Statistical Analysis of Noise Pollution Awareness and its Effects on Health in Oja-Oba Market, Ado Ekiti

Noise pollution, a significant environmental challenge in urban areas worldwide, arises from human-generated outdoor sounds. This study investigates the impact of noise pollution on the urban market of Oja-Oba in Ado Ekiti, Nigeria, through the lens of a healthy city concept. Using a Cross-sectional survey design that utilizes a quantitative approach through the administration of structured questionnaires we examined residents’ understanding and experiences of noise pollution in this bustling market area and insights were obtained from in-depth interviews with residents and traders. A sample of 200 households was randomly selected using simple random sampling (SRS) to provide insights into demographic variables and perceptions of noise pollution. The study reveals a paradox: although 89% of residents know the harmful effects of noise pollution (including its role in causing tinnitus), 59% still report experiencing tinnitus. Interestingly, Chi-square analysis shows no significant link between understanding noise pollution and experiencing its effects (p=0.820 > 0.05), indicating that knowledge alone may not reduce the impact. Traffic was identified as a significant noise source by 51% of respondents, highlighting the complex relationship between urban development, commerce, and environmental health in Nigeria’s rapidly growing cities. The findings reveal a community struggling with urban noise, where awareness and experience of noise pollution exist in a delicate balance. The study recommends targeted noise reduction strategies and educational campaigns to bridge knowledge and action gaps. It emphasizes the connection between urban soundscapes and community well-being, providing valuable insights for environmental health research. This sets the stage for future studies on sustainable acoustic management and policy development in similar urban settings across Nigeria and beyond.