scholarly journals Sex differences in noise-induced hearing loss: a cross-sectional study in China

2021 ◽  
Vol 12 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Qixuan Wang ◽  
Xueling Wang ◽  
Lu Yang ◽  
Kun Han ◽  
Zhiwu Huang ◽  
...  

Abstract Background Significant sex differences exist in hearing physiology, while few human studies have investigated sex differences in noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), and the sex bias in previous studies resulted in inadequate female data. The study aims to investigate sex differences in the characteristics of NIHL to provide insight into sex-specific risk factors, prevention strategies and treatment for NIHL. Methods This cross-sectional study included 2280 industrial noise-exposed shipyard workers (1140 males and 1140 females matched for age, job and employment length) in China. Individual noise exposure levels were measured to calculate the cumulative noise exposure (CNE), and an audiometric test was performed by an experienced technician in a soundproof booth. Sex differences in and influencing factors of low-frequency (LFHL) and high-frequency hearing loss (HFHL) were analyzed using logistic regression models stratified by age and CNE. Results At comparable noise exposure levels and ages, the prevalence of HFHL was significantly higher in males (34.4%) than in females (13.8%), and males had a higher prevalence of HFHL (OR = 4.19, 95% CI 3.18 to 5.52) after adjusting for age, CNE, and other covariates. Sex differences were constant and highly remarkable among subjects aged 30 to 40 years and those with a CNE of 80 to 95 dB(A). Alcohol consumption might be a risk factor for HFHL in females (OR = 3.12, 95% CI 1.10 to 8.89). Conclusions This study indicates significant sex differences in NIHL. Males are at higher risk of HFHL than females despite equivalent noise exposure and age. The risk factors for NIHL might be different in males and females.

2014 ◽  
Vol 9 (1) ◽  
pp. 19-24
Author(s):  
MR Alam ◽  
MA Wahab ◽  
MM Rahman ◽  
AKM Asaduzzaman ◽  
MAS Al-Azad ◽  
...  

Introduction: Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) is an occupational health hazard linked with noise exposure of more than 85 dB. Aircraft noise and other occupational noise exposure cause military aviators more susceptible to NIHL than commercial jet pilots. Aim: To find out the prevalence of noise induced hearing loss among different military aircrew population with special emphasis on identifying the associated risk factors. Materials and Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted on Kuwait Air force pilots those who came for annual medical checkup from July 2010 to July 2012. Audiometry of all subjects was done by ENT specialist and necessary data were collected by structured questionnaires. All data were analyzed by SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) version 17.0 Results: Out of 221 aircrew 32 (14.48%) developed NIHL. Hearing loss was mild to moderate and predominately at high frequencies. Most affected group was helicopter pilots. Pilots of more than 40 years of age and those who had more than 1000 flying hours had mean hearing threshold more than other groups. The right ear was affected in majority of cases than left ear. Conclusion: Noise exposure to aircrew is inevitable so hearing loss prevention strategies might play a pivotal role to save aircrew hearing. Active surveillance of hearing protection practices might have beneficiary effect. Steps can be taken for early detection of NIHL and hearing conservation program. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jafmc.v9i1.18721 Journal of Armed Forces Medical College Bangladesh Vol.9(1) 2013: 19-24


2021 ◽  
Vol 71 (Suppl-3) ◽  
pp. S607-11
Author(s):  
Muhammad Javid Iqbal Pattafi ◽  
Nazia Mumtaz ◽  
Ghulam Saqulain

Objective: To determine the frequency and risk factors of occupational noise induced hearing loss. Study Design: Cross sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Dispensary Unit of Jaith Bhuta Sugar Mill near Rahim Yar Khan, Southern Punjab.from Aug 2017 to Jan 2018. Methodology: This study was conducted using nonprobability consecutive sampling. n=300 workers of bothgenders aged 18-40 years were assessed. Basic demographic parameters, otoscopic examination and Pure Tone Audiometry were used for data collection. The Data was analyzed by using SPSS version 21. Results: Study included 215 (71.7%) males and 85 (28.3%) females with male to female ratio of 2.53: 1 and meanage of 28.34 ± 4.61 years. The frequency rate of hearing impairment (HI) was 90 (30%) out of 300 respondents inthis study. Out of 70 (100%) of respondents were affected with duration of job of 6-10 years. There was significant association between gender, age, education, duration of noise exposure with occupational noise induced hearing loss with p-value <0.001. Conclusion: There was high frequency of occupational noise induced hearing loss (ONIHL) with significantrisk factors being level and duration of exposure to noise (ETN), age, gender, education and hearing protectivedevices (HPD)’s.


2020 ◽  
Vol 11 (2) ◽  
pp. 199-206
Author(s):  
Aung K. Zaw ◽  
Aung M. Myat ◽  
Mya Thandar ◽  
Ye M. Htun ◽  
Than H. Aung ◽  
...  

2016 ◽  
Vol 2016 ◽  
pp. 1-7 ◽  
Author(s):  
Charles Kwame R. Gyamfi ◽  
Isaac Amankwaa ◽  
Frank Owusu Sekyere ◽  
Daniel Boateng

Introduction.Although quarry operations have high economic significance, the effects they cause to the workers in terms of excessive noise production cannot be overlooked. This cross-sectional study assessed the extent of noise exposure and its influence on hearing capabilities among quarry workers in Ashanti region.Methods. The study involved 400 workers randomly selected from five quarries in Ashanti region from April to June 2012. Data was collected using structured questionnaires, physical examination, and audiological assessments. A logistic regression model was fitted to assess independent predictors of hearing loss.Results. All the machines used at the various quarries produced noise that exceeded the minimum threshold with levels ranging from 85.5 dBA to 102.7 dBA. 176 (44%) of study respondents had hearing threshold higher than 25 dBA. 18% and 2% of these were moderately (41–55 dBA) and severely (71–90 dBA) impaired, respectively. Age, duration of work, and use of earplugs independently predicted the development of hearing loss. Use of earplugs showed a protective effect on the development of hearing loss (OR = 0.45; 95% CI = 0.25, 0.84).Conclusion.This study provides empirical evidence on the extent of damage caused to quarry workers as a result of excessive noise exposure. This will support the institution of appropriate protective measures to minimize this threat.


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