Is exposure to traffic-noise associated with the development of gestational diabetes mellitus?

Objective
Exposure to environmental traffic noise has been associated with adverse health effects. This prospective study was aimed to evaluate whether an association exists between exposure to traffic noise and the risk for the development of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).
Study Design
In this prospective study, pregnant women who were enrolled to Maternal and Child Health Clinics between the years 2013-2016 were interviewed. The questionnaire included personal and health information and a self-assessment questionnaire regarding exposure to home traffic noise (on a scale of 0-10) and stress. Environmental noise was also measured using a portable dosimeter. Follow-up was performed until delivery. Data on GDM as well as other pregnancy outcomes were recorded from the hospital files. A multiple logistic regression model was constructed to control for confounders.
Results
During the study period, 285 pregnant women were enrolled. A significant correlation was noted between measured and self-reported noise (R=0.215; P=0.001). Traffic noise (reported on a scale of 0-10) was significantly higher in patients who subsequently develop GDM (7.1+/- 2.2 vs. 4.8+/- 2.9; P=0.002), and a level of 6 and above was noted as a risk factor for the development of GDM (OR=1.12; 95% CI 1.1-1.2; P=0.003). Using a multiple logistic regression model, controlling for confounders such as BMI, maternal age, maternal chronic diseases, and maternal reported stress, traffic noise was noted as an independent risk factor for the development of GDM (OR=1.3, 95% CI 1.1-1.6; P=0.013).
Conclusion
Traffic-related noise is an independent risk factor for the development of gestational diabetes mellitus. Further studies are needed in order to strengthen these findings among pregnant women.