Traffic noise, green areas, and children’s health in Stockholm County – A cross-sectional study

Abstract Background Children are especially vulnerable to environmental exposures yet data examining the impact of traffic noise and access to green space on their health and well-being is scarce. In this study, we assess associations between traffic noise and children's health and well-being and the potential buffering effects of greenness. Methods This cross-sectional study combined modeled traffic noise exposure data (road, rail, air) for all children, 0-19 years, in Stockholm County (571 000) and environmental health survey data from 5,533 12 year olds. Health outcomes included general health, noise annoyance, sleep disturbances, difficulties doing homework (concentration), and symptoms of stress (headache and tiredness). Access to green and quiet areas, defined as having less than 300 m to a green area with noise levels <50 dB daytime, was assessed geospatially. Logistic regression models adjusted for socio-demographics were used to evaluate associations. Results In total, 41% of the children in Stockholm County were exposed to traffic noise above 55 dB in daily average. Road traffic was the dominating source. Almost all (98%) had access to green areas, but only 50% had access to quiet, green areas. Based on the survey data, noise exposure was associated with a higher risk of sleep disturbance (+9% per 1 dB for road traffic), annoyance (+17%), difficulties concentrating (+6%) and symptoms of stress (+50% in areas of aircraft noise exposure >50 dB). Use of green spaces was consistently linked to fewer reported health problems (e.g. -19% for annoyance). No association was found between noise exposure and general health, but frequent use of green space correlated with better general health ratings. Conclusions Traffic noise was in this study associated with several negative health outcomes, such as sleep disturbance and concentrating difficulties. Children who often visited green areas reported less health problems. Key messages • Traffic noise adversely affects children’s well-being and health, but green areas appear to buffer these effects. • Urban planning should reduce noise exposure and ensure access to quiet green spaces.