Exposure to Noise and Well-being in South Germany

Abstract

SM2-PD-08 Introduction: So far, most noise studies took only one source of noise exposure into account (eg, aircraft or traffic noise). The aim of this study was to assess the individual noise exposure of different age groups using personal monitoring in an inner-city general population sample. Methods: Within this population-based cross-sectional survey, a random sample of 268 children, 310 adolescents, and 430 adults living in a big city were invited to take part in the study. Personal noise exposure was assessed using Larson Davies dosimeters (lower sensitivity range, 40 dB [A], dynamic range, 75 dB [A]). For each subject, individual exposure levels were assessed every 5 seconds over a 24-hour period. Mean exposure levels with 95% confidence intervals were analyzed stratified for age group and by time of the day. In addition, personal exposure levels during school holidays were compared with those during the school year. Results: The overall response rate was 63%. During morning and afternoon hours, mean levels of noise exposure were significantly higher among children as compared with adolescents and adults. In contrast, children had significantly lower levels of noise exposure during the night. Morning exposure levels were significantly lower for measurements done during school holidays as compared with those obtained during the school year. Conclusions: During daytime, higher levels of noise exposure might be seen in children. Part of this exposure might be self-induced by, eg, activities at the schoolyard. In order to assess differences in noise exposure between urban and rural areas, 2 rural towns will be included in the study. In addition, the potential association between exposure and well-being will be analyzed.