Noise and Your Health

Not all sound enhances health and happiness in the way that music does. In fact, constant exposure to noise over time can impair health far beyond the obvious issue of possible hearing loss. A few years ago, studies found that airport noise increases the risk of stroke. Other studies have found that the type of quiet background buzz we hear in offices can impair cognitive function. And now, new research has determined that traffic sounds increase heart attack risk, and by a substantial margin. Jon Barron discusses the cardiovascular health affects of traffic noise that will make you more aware of the sound environment around you.