Traffic Noise in Early Childhood: A Risk to Children's Mental Health at Age 10.

In this study published in The Lancet Public Health, researchers examined the associations between various sources of residential noise exposure (from road, air, and rail traffic) and emotional and behavioral symptoms in children.

The scientists drew on data from nearly 8,000 children in the ELFE cohort, who were followed from birth until they were 10 and a half years old. Using public data and modeling techniques, the scientists were able to estimate each child’s average noise exposure at their home.

The results show that children persistently exposed to high levels of traffic noise (i.e., 60 dB[A] or higher) from birth through age 5½ exhibit higher levels of internalized symptoms at age 10½, particularly in terms of emotional difficulties and difficulties interacting with other children.

Read the article here