Proliferation of noise pollution: Implication on health and community perception in coastal slums

Noise pollution's impact on human health and community perceptions is explored in this study. This study employed a mixed method approach, including survey, documentary, in-depth interviews, and noise meter measurements. Noise readings were measured at 15-minute intervals for each site using a precision-grade sound level meter. Descriptive and inferential statistics (SPSS version 20.0) and a geospatial information system-based Kriging technique (ArcGIS) were used for data analysis. The average mean value of noise levels (67.5 +/- 3.0, 67.2 +/- 2.2 75.0 +/- 4.3, 66.7 +/- 0.0 and 66.2 +/- 2.2 dBA) from five locations exceeded WHO and NESREA standards of 65 and 55 during the day permissible limits in wet season; while during dry season (67.2 +/- 5.8, 71.6 +/- 0.7, 70.6 +/- 0.0, 71.9 +/- 0.0, 68.8 +/- 0.0, 75.1 +/- 0.0, 74.2 +/- 0.2 and 79.4 +/- 0.0 dBA) from eight locations surpass the recommended limits. Socio-demographic profiles showed that females were more impacted by noise pollution than males, and people between the age group of 40-59 years also expressed concern about noise pollution's impact. Additionally, 52.5, 42.5, and 40 % of the married respondents across the study area revealed high levels of proneness to noise pollution. Primary and secondary educational levels, as well as employment status (civil servant or unemployed), were identified as good predictors of noise-related health problems. Sources of noise pollution, as reported by the slum dwellers, include generator sets (37.5 %), religious worship centers (42.5 %), grinding machines and public address systems (60 %), moving vehicles (62.5 %), marketplaces (67.5 %), and motor parks (75 %).Contributory factors attributed to reported noise pollution levels are an increase in com-munity population, duration of stay, and periods of extreme noise pollution. Perceived auditory and non-auditory health effects of noise exposure include hearing loss, hypertension, poor sleep quality, disturbances in mental health, nervousness, and myocardial infarction.Correlations were found between the reporting of noise impact and factors relating to the quality of life. Hence, 65% of those seeking better job opportunities and 75% of those seeking more affordable and cheaper living costs reported noise impact. Noise pollution performance measures, as reported, had connections between the respondents' attitude and knowledge. However, 67.5% indicated negative effects of noise pollution, 70% indicated reduction through creating awareness, and 72.5% reported reduction through government intervention. Therefore, this study emphasizes the importance of aggressive public education regarding the dangers of noise pollution to human health, as well as the strict implementation and enforcement of noise pollution laws.