Investigation of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of People in Kermanshah, Iran, toward the Effects of Traffic Noise Pollution on Human Health

Background Aims of the Study: One of the most important harmful factors in big cities is noise, and traffic is regarded as the most important source of noise pollution. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the level of knowledge, attitude, and practice of people in Kermanshah, Iran, regarding the potential effects of noise pollution on their health. Materials and Methods: A researcher-made questionnaire was used to collect data from 340 respondents residing in 34 identified stations in the city that were considered urban areas. The questionnaire sought information about knowledge, attitude, and practice level of people in Kermanshah, Iran, regarding the effects of traffic noise pollution on human health in spring 2017. Results: According to the results, 3.57% of the participants believed that mass media notification could be effective in controlling noise pollution (relatively high and positive); however, only 3.27% of the respondents utilized sound control methods (poor level of performance). Furthermore, 5.21% of the cases highlighted the effectiveness of the first floor of the buildings as a noise reduction factor for other blocks in a building complex (low level of awareness). Conclusion: Citizens in Kermanshah, Iran, obtained a low level of awareness and performance about the effects of noise pollution; however, they had a much higher and better attitude toward this issue. Accordingly, educational programs should be implemented to increase their levels of awareness and performance.