineering, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Jessie C Buettel
- School of Natural Sciences, College of Science and Engineering, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
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Schubert M, Hegewald J, Freiberg A, Starke KR, Augustin F, Riedel-Heller SG, Zeeb H, Seidler A. Behavioral and Emotional Disorders and Transportation Noise among Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16183336. [PMID: 31510007 PMCID: PMC6765874 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16183336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Revised: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Children and adolescents may be particularly vulnerable to environmental influences such as noise which can affect mental well-being. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the effect of transportation noise on behavioral and emotional disorders in children and adolescents using a meta-analytic approach. Therefore, we searched four databases (Pubmed, Embase, PsychINFO, and PSYNDEX) and grey literature until February of 2019. We identified 14 articles from 10 studies examining the effect of transportation noise exposure on the mental health of children. These studies predominately used the Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) and mainly focused on schoolchildren and adolescents aged 9–10 years and 15–17 years in Europe. Three studies could be included in the meta-analysis. In sum, the odds for hyperactivity/inattention and total difficulties was significantly increased by 11% (Odds Ratio, OR = 1.11 (95% Confidence Interval, CI 1.04–1.19), respectively 9% (95% CI 1.02–1.16) per 10 dB road traffic noise. Thus, we obtained evidence for an effect of road traffic noise on hyperactivity/inattention and total difficulties, although we could consider few studies. Future studies are needed that use similar techniques to assess outcomes and exposures at schools and in homes. This would make it possible to conduct an individual participant data pooled analysis of the data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Schubert
- Institute and Policlinic of Occupational and Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany.
| | - Janice Hegewald
- Institute and Policlinic of Occupational and Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany.
| | - Alice Freiberg
- Institute and Policlinic of Occupational and Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany.
| | - Karla Romero Starke
- Institute and Policlinic of Occupational and Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany.
| | - Franziska Augustin
- Institute and Policlinic of Occupational and Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany.
| | - Steffi G Riedel-Heller
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health, University of Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Hajo Zeeb
- Department of Prevention and Evaluation, Leibniz-Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology - BIPS GmbH, 28359 Bremen, Germany.
- Health Sciences Bremen, University of Bremen, 28344 Bremen, Germany.
| | - Andreas Seidler
- Institute and Policlinic of Occupational and Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany.
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Dzhambov AM, Markevych I, Lercher P. Associations of residential greenness, traffic noise, and air pollution with birth outcomes across Alpine areas. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 678:399-408. [PMID: 31077918 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2018] [Revised: 04/29/2019] [Accepted: 05/02/2019] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Aim This explorative study aimed to investigate the association of residential greenness, traffic noise, and air pollution with birth outcomes in several Alpine areas with unique topography. METHODS We used data from two cross-sectional studies (UIT, n = 573 and BBT, n = 518) in the Tyrol Region (Austria/Italy). Only mothers who had lived in their current residence during the whole pregnancy were included. They completed a questionnaire, and medical records were used to draw data on birth weight, low birth weight (LBW), preterm birth, and small for gestational age (SGA). Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) in the year of birth was assigned at the residential address as a measure of greenness. Road/railway traffic noise (Ldn) and air pollution (NO2) were calculated about 10 years after birth and used as surrogates for exposure levels during pregnancy. RESULTS In the UIT survey, higher NDVI500-m was consistently associated with lower odds for LBW and SGA, while an increase of Ldn was associated with higher odds for LBW. Other effect estimates were in the expected direction albeit non-significant. In the BBT survey, most findings were inconclusive (for NDVI) or present only in subgroups (for Ldn and NO2). CONCLUSION This study provides inconclusive evidence that the surrounding environment might be associated with birth outcomes in mountainous areas. Given the disparate associations across the study areas, further research in larger representative samples is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angel M Dzhambov
- Department of Hygiene and Ecomedicine, Faculty of Public Health, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
| | - Iana Markevych
- Institute and Clinic for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany; Institute of Epidemiology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany; Division of Metabolic and Nutritional Medicine, Dr. von Hauner Children's Hospital, Munich, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Peter Lercher
- Institute for Highway Engineering and Transport Planning, Graz University of Technology, Graz, Austria
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Rudolph KE, Shev A, Paksarian D, Merikangas KR, Mennitt DJ, James P, Casey JA. Environmental noise and sleep and mental health outcomes in a nationally representative sample of urban US adolescents. Environ Epidemiol 2019; 3:e056. [PMID: 31538137 PMCID: PMC6693982 DOI: 10.1097/ee9.0000000000000056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Environmental noise has been linked to negative health outcomes, like poor sleep, poor mental health, and cardiovascular disease, and likely accounts for more than 1 million disability-adjusted life years annually in Western Europe. Adolescence may be a particularly sensitive period for noise exposure due to an increased need for sleep, failure to meet sleep guidelines, and increased risk for first onset of some mental health disorders. However, the potential health effects of living in high-noise environments have not been studied in US adolescents, rarely in European adolescents, and mental health outcomes studied have not corresponded to diagnoses from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). METHODS Using a US-based nationally representative survey of urban adolescents (N = 4,508), we estimated associations of day-night average sound levels exceeding the US Environmental Protection Agency's 55 decibel limit with sleep outcomes and lifetime mental health DSM diagnoses. We implemented doubly robust targeted minimum loss-based estimation coupled with propensity score matching to account for numerous potential adolescent, household, and environmental confounders. RESULTS Living in a high- versus low-noise Census block group was associated with later bedtimes on weeknights (0.48 hours, 95% confidence interval [CI] = -0.15, 1.12) and weekend nights (0.65 hours, 95% CI = 0.37, 0.93), but not with total hours slept. Associations between living in a high- versus low-noise Census block group and mental disorders were mixed, with wide CIs, and not robust to sensitivity analyses. CONCLUSIONS We find evidence for an association between residence in a high-noise area and later bedtimes among urban adolescents but no consistent evidence of such an association with mental health disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kara E. Rudolph
- Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, California
| | - Aaron Shev
- Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, California
| | - Diana Paksarian
- Genetic Epidemiology Research Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Kathleen R. Merikangas
- Genetic Epidemiology Research Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Daniel J. Mennitt
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado
| | - Peter James
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Joan A. Casey
- Division of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, California
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Sayler SK, Roberts BJ, Manning MA, Sun K, Neitzel RL. Patterns and trends in OSHA occupational noise exposure measurements from 1979 to 2013. Occup Environ Med 2019; 76:118-124. [PMID: 30482879 PMCID: PMC9928427 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2018-105041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2018] [Revised: 09/18/2018] [Accepted: 11/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Noise is one of the most common exposures, and occupational noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is highly prevalent. In addition to NIHL, noise is linked to numerous non-auditory health effects. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) maintains the Integrated Management Information System (IMIS) database of compliance-related measurements performed in various industries across the USA. The goal of the current study was to describe and analyse personal noise measurements available through the OSHA IMIS, identifying industries with elevated personal noise levels or increasing trends in worker exposure over time. METHODS Through a Freedom of Information Act request, we obtained OSHA's noise measurements collected and stored in IMIS between 1979 and 2013 and analysed permissible exposure limit (PEL) and action level (AL) criteria measurements by two-digit industry code. RESULTS The manufacturing industry represented 87.8% of the 93 920 PEL measurements and 84.6% of the 58 073 AL measurements. The highest mean noise levels were found among the agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting industry for PEL (93.1 dBA) and the mining, quarrying and oil and gas extraction group for AL (93.3 dBA). Overall, measurements generally showed a decreasing trend in noise levels and exceedances of AL and PEL by year, although this was not true for all industries. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that, despite reductions in noise over time, further noise control interventions are warranted both inside and outside of the manufacturing industry. Further reductions in occupational noise exposures across many industries are necessary to continue to reduce the risk of occupational NIHL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie K. Sayler
- University of Michigan School of Public Health, Department of Environmental Health Sciences, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Benjamin J. Roberts
- University of Michigan School of Public Health, Department of Environmental Health Sciences, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA,Cardno ChemRisk, Chicago, Illinois 60602, USA
| | - Michael A. Manning
- University of Michigan School of Public Health, Department of Environmental Health Sciences, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Kan Sun
- University of Michigan School of Public Health, Department of Environmental Health Sciences, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Richard L. Neitzel
- University of Michigan School of Public Health, Department of Environmental Health Sciences, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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Khan KM, Bielko SL, McCullagh MC. Efficacy of hearing conservation education programs for youth and young adults: a systematic review. BMC Public Health 2018; 18:1286. [PMID: 30466413 PMCID: PMC6249850 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-018-6198-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2018] [Accepted: 11/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many youth and young adults experience high noise exposure compounded by lack of access to hearing health education. Although the need for hearing health education programs is evident, the efficacy of these programs for youth is unclear. We evaluated the literature for efficacy of various hearing conservation programs aimed at youth and young adults, and analyzed their strengths and limitations. METHODS Studies reporting results of hearing conservation or hearing loss prevention programs with youth or young adults, using randomized controlled trials, quasi-experimental designs, experimental design, or qualitative research, and published in peer-reviewed journals in English between 2001 and 2018 were included. Studies were found through searches of selected literature databases (i.e., PubMed, Google Scholar, NIOSH Toxline, and Scopus). Identified publications were assessed for relevance, and data were extracted from the studies deemed relevant. RESULTS A total of 10 studies were included. Very little evidence of efficacy of hearing conservation educational programs was found in these studies. Several methodological limitations including lack of rigorous study designs, inadequate power, and application of inappropriate statistical analysis were noted. Some use of technology in programs (e.g., smartphone apps, mobile phone text messages, and computers) was observed, but conclusions as to the effectiveness of these tools were limited by the small number of studies and small sample sizes. CONCLUSIONS The number of studies of educational hearing conservation programs for youth and young adults was low. The efficacy of the program was not reported in most studies, and it is difficult to draw public health conclusions from these studies due to their multiple methodological limitations. While use of technology in hearing conservation educational programs offers promise, its effectiveness has not been studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khalid M. Khan
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Indiana University-Bloomington, 1025 E Seventh Street, Room 025E, Bloomington, IN 47405 USA
| | - Sylvanna L. Bielko
- Department of Environmental Science, Public Health, and Sustainable Development, School of Applied and Natural Sciences, Taylor University, Upland, IN USA
| | - Marjorie C. McCullagh
- Department of Systems, Populations and Leadership, University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI USA
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Zare Sakhvidi F, Zare Sakhvidi MJ, Mehrparvar AH, Dzhambov AM. Environmental Noise Exposure and Neurodevelopmental and Mental Health Problems in Children: a Systematic Review. Curr Environ Health Rep 2018; 5:365-374. [DOI: 10.1007/s40572-018-0208-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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16
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Ma J, Li C, Kwan MP, Chai Y. A Multilevel Analysis of Perceived Noise Pollution, Geographic Contexts and Mental Health in Beijing. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15071479. [PMID: 30011780 PMCID: PMC6068638 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15071479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Revised: 07/07/2018] [Accepted: 07/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
With rapid urbanization and increase in car ownership, ambient noise pollution resulting from diversified sources (e.g., road traffic, railway, commercial services) has become a severe environmental problem in the populated areas in China. However, research on the spatial variation of noise pollution and its potential effects on urban residents’ mental health has to date been quite scarce in developing countries like China. Using a health survey conducted in Beijing in 2017, we for the first time investigated the spatial distributions of multiple noise pollution perceived by residents in Beijing, including road traffic noise, railway (or subway) noise, commercial noise, and housing renovation (or construction) noise. Our results indicate that there is geographic variability in noise pollution at the neighborhood scale, and road traffic and housing renovation/construction are the principal sources of noise pollution in Beijing. We then employed Bayesian multilevel logistic models to examine the associations between diversified noise pollution and urban residents’ mental health symptoms, including anxiety, stress, fatigue, headache, and sleep disturbance, while controlling for a wide range of confounding factors such as socio-demographics, objective built environment characteristics, social environment and geographic context. The results show that perceived higher noise-pollution exposure is significantly associated with worse mental health, while physical environment variables seem to contribute little to variations in self-reported mental disorders, except for proximity to the main road. Social factors or socio-demographic attributes, such as age and income, are significant covariates of urban residents’ mental health, while the social environment (i.e., community attachment) and housing satisfaction are significantly correlated with anxiety and stress. This study provides empirical evidence on the noise-health relationships in the Chinese context and sheds light on the policy implications for environmental pollution mitigation and healthy city development in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Ma
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Remote Sensing of Environment and Digital Cities, Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China.
| | - Chunjiang Li
- College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China.
| | - Mei-Po Kwan
- Department of Geography and Geographic Information Science, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Natural History Building, MC-150, 1301 W Green Street, Urbana, IL 61801, USA.
