Living near busy roads may do more than disrupt your sleep. A new large-scale study suggests that long-term exposure to road traffic noise could be linked to a slightly higher risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.
Researchers analyzed health data from more than 3.1 million people in Denmark, examining traffic noise exposure at participants’ homes over a 10-year period. They compared noise levels at the loudest and quietest sides of residential buildings to better understand the potential impact on brain health.
The findings showed that for every 11.5-decibel increase in road traffic noise at the most exposed side of a home, the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease increased by 3%. The association remained consistent regardless of age, income, education, sex, or where participants lived.
Interestingly, people whose homes had a quiet-facing side appeared to have a lower risk than those constantly exposed to higher levels of traffic noise. Researchers believe reducing chronic noise exposure may help protect long-term neurological health, although more research is needed to confirm the connection.
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement. Early symptoms can include tremors, muscle stiffness, slowed movement, and balance problems, and they often worsen gradually over time.
The study does not prove that traffic noise directly causes Parkinson’s disease. Instead, it identifies an association between prolonged noise exposure and increased risk. Researchers say additional studies are needed to better understand why chronic noise may influence brain health.
While more evidence is needed, experts suggest that reducing long-term exposure to excessive traffic noise whenever possible may be one small step toward supporting overall health. Simple measures such as improving sound insulation, using quieter rooms for sleeping, or creating quieter living spaces may help reduce daily noise exposure.
