Efeitos do ruído aeroportuário na qualidade de vida dos moradores nos arredores do Aeroporto Santa Genoveva

Abstract

Airport noise has become a major problem for populations living near airports, especially due to constant exposure to high sound levels, which directly interfere with individual well-being. Headaches, insomnia, and irritability recurrently affect residents living close to these complexes. Within this context, the following question arises: is it possible that noise from Santa Genoveva Airport, in Goiânia, affects the quality of life of nearby residents, considering impacts related to sleep, stress levels, and other symptoms? To answer this question, a mixed-methods study was conducted, combining qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Questionnaires were applied to 68 residents of Jardim Guanabara, Jaó, and Santa Genoveva neighborhoods, located in areas covered by the Specific Noise Zoning Plan. The results indicated that 67.6% of respondents reported symptoms associated with noise, such as headaches, sleep disorders, and stress. Additionally, 57.4% reported sleep difficulties, and 42.6% stated that noise interferes with their daily activities. To minimize these effects, some alternatives can be adopted, such as the use of headphones, acoustic insulation, and reinforcement of windows and walls. It is concluded that continuous exposure to airport operation noise reduces the quality of life of nearby residents. It is recommended that future research analyze the effectiveness of mitigation measures and the medical underreporting of non-auditory effects of noise, in order to support public policies that reconcile aviation development with the health of the local population.