Screening questionnaire for noise induced hearing loss among military personnel

Abstract

Objectives: To study the effect of noise exposure on hearing sensitivity of the screened groups, analysis of questionnaire of noise exposure and to compare hearing impairment in different noise exposure categories. Materials and Methods: As a first part of the screening study, 1879 subjects were evaluated, 860 land-force, 358 air-forcc, 378 air-defense and 283 from navy. First noise exposure survey filled by the study group. Then screening air conduction pure tone audiogram was done for each participant. Patients who did not pass the screening air conduction pure tone audiogram were referred to the ENT and audiology unit for further evaluation, complete history, otological examination, and tympanometry. Results: the average duration of duty for the study group was 10.26 ± 8.06 years. 33.9 % of the study group was cigarette smoker. One hundred eighty eight subjects out of 1879 (10 %) did not pass the screening air conduction pure tone audiogram and thev were referred to audiolonv clinic. Discussion and Conclusion: 10 % of the high-risk noise exposed subjects had high frequencies hearing loss. This hearing loss could be minimized with the proper use of the hearing protective devices on exposure to intense noise level, as noise induced hearing loss is preventable disease by proper use of the hearing protective devices.