The Impact of Noise Exposure on Psychophysiological Parameters in Students

Introduction. Currently, noise is regarded not only as a harmful occupational factor but also as a significant physical element of the living environment, constituting an integral part of human life. The aim of this study is to determine noise exposure levels in higher education institutions and assess its impact on the psychophysiological parameters of students. Materials and methods. The annual noise exposure was calculated using measurements obtained from the "Assistant" noise and vibration analyzer. To assess the impact of noise on the psychophysiological parameters of students, the Münsterberg method was employed, along with a stress-level monitoring system and pure-tone threshold audiometry, including investigations of air and bone conduction within the standard frequency range. This study does not require approval from a biomedical ethics committee. Results. It was established that during daytime hours, noise levels across the campus of National Research Mordovia State University and building interiors (hallways, restrooms, and cloakrooms) remind with permissible limits. However, elevated noise levels were recorded in lecture halls. Based on the obtained measurements and questionnaire results, a risk group was identified, showing a statistically significant reduction in selective attention at a noise level of 65.5 dBA. The study is limited to examining the subjective parameters of noise impact on students at the Medical Institute. An evaluation of 97 questionnaires from 1st to 6th-year students was conducted, representing a sufficiently representative sample. According to the obtained annual noise exposure data, two groups were formed: Group I (n = 10) – individuals with minimal noise exposure (annual noise exposure ranging from 62.5 to 68.2 dBA), and Group II (n = 10) – the risk group (annual noise exposure ranging from 80.1 to 85.6 dBA). A comparative assessment of cognitive functions was performed in the risk group using the Münsterberg method, along with an evaluation of psychophysiological parameters using a stress-level control system. Discussion and conclusion. The evaluation of certain cognitive indicators confirms the nonspecific effect of noise on students, manifesting as reduced selectivity and concentration of attention, as well as a decline in all parameters of the nervous system's functional capabilities, which has been identified among at-risk students.