The Indian Medical Association (IMA) organised a mega walkathon to spread awareness about noise pollution from Patiala House Court to IMA headquarters.

A large number of doctors, lawyers and judges participated in the walkathon.

Speaking about the harmful effects of noise pollution, IMA said that air pollution is not only harmful to health, but it is also a silent killer. Due to rapid urbanisation, noise pollution is becoming a killer disease.

Speaking to Drug Today Medical Times, Dr Sharad Kumar Agarwal, National President of IMA, said that the increase in vehicles and extensive use of mobile phones is triggering impaired mental health and hearing losses in children and adults as well.

Dr Agarwal further said that noise pollution adversely affects the lives of millions of people. Studies have shown that there are direct links between noise and health.

“Excessive noise in the environment can lead to serious health problems in human beings such as anxiety, irritation, hypertension, lack of sleep or insomnia, lack of memory, stress, and even nervous breakdown. It may cause temporary or permanent hearing loss in humans as well as animals,” Dr Agarwal explained.

He emphasised that noise pollution, which refers to excessive or disruptive noise, can have detrimental effects on the health and well-being of individuals living in urban areas.

Cities like Delhi expose people to higher levels of noise pollution due to sources like traffic, construction activities, industries, and social events.

The IMA said that prolonged exposure to loud noise can lead to hearing impairment or even permanent sensorineural hearing loss as it damages the delicate structures of the inner ear.

 Noise pollution disrupts sleep patterns, causing difficulties in falling asleep, frequent awakenings, and overall poor sleep quality. This can result in daytime fatigue and reduced productivity.

Continuous exposure to noise triggers the body's stress response, leading to chronic stress and anxiety. These factors can increase the risk of mental health issues such as depression and mood disorders.

Long-term exposure to high levels of noise pollution is associated with cardiovascular problems like hypertension (high blood pressure), increased heart rate, and elevated stress hormone levels.

Noise pollution impairs cognitive functions, including concentration, memory, and problem-solving abilities. Children may experience difficulties in learning and academic performance due to noise exposure.