Parkinson's disease is a brain disorder that affects movement and balance.
Until now, research has mainly focused on risk factors such as air pollution, pesticides, and microplastics.
Now, a new study, published in JAMA Neurology and reported by The Guardian, suggests that traffic noise may also play a role.
The researchers followed 3.1 million Danes aged 40 and older over an 18-year period using nationwide health registers.
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The results should be interpreted with caution
The researchers accounted for air pollution but did not have information about the participants' lifestyles.
However, they believe this does not change the main findings because the association was consistent across different income and education levels, according to The Guardian.
Other researchers urge caution. They emphasize that the study shows an association but does not prove that traffic noise directly causes Parkinson's disease. They also point out that other factors may have influenced the results.
The risk increases slightly
The researchers believe that long-term noise exposure may affect the body through poor sleep and increased stress.
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They also suggest that having a home with a quieter side may reduce exposure to traffic noise.
For every 11.5-decibel increase at the noisiest side of a home, the risk of developing Parkinson's disease increased by 3 percent over the course of the study.
The researchers describe the increase as small but consistent and call for further research before traffic noise can be considered a confirmed risk factor.
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