Health Impact Assessment of Aircraft Noise Exposure : A case study of Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi International Airports - การประเมินผลกระทบต่อสุขภาพจากการสัมผัสเสียงเครื่องบิน : กรณีศึกษาสนามบินนานาชาติดอนเมืองและสุวรรณภูมิ

Abstract

              Environmental exposure to aircraft noise has been shown to adversely affect health. However, there has been no epidemiological study to demonstrate such detrimental health effects in Thailand. This study was conducted from September 2006 to March 2008, at the time of Donmueang (DM) International Airport closure and the opening of Suvarnabhumi (SVB) International Airport. Noise exposure of residents living in the vicinity of both airports, was measured assessed quality of life and general health problems among adults aged 25-60 and memory tests among fourth grade primary school children was conducted. Noise measurements revealed that adult and children populations were exposed to noise at the 24-hour averaged level (Leq,24hr) of 52.8-75.3 dB(A) and 53-63 dB(A) respectively. Prior to the opening of SVB airport, DM residents significantly rated quality of life lower than those living around SVB airport. However, after the opening of the airport, SVB residents significantly had decreased quality of life compared to DM residents. Assessed by Thai version GHQ-28 questionnaire at one-year follow-up, 38.83 per cent of the SVB group was classified as being abnormal. Moreover, compared to DM group, the recent noise exposure group (SVB) had adjusted odds ratio of 3.95 (95%CI 2.14, 7.29) to develop abnormal GHQ. Lastly, compared among the DM group, the SVB group and the non-exposed group, the SVB students significantly showed lowest mean difference of long-term memory scores. In conclusion, both DM and SVB residents were exposed to aircraft noise at a level which could adversely affect health. These findings prompt measures to prevent potential health effects.

Key words: aircraft noise exposure, assessment, health effect