Low-Frequency Noise: Experiences from a Low-Frequency Noise Perceiving Population

Abstract

Although low-frequency noise (LFN) is associated with various complaints, there is still much unknown about this phenomenon. This research aims to provide an extensive description of (1) LFN perceptions, (2) LFN-related complaints, and (3) the characteristics of LFN complainants. In an explorative observational cross-sectional survey study, a sample of Dutch adults reporting to experience LFN (n = 190) and a group not experiencing LFN (n = 371) completed a comprehensive questionnaire. Descriptions of LFN perceptions varied individually and were dependent on different circumstances, although some common patterns were observed. Complaints were wide-ranging and individual, with a reported high impact on daily living. Common complaints included sleeping difficulties, fatigue, or annoyance. Societal consequences were described regarding housing, work, and relationships. Attempts to stop or escape the perception were manifold but often unsuccessful. The LFN sample differed regarding sex, education level, and age from the Dutch adult population, indicating more frequent inability to work, less full-time work, and less time spent in their homes. No further differences in occupational or marital status or living circumstances were found. Although this research supports some previous findings and identifies common patterns, it also highlights the individual nature of LFN-related experiences and the heterogeneity of this group. It is advised to pay attention to the complaints of affected individuals, to inform concerned authorities, and to conduct more systematic and multidisciplinary research using standardized and validated measuring instruments.

Subjective Complaints and Coping Strategies of Individuals with Reported Low-Frequency Noise Perceptions

“…However, the second highest reported cognitive difficulties were memory problems, which have not been commonly included in previous research or regarded as a frequent complaint [21]. In a previous publication based on the larger LFN research project that this current study is part of, only 2.6% of the participants in an overlapping sample to the LFN1 group indicated memory complaints when answering an open question about experienced psychological problems [62]. Thus, the results of this research indicate that, when measured with standardized instruments, subjective memory difficulties are more common in individuals with reported daily LFN perceptions than formerly assumed, and more attention should be paid to this complaint in the future.…”

“…Only these self-report questionnaires are de-scribed here. Results of other parts of the research project are published in Erdélyi et al [62]. Questionnaires were chosen if they were proven to be clinically sensitive at detecting complaints and if they were psychometrically studied and validated.…”

“…The sex, age, educational level, and marital status of the LFN1 and all comparison groups, as well as the frequency of complaints and extent of hindrances, are depicted in Table 1. Further information about occupational status, living situation, and experienced LFN perceptions can be found in Erdélyi et al [62]. 1.6 ± 0.9 (0-4) 1.7 ± 0.9 (0-4) A comparison group was recruited through "PanelInzicht", a Dutch online research panel gathering research participants from the general public for financial compensation.…”

“…In conclusion, the effect of the observed demographic differences between the groups was assumed to be negligible. Further, the main reason for recruiting similar comparison groups was that LFN complainants in various survey studies [5,6,8] and in our LFN1 group present with older, more female, and more highly educated individuals compared to the general population (i.e., Dutch adult population presenting with an average of 50 years, 51% females, 24% low, 30% middle, and 28% high educated individuals; see [62]). Thus, our comparison group still clearly differs from the demographic characteristics of the general population and resembles the LFN1 group.…”

A Systematic Review of Fireworks Noise and Its Exceedance of WHO Outdoor Limits: Global Trends and Implications

“…The sound pressure level is measured using a sound level meter with "A" weighting, which approximates noise perception in the human ear; the unit of measurement is the decibel (dB) [19,20]. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a desirable upper noise limit of 55 dBA for outdoor environments to avoid harm to the human ear [21,22].…”