What's Up Docs? Is our noisy world killing us?
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Aug 26, 2025 Professor Charlotte Clark, an Environmental Epidemiologist and Director at the Population Health Research Institute, shares her expertise on the detrimental effects of environmental noise. She discusses how long-term exposure to transport noise can lead to severe cardiovascular and mental health issues. The conversation highlights the dual nature of noise and silence, and practical strategies for mitigating noise pollution in urban environments. They also touch on innovative solutions like digital nature environments for enhancing well-being amid stress.
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Personal Experience Of Hearing Loss
- Chris Van Tulleken describes losing hearing in one ear and finding the world subjectively noisier and more stressful.
- He lists everyday triggers like drilling, air conditioners and traffic that now drive him 'bonkers.'
Noise Is A Population Health Risk
- Long-term exposure to transport noise contributes to diseases that shorten life, like heart disease and diabetes.
- The European Environment Agency estimates noise causes about 1% of premature mortality annually across Europe.
How Noise Harms The Body
- Noise triggers fight-or-flight responses that raise heart rate, blood pressure and blood glucose.
- Chronic activation of these pathways produces inflammation and long-term cardiovascular and metabolic disease.