Noise Pollution Levels and Health Effects Among Residents Near Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos State

Airport-related noise pollution is increasingly recognized as a public health issue affecting residential communities in proximity to major airports. This study measured noise pollution levels and assessed reported health effects among residents of communities adjacent to the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos State, South West Nigeria. Sound level measurements were taken at thirty-two monitoring points across three communities at varying distances from the airport perimeter using a calibrated digital sound level meter. A cross-sectional survey was administered to 390 residents to document self-reported health outcomes including sleep disturbance, hypertension, hearing difficulties, and psychological stress. Results showed that daytime noise levels in communities within one kilometre of the flight path averaged 78 dB(A), exceeding the WHO guideline of 55 dB(A) for residential daytime noise. Nighttime measurements recorded peaks of 72 dB(A) during late flight operations, significantly surpassing the nocturnal guideline of 45 dB(A). Sleep disturbance was reported by sixty-seven percent of respondents, while thirty-nine percent reported clinically measured elevated blood pressure. A significant inverse relationship was found between distance from the airport and noise level intensity. The study recommends the implementation of noise insulation programs for affected residences, revision of flight curfew enforcement, and establishment of a community health monitoring program. Keywords: airport noise, noise pollution, health effects, Lagos, sleep disturbance.