- Department of Human Geography and Spatial Planning, Faculty of Geosciences, Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80125, 3508 TC Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Yanwei Chai
- College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China.
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Firdaus G. Increasing Rate of Psychological Distress in Urban Households: How Does Income Matter? Community Ment Health J 2018; 54:641-648. [PMID: 29134397 DOI: 10.1007/s10597-017-0193-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2017] [Accepted: 11/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Numerous studies suggest 'social gradient' in health, but it is less clear whether every step up the socio-economic ladder improves health by the same degree. Based on 4326 households, the present study examines the relationship between household income and psychological distress while identifying specific risk factor in different income groups. Overall, 26.5% of sampled households were reported for being distressed. Work pressure (OR 2.0, p < 0.01) and reducing time for family/friends (OR 1.79, p < 0.01) in high-income group; overcrowding (OR 3.1, p < 0.001), lacking drinking water (OR 2.27, p < 0.001) and indoor noise pollution (OR 1.76, p < 0.001) in low income group and overcrowding (OR 3.1, p < 0.001), lacking affordable health care (OR 2.58, p < 0.001), and indoor noise pollution (OR 1.6, p < 0.001) in medium income group were significant predictors of psychological distress. People in lower income group are at greater risk of becoming distressed, but the higher income is not always the guarantor of psychological well-being.
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18
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Palumbo JR, Lin S, Lin Z, Neamtiu IA, Zhang W, Csobod E, Gurzau ES. Assessing associations between indoor environment and health symptoms in Romanian school children: an analysis of data from the SINPHONIE project. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 25:9186-9193. [PMID: 29473137 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-018-1568-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 02/13/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
School environment may have an impact on children's health, but few studies have focused on indoor comfort factors such as temperature, humidity, and noise in relation with potential effects on children's health. Our cross-sectional study used data from the European Schools Indoor Pollution and Health Observatory Network in Europe (SINPHONIE) project to assess children's allergy, asthma-like symptoms, and flu-like symptoms in relation with classroom comfort and environmental factors. The study used self-reported data from three questionnaires to identify classroom conditions and student health outcomes for 280 students. We used backwards variable selection and unconditional logistic regression to assess the outcome-environment relationship while controlling for demographics, family history of allergy, and home exposures. We found increased risks for allergy and flu-like symptoms associated with hot classrooms in the heating season, increased risks for asthma-like symptoms associated with noisy classrooms, and a protective effect for allergy associated with good outdoor air quality. Romanian classrooms rely on natural ventilation, which may contribute to increased temperature and humidity in the heating season. Further research warrants the use of SINPHONIE's measurement data to validate our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jillian R Palumbo
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University at Albany, State University of New York, 1 University Place, Rensselaer, NY, 12144, USA
| | - Shao Lin
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University at Albany, State University of New York, 1 University Place, Rensselaer, NY, 12144, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University at Albany, State University of New York, 1 University Place, Rensselaer, NY, 12144, USA
| | - Ziqiang Lin
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University at Albany, State University of New York, 1 University Place, Rensselaer, NY, 12144, USA
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, College of Arts and Sciences, University at Albany, State University of New York, 1400 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY, 12222, USA
| | - Iulia A Neamtiu
- Environmental Health Center, 58 Busuiocului Street, 400240, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Babes-Bolyai University, 30 Fantanele Street, Cluj- Napoca, Romania.
| | - Wangjian Zhang
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University at Albany, State University of New York, 1 University Place, Rensselaer, NY, 12144, USA
| | - Eva Csobod
- Regional Environmental Center for Central and Eastern Europe (REC), 9-11 Ady Endre ut, Szentendre, 2000, Hungary
| | - Eugen S Gurzau
- Environmental Health Center, 58 Busuiocului Street, 400240, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Babes-Bolyai University, 30 Fantanele Street, Cluj- Napoca, Romania
- Cluj School of Public Health-College of Political, Administrative and Communication Sciences, Babes-Bolyai University, 7 Pandurilor Street, Universitas Building, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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19
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Dzhambov A, Tilov B, Markevych I, Dimitrova D. Residential road traffic noise and general mental health in youth: The role of noise annoyance, neighborhood restorative quality, physical activity, and social cohesion as potential mediators. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2017; 109:1-9. [PMID: 28917129 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2017.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2017] [Revised: 08/26/2017] [Accepted: 09/09/2017] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Given the ubiquitous nature of both noise pollution and mental disorders, their alleged association has not escaped the spotlight of public health research. The effect of traffic noise on mental health is probably mediated by other factors, which have not been elucidated sufficiently. Herein, we aimed to disentangle the pathways linking road traffic noise to general mental health in Bulgarian youth, with a focus on several candidate mediators - noise annoyance, perceived restorative quality of the living environment, physical activity, and neighborhood social cohesion. A cross-sectional sample was collected in October - December 2016 in the city of Plovdiv, Bulgaria. It consisted of 399 students aged 15-25years, recruited from two high schools and three universities. Road traffic noise exposure (Lden) was derived from the strategic noise map of Plovdiv. Mental health was measured with the 12-item form of the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12). Noise annoyance, perceived restorative quality of the living environment, commuting and leisure time physical activity, and neighborhood social cohesion were assessed using validated questionnaires. Analyses were based on linear regression mediation models and a structural equation modeling (SEM) to account for the hypothesized interdependencies between candidate mediators. Results showed that higher noise exposure was associated with worse mental health only indirectly. More specifically, tests of the single and parallel mediation models indicated independent indirect paths through noise annoyance, social cohesion, and physical activity. In addition, the SEM revealed that more noise annoyance was associated with less social cohesion, and in turn with worse mental health; noise annoyance was also associated with lower neighborhood restorative quality, thereby with less social cohesion and physical activity, and in turn with worse mental health. However, causality could not be established. Further research is warranted to expand our still limited understanding of these person-environment interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angel Dzhambov
- Department of Hygiene and Ecomedicine, Faculty of Public Health, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
| | - Boris Tilov
