Living near major roadways can present a variety of health risks. The exposure to air pollution, noise pollution, and psychological stressors can lead to numerous health issues, many of which have been studied extensively.

Below, we explore some of the most common illnesses that affect those who reside near major roadways.

Asthma

Asthma is a chronic respiratory illness that can be triggered by poor air quality, specifically the inhalation of fine particulate matter found in traffic exhaust. This particulate matter can cause inflammation in the airways and restrict breathing.

In fact, studies have shown that those who live within 500 meters of a major roadway have a higher likelihood of developing asthma and other respiratory problems than those who live farther away.

Lung cancer

Lung cancer is another illness that can be linked to exposure to traffic pollution. This is because the exhaust fumes from vehicles emit carcinogens, such as benzene, that can increase the risk of developing lung cancer.

Those who live near major roadways for extended periods of time are particularly at risk, as the exposure to these harmful chemicals is prolonged.

Cardiovascular disease

Studies have shown that long-term exposure to traffic pollution increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.

The air pollution caused by traffic can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries, increasing the likelihood of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions.

Stroke

People who live within 50 meters of a major roadway have been found to have an increased risk of stroke.

This is due to the exposure to particulate matter and nitrogen oxide found in traffic pollution, which can cause inflammation and damage to blood vessels, leading to an increased risk of stroke.

Childhood development

Studies have found a link between living near major roadways and childhood development issues, such as autism and ADHD.

The exposure to noise pollution and traffic-related pollution during pregnancy and early childhood can lead to developmental delays and cognitive impairments.

Dementia

Exposure to air pollution has also been linked to an increased risk of dementia. The particulate matter from traffic pollution can enter the brain and cause inflammation, leading to cognitive decline and memory problems.

Depression and anxiety

Living near major roadways can also lead to psychological stressors, such as noise pollution and traffic congestion, which can increase the risk of developing depression and anxiety.

This is because the constant exposure to these stressors can disrupt sleep patterns and lead to feelings of frustration and helplessness.

Obesity

Research has shown that living near major roadways can increase the risk of obesity, as the exposure to air pollution can affect the body’s metabolism and lead to weight gain.

The lack of physical activity due to the noise and congestion of major roadways can also contribute to an unhealthy lifestyle.

Premature birth

Living near major roadways has also been linked to an increased risk of premature birth. This is because the exposure to traffic-related pollution can lead to inflammation in the mother’s body and affect the proper development of the fetus.

Respiratory infections

Exposure to traffic-related pollution can also increase the risk of respiratory infections, such as pneumonia and bronchitis. This is because the pollution can weaken the lungs and make them more susceptible to infection.

Conclusion

Living near major roadways exposes individuals to a wide range of health risks, from respiratory illnesses to psychological stressors to developmental delays.

It is crucial that cities take action to mitigate these risks, such as improving public transportation and promoting cleaner energy alternatives. By doing so, we can create healthier communities for everyone.