Many people enjoy living in the heart of the city where they can be close to countless attractions, amenities and job opportunities. However, they often overlook the negative impact that living near busy streets can have on their health.

Introduction

A staggering 92% of the population across the globe are living in areas where air pollution levels are exceeding the limits recommended by WHO.

One of the main contributors to air pollution is road traffic, and therefore, living near busy streets comes with several health risks.

Air Pollution

Air pollution is one of the most significant health risks when living near busy streets.

Fumes from vehicles, factories and other sources can impact the air quality, raising concerns about respiratory health and increasing the risk of heart disease and lung cancer. Exposure to harmful particles in the air can affect people of all ages, but it’s particularly harmful to children, the elderly and people with pre-existing respiratory conditions.

Studies show that air pollution can affect our cognitive ability too, with negative impacts on our memory, language skills, and reasoning.

The tiny particles in the air can enter our bloodstream, damaging our organs and causing health problems like strokes, diabetes and dementia. Air pollution can also exacerbate asthma and cause allergies in both adults and children – with detrimental effects on our respiratory systems and quality of life.

Noise Pollution

Living near busy streets also means exposure to high levels of noise pollution. Research shows that exposure to prolonged noise pollution has been linked to tinnitus, high blood pressure and even heart disease.

The constant sound of honking horns, screeching tires and emergency sirens can lead to poor sleep quality, stress and anxiety, as well as having negative effects on child development, leading to poor academic performance and associated behavioral problems.

Effects on Mental Health

Noise pollution can also lead to mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety and stress.

A study conducted by the World Health Organization reported that the noise pollution stemming from traffic congestion can affect mood, behavior, learning ability and even hormonal balance. People living in areas near highways, airports and train tracks are often unable to enjoy their own outdoor spaces without being exposed to noise pollution from the neighbourhood.

Physical Health

Living near busy streets can also affect our physical health. When you live near a busy road, exercising, especially outdoors can become difficult due to air pollution and noise pollution.

Researchers have shown that those who live near major transport systems such as highways and airports, tend to experience an increase in cardiovascular disease and respiratory illness.

Tips to reduce the risks

If you live near busy streets, it’s important to take measures to reduce the risks to your health. Below are some tips to help you mitigate the ill-effects of living in high-traffic areas:.

Use an air purifier
Plant trees around your house to reduce air pollution
Exercise indoors or seek out parks in quieter areas
Invest in double-glazed windows and soundproofing measures for your home

While these measures may not eliminate the risks entirely, they can certainly help to significantly reduce the negative health impacts of living near busy streets.

Conclusion

Lately, there has been an increase in awareness regarding the health risks of living in urban areas.

Many environmentalists have been advocating for the use of public transportation to reduce the concentration of vehicles on the roads, and thus, create a healthier living environment for all.

While living in the heart of the city might be convenient, it’s important to weigh the health risks that come along with it. By taking small steps, we can mitigate the risks and lead a healthy life amid city chaos.