- Medical College, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria; Department of Management, Faculty of Economics and Management, University of Agribusiness and Rural Development, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Iana Markevych
- Institute for Occupational, Social, and Environmental Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich, Munich, Germany; Institute of Epidemiology I, Helmholtz Zentrum München - German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Donka Dimitrova
- Department of Health Management and Healthcare Economics, Faculty of Public Health, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
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21
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Bradley RH, Pennar A, Fuligni A, Whiteside-Mansell L. Assessing the home environment during mid- and late-adolescence. APPLIED DEVELOPMENTAL SCIENCE 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/10888691.2017.1284593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Amy Pennar
- Wayne State University School of Medicine
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22
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Hays J, McCawley M, Shonkoff SBC. Public health implications of environmental noise associated with unconventional oil and gas development. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2017; 580:448-456. [PMID: 27939937 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.11.118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2016] [Revised: 10/31/2016] [Accepted: 11/17/2016] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Modern oil and gas development frequently occurs in close proximity to human populations and increased levels of ambient noise have been documented throughout some phases of development. Numerous studies have evaluated air and water quality degradation and human exposure pathways, but few have evaluated potential health risks and impacts from environmental noise exposure. We reviewed the scientific literature on environmental noise exposure to determine the potential concerns, if any, that noise from oil and gas development activities present to public health. Data on noise levels associated with oil and gas development are limited, but measurements can be evaluated amidst the large body of epidemiology assessing the non-auditory effects of environmental noise exposure and established public health guidelines for community noise. There are a large number of noise dependent and subjective factors that make the determination of a dose response relationship between noise and health outcomes difficult. However, the literature indicates that oil and gas activities produce noise at levels that may increase the risk of adverse health outcomes, including annoyance, sleep disturbance, and cardiovascular disease. More studies that investigate the relationships between noise exposure and human health risks from unconventional oil and gas development are warranted. Finally, policies and mitigation techniques that limit human exposure to noise from oil and gas operations should be considered to reduce health risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jake Hays
- PSE Healthy Energy, New York, NY, USA; Department of Healthcare Policy and Research, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Michael McCawley
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Seth B C Shonkoff
- PSE Healthy Energy, Oakland, CA, USA; Department of Environmental Science, Policy, and Management, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA; Environmental Energy Technologies Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA
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23
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Guo L, Li PH, Li H, Colicino E, Colicino S, Wen Y, Zhang R, Feng X, Barrow TM, Cayir A, Baccarelli AA, Byun HM. Effects of environmental noise exposure on DNA methylation in the brain and metabolic health. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2017; 153:73-82. [PMID: 27914298 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2016.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2016] [Revised: 11/22/2016] [Accepted: 11/23/2016] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Environmental noise exposure is associated with adverse effects on human health including hearing loss, heart disease, and changes in stress-related hormone levels. Alteration in DNA methylation in response to environmental exposures is a well-known phenomenon and it is implicated in many human diseases. Understanding how environmental noise exposures affect DNA methylation patterns may help to elucidate the link between noise and adverse effects on health. In this pilot study we examined the effects of environmental noise exposure on DNA methylation of genes related to brain function and investigated whether these changes are related with metabolic health. We exposed four groups of male Wistar rats to moderate intensity noise (70-75dB with 20-4000Hz) at night for three days as short-term exposure, and for three weeks as long-term exposure. Noise exposure was limited to 45dB during the daytime. Control groups were exposed to only 45dB, day and night. We measured DNA methylation in the Bdnf, Comt, Crhr1, Mc2r, and Snca genes in tissue from four brain regions of the rats (hippocampus, frontal lobe, medulla oblongata, and inferior colliculus). Further, we measured blood pressure and body weight after long-term noise exposure. We found that environmental noise exposure is associated with gene-specific DNA methylation changes in specific regions of the brain. Changes in DNA methylation are significantly associated with changes in body weight (between Bdnf DNA methylation and Δ body weight: r=0.59, p=0.018; and between LINE-1 ORF DNA methylation and Δ body weight: =-0.80, p=0.0004). We also observed that noise exposure decreased blood pressure (p=0.038 for SBP, p=0.017 for DBP and p 0. 017 for MAP) and decreased body weight (β=-26g, p=0.008). In conclusion, environmental noise exposures can induce changes in DNA methylation in the brain, which may be associated with adverse effects upon metabolic health through modulation of response to stress-related hormones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liqiong Guo
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Peng-Hui Li
- School of Environmental Science and Safety Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, Tianjin 300384, China
| | - Hua Li
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning 116044, China
| | - Elena Colicino
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Silvia Colicino
- Respiratory Epidemiology, Occupational Medicine and Public Health, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
| | - Yi Wen
- Department of Radiology, No. 531 Hospital of the PLA, Tonghua, Jilin 134000, China
| | - Ruiping Zhang
- Department of Radiology, No. 531 Hospital of the PLA, Tonghua, Jilin 134000, China
| | - Xiaotian Feng
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Mineral Processing and Bioengineering, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410083, China
| | - Timothy M Barrow
- Northern Institute for Cancer Research, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, United Kingdom
| | - Akin Cayir
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | | | - Hyang-Min Byun
