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Occupational noise exposure and hearing: a systematic review
Arve Lie1, Marit Skogstad2, Håkon A Johannessen2
1National Institute of Occupational Health, P.O. Box 8149 Dep., 0033, Oslo, Norway. arve.lie@stami.no.
Summary
Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) affects 7-21% of workers, with declining rates in industrialized nations. Age remains the primary cause of hearing loss, though occupational noise exposure is a significant factor.
Area of Science:
- Occupational health
- