CANUE Expert Webinar – Noise Pollution and Health – October 27, 2022 | 12 p.m. – 1 p.m. (ET)

VIDEO AVAILABLE

 

Sound is a common feature of many cities. But unwanted, persistent and loud sound can become noise and affect our health. Exposure to noise pollution is associated with significant health hazards, including hearing loss, cardiovascular impacts such as heart disease and high blood pressure, metabolic disease, attention and memory loss, sleep disturbance, depression, and decreased quality of life. Those with a lower socioeconomic status are more likely to live in areas where they experience higher levels of noise pollution, putting them at greater risk of its health impacts. However, cities don’t have to be noisy. There are steps they can take to mitigate noise pollution and reduce its health burden.

This webinar will:

  • Discuss prevalence of noise pollution in Canada
  • Discuss how excessive noise affects health
  • Discuss how cities can address noise and mitigate its health effects

About the Speaker

Dr. Oiamo is an Associate Professor in the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies at Toronto Metropolitan University. His research in environmental health geography focuses on exposure assessment through the development of environmental models of noise and air quality, novel population exposure metrics, and simulation systems to assess health impacts of urban change. These efforts complement research activities that aim to further our understanding of environmental determinants of health as well as health and disease risks in vulnerable urban populations. Through collaboration with public and private sector partners, these research activities are applied and oriented towards environmental decision-making and policy. Dr. Oiamo also teaches on topics related to environmental decision-making, sustainable development, demography and environmental health.