Noise and hearing loss
Article Abstract:
In the United States, about 28 million people have hearing loss, and exposure to loud noises is at least partially responsible for the hearing impairment of 10 million of these persons. The delicate structures of the inner ear can be damaged by a brief episode to very loud noise, such as gunfire, or by chronic exposure to softer noise that is still hazardous. In the latter case, hearing loss is gradual and may not be noticed by the patient until it has progressed. Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) can be caused by recreational activities such as listening to music at high volumes, but the most common cause is occupational exposure. The workers at greatest risk include police officers, fire fighters, military personnel, construction and factory workers, farmers, musicians, and truck drivers. It is important to recognize that NIHL is preventable in virtually all cases. However, law designed to protect employees on the job and consumers using products that could be hazardous are not consistently enforced. In this article, research studies on NIHL are reviewed, and the physiological process involved is described. Strategies for preventing hearing loss and directions for future research are also discussed. The authors conclude that while individuals vary in their susceptibility to NIHL, persons of any age will suffer damage to the ear from exposure to sounds of great enough intensity and duration. The general public, particularly school children, should be educated about NIHL. Also, current regulations for protecting workers should be vigorously enforced and their scope should be broadened to cover all employees exposed to hazardous noise levels. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1990
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Prevalence of hearing loss among children 6 to 19 years of age: the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Article Abstract:
Thorough hearing examinations during childhood may identify children with hearing loss. Hearing losses can adversely affect the development of communication and social skills. Researchers examined 6,166 children aged 6 to 19 years for hearing loss as part of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Low-frequency or high-frequency hearing loss was identified in 15% of children, most commonly in one ear. For most children with hearing loss, the deficit was slight. Exposure to noise and tobacco smoke, ear infections, and other factors can affect hearing ability.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1998
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Infants tested for hearing loss -- United States, 1999-2001
Article Abstract:
The number of newborn babies who were tested for hearing loss increased 35% between 1999 and 2001. Nevertheless, many newborn babies are still not tested. Even those who are tested and found to have a hearing disorder are not always referred for treatment.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 2003
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