What is the primary effect of chronic exposure to noise pollution?

Chronic exposure to noise pollution significantly impacts mental and physical health, with stress and anxiety being among the most common effects. Continuous noise can lead to elevated stress hormone levels, disrupting normal physiological functions, including sleep patterns, heart rate, and blood pressure. This stress response often manifests as anxiety, affecting concentration, mood, and overall well-being.

In environments with persistent noise, individuals may also experience reduced productivity and impaired social interactions due to heightened irritability or discomfort. Thus, recognizing noise pollution as a significant environmental stressor highlights the importance of effective sound management strategies in urban planning and public health initiatives to mitigate these adverse effects.