NOISE POLLUTION

This study, titled “Knowledge and Awareness of Noise Pollution and Its Associated Health Impacts among Residents of Ugbowo Community, Benin City,” aimed to assess the level of knowledge and awareness of noise pollution and its related health effects among residents of Ugbowo Community. The study objectivized that residents in the community possess varying levels of knowledge and awareness about noise pollution, its sources, and associated health risks, influenced by factors such as education, occupation, and exposure to public awareness campaigns. A descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study, targeting a population of 552,005 residents of Ugbowo Community, projected from the 2006 national census. Using Taro Yamane’s formula, a sample size of 400 respondents was determined and selected through a multi-stage sampling technique to ensure fair representation across different sections of the community. The data was collected using a structured questionnaire titled “Knowledge and Awareness of Noise Pollution and Its Associated Health Impacts Questionnaire (KANPHAIQ),” which consisted of 30 items divided into sections on demographic data, sources of noise pollution, health effects, awareness of regulations, and existing noise reduction measures. The validity of the instrument was established by experts in the Department of Health, Safety, and Environmental Education, and its reliability was confirmed using the test–retest method, yielding a Cronbach’s Alpha value of 0.82. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequency counts, percentages, means, and standard deviations. The findings revealed that traffic noise, loud music or events, and noise from neighborhood activities such as generators were the major sources of noise pollution in Ugbowo Community. Residents demonstrated a relatively high level of knowledge about the health effects of noise pollution, including hearing loss, sleep disturbance, and stress- related conditions, while awareness of existing regulations and reporting procedures was also notable. However, the study identified a lack of effective noise reduction measures and weak enforcement of noise control policies in the community. The study recommended strengthening public sensitization programs, improving policy enforcement, and establishing community-based initiatives to promote effective noise management and health protection among residents.