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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Built Environment and Health Outcomes: Identification of Contextual Risk Factors for Mental Well-being of Older Adults. AGEING INTERNATIONAL 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s12126-016-9276-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Hjortebjerg D, Andersen AMN, Christensen JS, Ketzel M, Raaschou-Nielsen O, Sunyer J, Julvez J, Forns J, Sørensen M. Exposure to Road Traffic Noise and Behavioral Problems in 7-Year-Old Children: A Cohort Study. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2016; 124:228-34. [PMID: 26126294 PMCID: PMC4749080 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.1409430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2014] [Accepted: 06/25/2015] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to traffic noise has been associated with adverse effects on neuropsychological outcomes in children, but findings with regard to behavioral problems are inconsistent. OBJECTIVE We investigated whether residential road traffic noise exposure is associated with behavioral problems in 7-year-old children. METHODS We identified 46,940 children from the Danish National Birth Cohort with complete information on behavioral problems at 7 years of age and complete address history from conception to 7 years of age. Road traffic noise (Lden) was modeled at all present and historical addresses. Behavioral problems were assessed by the parent-reported Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). Associations between pregnancy and childhood exposure to noise and behavioral problems were analyzed by multinomial or logistic regression and adjusted for potential confounders. RESULTS A 10-dB increase in average time-weighted road traffic noise exposure from birth to 7 years of age was associated with a 7% increase (95% CI: 1.00, 1.14) in abnormal versus normal total difficulties scores; 5% (95% CI: 1.00, 1.10) and 9% (95% CI: 1.03, 1.18) increases in borderline and abnormal hyperactivity/inattention subscale scores, respectively; and 5% (95% CI: 0.98, 1.14) and 6% (95% CI: 0.99, 1.12) increases in abnormal conduct problem and peer relationship problem subscale scores, respectively. Exposure to road traffic noise during pregnancy was not associated with child behavioral problems at 7 years of age. CONCLUSIONS Residential road traffic noise in early childhood may be associated with behavioral problems, particularly hyperactivity/inattention symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorrit Hjortebjerg
- Danish Cancer Society Research Centre, Danish Cancer Society, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Dreger S, Meyer N, Fromme H, Bolte G. Environmental noise and incident mental health problems: A prospective cohort study among school children in Germany. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2015; 143:49-54. [PMID: 26433757 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2015.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2015] [Revised: 08/05/2015] [Accepted: 08/06/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Environmental noise is considered a threat to public health as 20% of the EU population is exposed to health influencing noise levels. An association of noise and mental health problems in children has been suggested by some studies, but results are not consistent and there are no longitudinal studies of this association. Our aim was to investigate the influence of different environmental noise sources at children's homes on incident mental health problems in school-aged children. METHOD A cohort study of children from first (t0) to fourth grade (t1) of primary school was conducted. Different environmental noise sources (day/night separately) at children's home were assessed via parental annoyance reports. Increased noise exposure between t0 and t1 was the exposure variable. Incident mental health problems were assessed with the parental version of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). RRs and 95% CIs were analysed to investigate the association between different noise sources and incident mental health problems. RESULTS The study population consisted of 583 boys and 602 girls. The most common increase in noise exposure between t0 and t1 was road traffic noise day (26.38%). After adjusting for covariates exposure to road traffic night was significantly associated with the total difficulties score (RR=2.06; 95% CI=1.25-3.40), emotional symptoms (RR=1.69, 95% CI=1.04-2.72), and conduct problems (RR=1.57, 95% CI=1.04-2.38). Noise by neighbours during the day was associated with conduct problems (RR=1.62, 95% CI=1.11-2.40) and hyperactivity (RR=1.69, 95% CI=1.08-2.65). Aircraft noise day and construction work day were not associated with any of the SDQ categories at a significant level. CONCLUSION Environmental noise is an important public health problem. This is the first study to investigate the association of a broad range of noise sources and incident mental health problems in children in a cohort study. Our results suggest that exposure to noise at children's home is associated with mental health problems such as emotional symptoms, conduct problems and hyperactivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Dreger
- Department of Social Epidemiology, Institute for Public Health and Nursing Research, University of Bremen, Grazer Straße 4, 28359 Bremen, Germany; Health Sciences Bremen, University of Bremen, Germany.
| | - Nicole Meyer
- Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Munich, Germany
| | - Hermann Fromme
- Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Munich, Germany
| | - Gabriele Bolte
- Department of Social Epidemiology, Institute for Public Health and Nursing Research, University of Bremen, Grazer Straße 4, 28359 Bremen, Germany; Health Sciences Bremen, University of Bremen, Germany; Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Munich, Germany
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Braubach M, Tobollik M, Mudu P, Hiscock R, Chapizanis D, Sarigiannis DA, Keuken M, Perez L, Martuzzi M. Development of a quantitative methodology to assess the impacts of urban transport interventions and related noise on well-being. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2015; 12:5792-814. [PMID: 26016437 PMCID: PMC4483672 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph120605792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2015] [Revised: 05/07/2015] [Accepted: 05/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Well-being impact assessments of urban interventions are a difficult challenge, as there is no agreed methodology and scarce evidence on the relationship between environmental conditions and well-being. The European Union (EU) project “Urban Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions in China and Europe” (URGENCHE) explored a methodological approach to assess traffic noise-related well-being impacts of transport interventions in three European cities (Basel, Rotterdam and Thessaloniki) linking modeled traffic noise reduction effects with survey data indicating noise-well-being associations. Local noise models showed a reduction of high traffic noise levels in all cities as a result of different urban interventions. Survey data indicated that perception of high noise levels was associated with lower probability of well-being. Connecting the local noise exposure profiles with the noise-well-being associations suggests that the urban transport interventions may have a marginal but positive effect on population well-being. This paper also provides insight into the methodological challenges of well-being assessments and highlights the range of limitations arising from the current lack of reliable evidence on environmental conditions and well-being. Due to these limitations, the results should be interpreted with caution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Braubach
- European Centre for Environment and Health, World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Europe, Platz der Vereinten Nationen 1, 53113 Bonn, Germany.
| | - Myriam Tobollik
- Federal Environment Agency, Section II 1.6 Exposure Assessment and Environmental Health Indicators, 14195 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Pierpaolo Mudu
- European Centre for Environment and Health, World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Europe, Platz der Vereinten Nationen 1, 53113 Bonn, Germany.
| | - Rosemary Hiscock
- School of Geographical Sciences, University of Bristol, University Road, Bristol BS8 1SS, UK.
| | - Dimitris Chapizanis
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Environmental Engineering Laboratory, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece.
| | - Denis A Sarigiannis
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Environmental Engineering Laboratory, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece.
| | - Menno Keuken
- Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), 3508 TA Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Laura Perez
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Socinstr. 57, 4002 Basel, Switzerland.
