Abstract
BackgroundNoise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is an increasingly growing problem in young children. This is attributed to recreational noise being the most common cause of this problem. In young children, hearing problems can delay language development and reduce academic achievements. South Africa, in particular, has limited information and protective measures regarding the conservation of hearing in school-aged children.ObjectivesThe main aim of the study was to determine the perception of primary school teachers regarding NIHL. The study also aimed to determine if any hearing conservation programmes are being implemented in schools and the need for training of primary school teachers regarding NIHL.MethodA survey was conducted. In order to cover the population of interest, the sampled schools in Pretoria were clustered into urban, semi-urban and rural areas.ResultsThe majority of the teachers included in this study are aware of NIHL and its effects. They, however, lack the necessary resources and knowledge to effectively use this information. Most (67.5%) of the teachers indicated that they have never been exposed to children with NIHL in a school setting. It was also found that the majority (84%) of the schools included in the study do not implement hearing screening and conservation programmes.ConclusionAlthough the sample size was limited, the results correlate with other research in this field indicating a need for planning and implementation of hearing conservation programmes in schools, including training of teachers in order for these programmes to be effective.
Highlights
Introduction and literature reviewNoise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a hearing impairment caused by excessive or prolonged exposure to loud sounds
Most (67.5%) of the teachers indicated that they have never been exposed to children with NIHL in a school setting
The endolymphatic fluids of the cochlea are affected in the sense that the high energy transfer causes metabolic stress, which in turn results in swelling and degeneration of the balance and hearing nerve terminals that attach to the inner hair cells (IHCs)
Summary
Introduction and literature reviewNoise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a hearing impairment caused by excessive or prolonged exposure to loud sounds. The endolymphatic fluids of the cochlea are affected in the sense that the high energy transfer causes metabolic stress, which in turn results in swelling and degeneration of the balance and hearing nerve terminals that attach to the inner hair cells (IHCs). Sudden NIHL is caused by acoustic trauma, which results from sudden exposure to high intensity sound levels that cause instant damage to the hearing mechanism, for example, explosion or gun fire at close range (Taljaard, Leischman & Eikelboom, 2013). Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is an increasingly growing problem in young children. This is attributed to recreational noise being the most common cause of this problem. South Africa, in particular, has limited information and protective measures regarding the conservation of hearing in school-aged children
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