Investigating Sleep Disturbance Due to Environmental Noise Pollution in Urban Bangladesh
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70818/jnmc.v02i02.017Keywords:
Sleep Disturbance, Environmental Noise, Noise Exposure, Urban Bangladesh, Public HealthAbstract
Background: Environmental noise pollution in urban Bangladesh has become a major public health concern, leading to sleep disturbances among urban populations. Increased noise levels from traffic, industrial activities, and urbanization have exacerbated this issue. Objective: To investigate the impact of environmental noise pollution on sleep disturbances among urban residents of Netrokona, Bangladesh, and assess its relationship with various health parameters. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2023 to June 2024 at the Department of Community Medicine, Netrokona Medical College. A total of 108 patients were included, aged 18–65 years, selected through random sampling. Participants were assessed using a structured questionnaire based on the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and environmental noise measurements using a calibrated sound level meter. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 25, with chi-square tests for categorical variables and independent t-tests for continuous variables. Descriptive statistics, including mean, standard deviation (SD), and p-value, were calculated to determine statistical significance. Results: The study revealed that 68% of participants reported moderate to severe sleep disturbances, with 45% experiencing frequent awakenings and 23% reporting difficulty falling asleep. Noise exposure levels ranged from 60 to 85 dB, with a mean of 73.4 dB (SD=5.6). The sleep disturbance index was significantly higher (p<0.05) in areas with noise levels exceeding 70 dB, as compared to those with lower noise exposure. A strong negative correlation (r=-0.72, p<0.01) was found between sleep quality and noise exposure. Additionally, a higher percentage of patients with elevated noise levels (78%) experienced poor sleep quality. Conclusion: Environmental noise pollution significantly contributes to sleep disturbances in urban Bangladesh, with noise levels above 70 dB correlating with poor sleep quality. Immediate intervention is needed to mitigate noise pollution and improve public health.
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