- University of Basel, Peterspl. 1, 4003 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Marco Martuzzi
- European Centre for Environment and Health, World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Europe, Platz der Vereinten Nationen 1, 53113 Bonn, Germany.
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Firdaus G, Ahmad A. Temporal variation in risk factors and prevalence rate of depression in urban population: does the urban environment play a significant role? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MENTAL HEALTH PROMOTION 2014. [DOI: 10.1080/14623730.2014.931068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Pujol S, Levain JP, Houot H, Petit R, Berthillier M, Defrance J, Lardies J, Masselot C, Mauny F. Association between ambient noise exposure and school performance of children living in an urban area: a cross-sectional population-based study. J Urban Health 2014; 91:256-71. [PMID: 24190106 PMCID: PMC3978148 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-013-9843-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Most of the studies investigating the effects of the external noise on children's school performance have concerned pupils in schools exposed to high levels due to aircraft or freeway traffic noise. However, little is known about the consequences of the chronic ambient noise exposure at a level commonly encountered in residential urban areas. This study aimed to assess the relationship between the school performance of 8- to 9-year-old-children living in an urban environment and their chronic ambient noise exposure at home and at school. The children's school performances on the national standardized assessment test in French and mathematics were compared with the environmental noise levels. Children's exposure to ambient noise was calculated in front of their bedrooms (Lden) and schools (LAeq,day) using noise prediction modeling. Questionnaires were distributed to the families to collect potential confounding factors. Among the 746 respondent children, 586 were included in multilevel analyses. On average, the LAeq,day at school was 51.5 dB (SD= 4.5 dB; range = 38-58 dB) and the outdoor Lden at home was 56.4 dB (SD= 4.4 dB; range = 44-69 dB). LAeq,day at school was associated with impaired mathematics score (p = 0.02) or impaired French score (p = 0.01). For a + 10 dB gap, the French and mathematics scores were on average lower by about 5.5 points. Lden at home was significantly associated with impaired French performance when considered alone (p < 10(-3)) and was borderline significant when the combined home-school exposure was considered (p = 0.06). The magnitude of the observed effect on school performance may appear modest, but should be considered in light of the number of people who are potentially chronically exposed to similar environmental noise levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Pujol
- Chrono-environnement laboratory, UMR 6249 CNRS/Université de Franche-Comté, Besançon, France,
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Hammer MS, Swinburn TK, Neitzel RL. Environmental noise pollution in the United States: developing an effective public health response. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2014; 122:115-9. [PMID: 24311120 PMCID: PMC3915267 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.1307272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2013] [Accepted: 11/25/2013] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tens of millions of Americans suffer from a range of adverse health outcomes due to noise exposure, including heart disease and hearing loss. Reducing environmental noise pollution is achievable and consistent with national prevention goals, yet there is no national plan to reduce environmental noise pollution. OBJECTIVES We aimed to describe some of the most serious health effects associated with noise, summarize exposures from several highly prevalent noise sources based on published estimates as well as extrapolations made using these estimates, and lay out proven mechanisms and strategies to reduce noise by incorporating scientific insight and technological innovations into existing public health infrastructure. DISCUSSION We estimated that 104 million individuals had annual LEQ(24) levels > 70 dBA (equivalent to a continuous average exposure level of >70 dBA over 24 hr) in 2013 and were at risk of noise-induced hearing loss. Tens of millions more may be at risk of heart disease, and other noise-related health effects. Direct regulation, altering the informational environment, and altering the built environment are the least costly, most logistically feasible, and most effective noise reduction interventions. CONCLUSION Significant public health benefit can be achieved by integrating interventions that reduce environmental noise levels and exposures into the federal public health agenda.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica S Hammer
- The Network for Public Health Law-Mid-States Region, The University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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Marais L, Sharp C, Pappin M, Lenka M, Cloete J, Skinner D, Serekoane J. Housing conditions and mental health of orphans in South Africa. Health Place 2013; 24:23-9. [PMID: 24013088 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2013.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2013] [Revised: 07/29/2013] [Accepted: 08/10/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Literature from the developed world suggests that poor housing conditions and housing environments contribute to poor mental health outcomes, although research results are mixed. This study investigates the relationship between housing conditions and the socio-emotional health of orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) in South Africa. The results of the study are mainly inconclusive, although it is suggested that methodological considerations play a vital role in explaining the mixed results. However, a positive relationship was found between living in informal settlements and better socio-emotional health of the OVC. We speculate that the historical context of informal settlement formation in South Africa helps to explain this unexpected result.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lochner Marais
- Centre for Development Support, University of the Free State, South Africa.
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Lercher P, Evans GW, Widmann U. The ecological context of soundscapes for children's blood pressure. THE JOURNAL OF THE ACOUSTICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA 2013; 134:773-781. [PMID: 23862883 PMCID: PMC4109089 DOI: 10.1121/1.4807808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2012] [Revised: 09/11/2012] [Accepted: 12/03/2012] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Although the majority of studies on community noise levels and children's physiological stress responses are positive, effect sizes vary considerably, and some studies do not confirm these effects. Employing a contextual perspective congruent with soundscapes, a carefully constructed sample of children (N = 115, M = 10.1 yr) living in households in relatively high (>60 dBA) or low (<50 dBA) noise areas created by proximity to major traffic arterials in Austria was reanalyzed. Several personal and environmental factors known to affect resting cardiovascular parameters measured under well-controlled, clinical conditions were incorporated into the analyses. Children with premature births and elevated chronic stress (i.e., overnight cortisol) were more susceptible to adverse blood pressure responses to road traffic noise. Residence in a multi-dwelling unit as well as standardized assessments of perceived quietness of the area did not modify the traffic noise impacts but each had its own, independent effect on resting blood pressure. A primary air pollutant associated with traffic volume (NO2) had no influence on any of these results. The scope of environmental noise assessment and management would benefit from incorporation of a more contextualized approach as suggested by the soundscape perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Lercher
- Division of Social Medicine, Medical University Innsbruck, Sonnenburgstrasse 16, A-6020 Innsbruck. Austria.
