Inserm study links early childhood road noise to emotional difficulties

A study conducted by Inserm and Sorbonne University suggests that persistent exposure to road noise during early childhood may be linked to increased emotional and relational difficulties later in life. Published in ‘The Lancet Public Health’, the research utilized data from nearly 8,000 children in the ELFE cohort, who were followed from birth.

Researchers assessed exposure to road, air, and rail noise at ages 2 months, 3.5 years, and 5.5 years. By age 10.5, parents reported on their children's emotional and behavioral symptoms. The findings indicate that children consistently exposed to road noise levels of at least 60 dB(A) from birth to age 5.5 showed higher rates of ‘internalized’ symptoms, such as emotional difficulties and social withdrawal.

Specific timing also appeared significant. High exposure at 2 months and 5.5 years was associated with difficulties in peer relationships. Furthermore, exposure at age 5.5 was linked to ‘externalized’ symptoms, including hyperactivity and inattention. The study highlights that children may be particularly vulnerable to environmental noise due to their ongoing physical, cognitive, and social development.