Noise pollution and attention control among elementary school children in Ibadan, South-west Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Noise pollution is a public health concern. It affects the cognitive and academic performance of school-aged  children. Sounds over 85 dB can harm children's health. Daily exposure for more than six hours can hurt their cognition,  attention, and memory. This study assessed noise pollution and its effects on elementary school children. It looked at their  attention, attention control, and academic performance. 

Methods: We utilized a cross-sectional study design. Four elementary schools were selected based on the environmental  conditions of their locations. Study instruments were interviewer administered questionnaire and an observational check list. The questionnaire included a children's attention control scale and two tests: Trail Making and Figure Cancellation Task. We  conducted descriptive and inferential analysis of the results.  

Results: The mean age of the participants was 11 years, while male to female ratio was 1:1.1. Classroom activities were the  most common source of noise in all the schools. Market activities, road traffic, and roadside disc jockeys were the most  common external noise sources. Noise level in the schools exceeded the recommended limit for learning environment. The  high-noise group's noise level was higher than the low-noise groups in all tested parameters. There was negative significant  association between noise pollution and attention control, attention shifting and academic performance. Noise also affected  the errors on Trail Making Test B.  

Conclusion: The effect of noise pollution is seen in its impact on attention control and academic performance. Reducing  noise pollution can improve elementary school children's focus and academic grades.