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Ferguson KT, Cassells RC, MacAllister JW, Evans GW. The physical environment and child development: an international review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2013; 48:437-68. [PMID: 23808797 PMCID: PMC4489931 DOI: 10.1080/00207594.2013.804190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2012] [Accepted: 04/01/2013] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
A growing body of research in the United States and Western Europe documents significant effects of the physical environment (toxins, pollutants, noise, crowding, chaos, and housing, school and neighborhood quality) on children and adolescents' cognitive and socioemotional development. Much less is known about these relations in other contexts, particularly the global South. We thus briefly review the evidence for relations between child development and the physical environment in Western contexts, and discuss some of the known mechanisms behind these relations. We then provide a more extensive review of the research to date outside of Western contexts, with a specific emphasis on research in the global South. Where the research is limited, we highlight relevant data documenting the physical environment conditions experienced by children, and make recommendations for future work. In these recommendations, we highlight the limitations of employing research methodologies developed in Western contexts (Ferguson & Lee, 2013). Finally, we propose a holistic, multidisciplinary, and multilevel approach based on Bronfenbrenner's (1979) bioecological model to better understand and reduce the aversive effects of multiple environmental risk factors on the cognitive and socioemotional development of children across the globe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim T Ferguson
- Psychology Faculty Group, Sarah Lawrence College, Bronxville, NY, USA.
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Persson Waye K, van Kamp I, Dellve L. Validation of a questionnaire measuring preschool children's reactions to and coping with noise in a repeated measurement design. BMJ Open 2013; 3:e002408. [PMID: 23793676 PMCID: PMC3657644 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2012-002408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2012] [Revised: 03/15/2013] [Accepted: 04/11/2013] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of the study was to explore and describe the reliability and validity of an instrument to measure preschool children's reactions to and coping with indoor noise at preschools or day care centres. DESIGN Data were derived from an acoustical before and after intervention study providing repeated measurements. SETTING The study was performed at seven preschools in Mölndal, Sweden. PARTICIPANTS Children were recruited from these preschools and the final sample comprised 61 and 59 preschool children aged 4-5 years, with a response rate of 98% and 48% girls and 52% boys. Two children were excluded from analysis because they fell outside the age range. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES The instrument was developed based on a qualitative study performed in Swedish preschools. Questions pertained to preschool children's perception of noise when at school, their bodily and emotional reactions to it, non-specific symptoms and the coping strategies used by them to diminish the detrimental effects of the noise. RESULTS Confirmative factor analysis yielded a three-factor model fitted to 10 items pertaining to angry reactions, symptoms and coping. The model fit was moderate to good (standardised root mean square residual=0.08, 0.12; adjusted goodness of fit=0.97/0.91) in the before and after conditions, respectively. The scales showed moderate to good reliability in terms of internal consistency, with an α ranging between 0.52 and 0.67, and was stronger in the before condition. Concurrent validity was strongest for symptoms by comparing groups based on bodily reaction (general and sound specific). CONCLUSIONS Young children's emotional and bodily reactions to coping with noise can be reliably measured with this instrument. Like adults and older children, young children are able to distinguish between emotional reactions, bodily reactions, coping and unwell-being. Future research on larger groups of preschool children is needed to further refine the questions, in particular the questions pertaining to well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerstin Persson Waye
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Irene van Kamp
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Centre for Environmental Health Research, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Lotta Dellve
- Department of Ergonomics, Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
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Dellve L, Samuelsson L, Waye KP. Preschool Children's Experience and Understanding of Their Soundscape. QUALITATIVE RESEARCH IN PSYCHOLOGY 2012. [DOI: 10.1080/14780887.2011.586099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Clark C, Crombie R, Head J, van Kamp I, van Kempen E, Stansfeld SA. Does traffic-related air pollution explain associations of aircraft and road traffic noise exposure on children's health and cognition? A secondary analysis of the United Kingdom sample from the RANCH project. Am J Epidemiol 2012; 176:327-37. [PMID: 22842719 PMCID: PMC3415279 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kws012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The authors examined whether air pollution at school (nitrogen dioxide) is associated with poorer child cognition and health and whether adjustment for air pollution explains or moderates previously observed associations between aircraft and road traffic noise at school and children's cognition in the 2001–2003 Road Traffic and Aircraft Noise Exposure and Children's Cognition and Health (RANCH) project. This secondary analysis of a subsample of the United Kingdom RANCH sample examined 719 children who were 9–10 years of age from 22 schools around London's Heathrow airport for whom air pollution data were available. Data were analyzed using multilevel modeling. Air pollution exposure levels at school were moderate, were not associated with a range of cognitive and health outcomes, and did not account for or moderate associations between noise exposure and cognition. Aircraft noise exposure at school was significantly associated with poorer recognition memory and conceptual recall memory after adjustment for nitrogen dioxide levels. Aircraft noise exposure was also associated with poorer reading comprehension and information recall memory after adjustment for nitrogen dioxide levels. Road traffic noise was not associated with cognition or health before or after adjustment for air pollution. Moderate levels of air pollution do not appear to confound associations of noise on cognition and health, but further studies of higher air pollution levels are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Clark
- Centre for Psychiatry, Barts and The London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom.
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Kight CR, Swaddle JP. How and why environmental noise impacts animals: an integrative, mechanistic review. Ecol Lett 2011; 14:1052-61. [PMID: 21806743 DOI: 10.1111/j.1461-0248.2011.01664.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 283] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The scope and magnitude of anthropogenic noise pollution are often much greater than those of natural noise and are predicted to have an array of deleterious effects on wildlife. Recent work on this topic has focused mainly on behavioural responses of animals exposed to noise. Here, by outlining the effects of acoustic stimuli on animal physiology, development, neural function and genetic effects, we advocate the use of a more mechanistic approach in anthropogenic environments. Specifically, we summarise evidence and hypotheses from research on laboratory, domestic and free-living animals exposed to biotic and abiotic stimuli, studied both observationally and experimentally. We hope that this molecular- and cellular-focused literature, which examines the effects of noise on the neuroendocrine system, reproduction and development, metabolism, cardiovascular health, cognition and sleep, audition, the immune system, and DNA integrity and gene expression, will help researchers better understand results of previous work, as well as identify new avenues of future research in anthropogenic environments. Furthermore, given the interconnectedness of these physiological, cellular and genetic processes, and their effects on behaviour and fitness, we suggest that much can be learned from a more integrative framework of how and why animals are affected by environmental noise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin R Kight
- Institute for Integrated Bird Behavior Studies, Biology Department, College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, VA, USA.
