A new article by Consumer Reports published on the Washington Post website compiles recent research on the myriad ways loud noise can negatively affect health apart from hearing loss.
A 2018 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) study mentioned in the article found higher rates of hypertension and high cholesterol in people regularly exposed to loud noise at work, and another study from the same year found an association between loud music and the purchase of unhealthy foods and beverages in grocery stores and restaurants.
Additionally, children exposed to loud noise in their environment may score lower on reading comprehension tests and may have poorer long-term memory, the article points out.
Consumer Reports suggests wearing ear protection like earmuffs or earplugs during loud concerts, sporting events, and even some exercise classes; limiting exposure to loud power equipment around the house, and being aware of how much time is spent listening to music or podcasts via headphones.
To read the article in its entirety, please click here.
Source: Consumer Reports, Washington Post