Investigating the Role of Individual Sensitivity in the Effects of Low-Frequency Noise(LFN) on Physiological Parameters of the Students of Hamedan University of Medical Sciences

Abstract

Introduction: Low-frequency noise, even at low levels, is annoying and affects the physiological function of individuals. Some individual differences, such as sensitivity to noise, can reduce or increase the effect of noise on physiological parameters. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of individual sensitivity on physiological parameters in the presence of low-frequency noise. Materials & Methods: This is an interventional study. 120 subjects were selected through targeted sampling (60 high sensitivity and 60 low sensitivity). By simulating the real environment of each person, they were exposed to 50, 60, and 70 dB of noise. Before and after exposure, the mean body temperature, skin temperature, heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen content was measured and recorded. Data were analyzed using the SPSS20 software package, independent t-test, and paired T-test. Code of ethics: IR.umsha.REC.1395.457 Findings: The results showed that low-frequency noise negatively affects physiological parameters and increases physiological parameters by increasing the noise level from 50 to 70 dB (P<0.05). Investigating the combined effect of individual sensitivity to noise and gender showed that physiological parameters are more affected in women and people with high sensitivity (P<0.05). Discussion & Conclusions: Considering that high blood pressure is closely related to cardiovascular disease, the use of people who are more tolerant to noise (low sensitivity) in areas where exposure to noise is higher than the safe limit can prevent cardiac complications.

Keywords

• Low-frequency noise (LFN)
• Individual sensitivity noise
• Physiological parameter