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Crombie R, Clark C, Stansfeld SA. Environmental noise exposure, early biological risk and mental health in nine to ten year old children: a cross-sectional field study. Environ Health 2011; 10:39. [PMID: 21569605 PMCID: PMC3117762 DOI: 10.1186/1476-069x-10-39] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2010] [Accepted: 05/14/2011] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous research suggests that children born prematurely or with a low birth weight are more vulnerable to the mental health effects of ambient neighbourhood noise; predominantly road and rail noise, at home. This study used data from the Road Traffic and Aircraft Noise Exposure and Children's Cognition and Health (RANCH) study to see if this finding extends to aircraft and road traffic noise at school. METHODS Children and their parents from schools around three European airports were selected to represent a range of aircraft and road traffic noise exposure levels. Birth weight and gestation period were merged to create a dichotomous variable assessing 'early biological risk'. Mental health was assessed using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). Complete data were available for 1900 primary school children. RESULTS Children who were 'at risk' (i.e. low birth weight or premature birth) were rated as having more conduct problems and emotional symptoms and poorer overall mental health than children not at risk. However, there was no interaction between aircraft or road traffic noise exposure at school and early biological risk. CONCLUSIONS Data from the RANCH study suggests that children with early biological risk are not more vulnerable to the effects of aircraft or road traffic noise at school on mental health than children without this risk; however they are more likely to have mental ill-health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosanna Crombie
- Queen Mary, University of London, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Wolfson Institute of Preventive Medicine, Centre for Psychiatry, Room 103, Old Anatomy Building, Charterhouse Square, EC1M 6BQ, London
| | - Charlotte Clark
- Queen Mary, University of London, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Wolfson Institute of Preventive Medicine, Centre for Psychiatry, Room 103, Old Anatomy Building, Charterhouse Square, EC1M 6BQ, London
| | - Stephen A Stansfeld
- Queen Mary, University of London, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Wolfson Institute of Preventive Medicine, Centre for Psychiatry, Room 103, Old Anatomy Building, Charterhouse Square, EC1M 6BQ, London
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Sobotova L, Jurkovicova J, Stefanikova Z, Sevcikova L, Aghova L. Community response to environmental noise and the impact on cardiovascular risk score. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2010; 408:1264-1270. [PMID: 20060571 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2009.12.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2009] [Revised: 12/15/2009] [Accepted: 12/17/2009] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of our study was to investigate and evaluate the relationship between road traffic noise and cardiovascular risk. METHODS The study sample (n=659; 36.9% male, 63.1% female university students, mean age 22.83+/-1.58 years) included a group exposed to road traffic noise (n=280, L(eq,24h)=67+/-2dB(A)) and a control group (n=379, L(eq,24h)=58.7+/-6dB(A)). Subjective response was determined by a validated noise annoyance questionnaire. The ten year risk of developing a coronary heart disease event was quantified as an evaluation of cardiovascular risk (SCORE60, Framingham 10-year risk estimation and projection to the age of 60, relative risk SCORE chart). RESULTS Cardiovascular risk scores were significantly higher in the exposed group based on the Framingham scores projected to the age of 60, SCORE60 (AOR=2.72 (95% CI=1.21-6.15)) and the relative risk SCORE chart (AOR=2.81 (1.46-5.41)). CONCLUSIONS These findings highlight the association between road traffic noise and cardiovascular risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lubica Sobotova
- Institute of Hygiene, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovak Republic.
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Golding J, Jones R, Preece A, Bruné MN, Pronczuk J. Choice of environmental components for a longitudinal birth cohort study. Paediatr Perinat Epidemiol 2009; 23 Suppl 1:134-53. [PMID: 19490453 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3016.2009.01014.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Various aspects of the environment of the mother and child may have major influences on the health and development of the child. Long-term influences can even affect chronic diseases of adulthood. Here we describe the major psychosocial and physical environmental factors that should be measured in longitudinal birth cohort studies.
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Abstract
Characteristics of the physical environment that influence child development are discussed. Topics include behavioral toxicology, noise, crowding, housing and neighborhood quality, natural settings, schools, and day care settings. Socioemotional, cognitive, motivation, and psychophysiological outcomes in children and youths are reviewed. Necessary methodological and conceptual advances are introduced as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary W Evans
- Department of Design and Environmental Analysis, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853-4401, USA.
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Abstract
The built environment has direct and indirect effects on mental health. High-rise housing is inimical to the psychological well-being of women with young children. Poor-quality housing appears to increase psychological distress, but methodological issues make it difficult to draw clear conclusions. Mental health of psychiatric patients has been linked to design elements that affect their ability to regulate social interaction (e.g., furniture configuration, privacy). Alzheimer's patients adjust better to small-scale, homier facilities that also have lower levels of stimulation. They are also better adjusted in buildings that accommodate physical wandering. Residential crowding (number of people per room) and loud exterior noise sources (e.g., airports) elevate psychological distress but do not produce serious mental illness. Malodorous air pollutants heighten negative affect, and some toxins (e.g., lead, solvents) cause behavioral disturbances (e.g., self-regulatory ability, aggression). Insufficient daylight is reliably associated with increased depressive symptoms. Indirectly, the physical environment may influence mental health by altering psychosocial processes with known mental health sequelae. Personal control, socially supportive relationships, and restoration from stress and fatigue are all affected by properties of the built environment. More prospective, longitudinal studies and, where feasible, randomized experiments are needed to examine the potential role of the physical environment in mental health. Even more challenging is the task of developing underlying models of how the built environment can affect mental health. It is also likely that some individuals may be more vulnerable to mental health impacts of the built environment. Because exposure to poor environmental conditions is not randomly distributed and tends to concentrate among the poor and ethnic minorities, we also need to focus more attention on the health implications of multiple environmental risk exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary W Evans
- Department of Design and Environmental Analysis and Human Development, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
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