Noise Exposure Levels and Health Impact in Ikorodu, Lagos State, Nigeria

Background: Noise pollution poses a significant threat to urban health in Nigeria, yet the issue remains unaddressed. This study assessed noise exposure levels and their health impact among residents of Ikorodu, Lagos State. Methods: A cross-sectional design was used to collect data from ۵۰۰ respondents across residential, commercial, and industrial areas. Noise levels were measured using calibrated sound level meters during morning, afternoon, and evening periods. Questionnaires were used to collect socio-demographic information and perceived health effects. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and Pearson and Spearman correlation tests at a ۵% significance level. Results: Demographic analysis showed that the majority of participants were aged ۳۰–۳۹ years (۵۷.۴%) and male (۵۴.۵%). Mean noise levels ranged from ۶۵.۵ dB in residential areas to ۸۱.۶ dB in commercial areas, exceeding WHO (۵۵–۷۰ dB) and LASEPA limits. The mean healthimpact score was ۳.۵۲, reflecting a high level of perceived annoyance and discomfort. One-way ANOVA indicated significant differences in mean noise levels across areas (P < ۰.۰۰۱). Both Pearson and Spearman rank correlation analyses showed a strong positive correlation (P < ۰.۰۱) between noise level and health impact, indicating that as noise exposure increases, perceived health effects, including stress, headache, fatigue, and sleep disturbance, rise. Conclusion: The study concludes that noise pollution in Ikorodu exceeds safe limits and significantly affects residents’ well-being. Strengthened noise-control regulations, periodic monitoring, and urban planning interventions are recommended.

کلیدواژه ها:

Decibels (dB) ، Nigeria ، Noise pollution ، Sound meter ، Urban health