Jessica Edstorp

Research problem and specific questionsEpidemiological evidence shows that long-term exposure to traffic noise increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, and recent findings point to an association also with overweight/obesity and type 2 diabetes. No study has assessed mediation by sleep disturbances of the association between traffic noise and cardiovascular diseases, although this may have great relevance for preventive measures. This also holds true for other potential mediators, and there is little evidence on vulnerable groups. This project will assess mediation by sleep disturbance, overweight/obesity, type 2 diabetes and lifestyle factors on risks for atrial fibrillation, ischemic heart disease and stroke related to road traffic, railway and aircraft noise. It will also elucidate susceptible groups in the population for transportation noise associated cardiovascular diseases. Data and methodThe project is based on pooled analyses of twelve cohorts from Sweden and Denmark, totally including more than 420 000 individuals, using state-of-the art exposure assessment, information on lifestyle and socioeconomic variables, and data from anthropometry, clinical tests and biomarkers as well as follow-up of disease incidence in high-quality registers. Population attributable risks will be estimated for different transportation noise sources and cardiovascular outcomes, considering mediation and susceptible groups, to guide prioritization of preventive action.Societal relevance and utilizationPlanning authorities in urban areas experience challenges related to environment and health, including conflicts in development of infrastructure because of noise from traffic. Swedish authorities have relaxed noise guidelines to facilitate construction of residential buildings in noisy areas, despite the growing evidence on serious adverse health effects from transportation noise exposure. The results of the project will be fed into planning processes to facilitate a health sustainable urban development. Plan for project realizationThe project is coordinated by leading environmental epidemiologists from Sweden and Denmark, with profound experience of collaborating with national authorities and international organizations in disseminating research findings to influence community planning. A high cost-efficiency is achieved since most data in the project have already been collected.