What is one potential cardiovascular effect of noise pollution?

Noise pollution is recognized as a significant environmental stressor that can adversely affect cardiovascular health. One of the primary mechanisms by which noise impacts the cardiovascular system is through the induction of stress responses. When individuals are exposed to high levels of noise, it can trigger a release of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline.

These hormones lead to increased heart rate and blood pressure, contributing to the overall cardiovascular strain. Over time, chronic exposure to noise pollution can elevate the risk of developing hypertension, heart disease, and other related conditions due to the persistent state of stress it imposes on the body. Thus, increased stress stands out as the correct answer and reflects the well-documented relationship between chronic noise exposure and cardiovascular risks.