Thursday, September 22, 2011

Sleep disturbances from noisy wind turbines found in 2 of 3 studies

Infrasound and low frequency noise from wind turbines: exposure and health effects

FOCUS ON THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF WIND ENERGY
Karl Bolin1, Gösta Bluhm2, Gabriella Eriksson3 and Mats E Nilsson2,4
Wind turbines emit low frequency noise (LFN) and large turbines generally generate more LFN than small turbines. The dominant source of LFN is the interaction between incoming turbulence and the blades. Measurements suggest that indoor levels of LFN in dwellings typically are within recommended guideline values, provided that the outdoor level does not exceed corresponding guidelines for facade exposure. Three cross-sectional questionnaire studies show that annoyance from wind turbine noise is related to the immission level, but several explanations other than low frequency noise are probable. A statistically significant association between noise levels and self-reported sleep disturbance was found in two of the three studies. It has been suggested that LFN from wind turbines causes other, and more serious, health problems, but empirical support for these claims is lacking.
    Chronic Sleep Deprivation May Harm Health | WebMD

    In the long term, the clinical consequences of untreated sleep disorders are large indeed. They are associated with numerous, serious medical illnesses, including:

    High blood pressure
    Heart attack
    Heart failure
    Stroke
    Obesity
    Psychiatric problems, including depression and other mood disorders
    Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)
    Mental impairment
    Fetal and childhood growth retardation
    Injury from accidents
    Disruption of bed partner's sleep quality
    Poor quality of life

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