A comparison of median hearing thresholds from U.S. Navy and U.S. Army audiometric data bases

This study examined 1984 monitoring audiometric data from U.S. Navy (military and civilian) employees whose workplace required a mandatory hearing conservation program. Median hearing thresholds were compared in U.S. Navy employees, U.S. Army employees also monitored by a hearing conservation program, and a standard population from the First National Health and Nutrition Survey. Age group and frequency-specific comparisons were included. Results at 4 kHz and 6 kHz demonstrated higher median thresholds in the Navy populations that were significantly higher by clinical and statistical criteria. Possible reasons for the differences are given.