Recreational Noise and Hearing Loss. Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Background: Noise Induced Hearing Loss is a sensorineural hearing loss caused by exposure to loud noises within a long duration. In 2015, WHO predict that more than 1 billion teenagers and young adults are at risk of hearing loss due to unsafe listening practices. There is yet a concrete conclusion on how recreational noise effect hearing ability. This study aims to discover whether recreational noise can cause hearing loss. Purpose: To study the effect recreational activities, have on hearing ability. Method: The design of this study is a systematic review and meta-analysis method with a case-control approach. Of the 2072 studies identified, 3 studies passed the Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) eligibility test and was proceed to a meta-analysis using the REVMAN MANAGER 5.4 software. Results: The result are there is no significant effect of recreational noise on hearing loss (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.16, 06.26 P = 0.99). Conclusion: Statistically, there is no clinical significance of hearing loss caused by exposure from recreational activities, but there is a need for more variety of recreational activates sound exposure outside of the music sphere and need for more homogenous of methods amongst Noise Induced Hearing Loss caused by Recreational Activities.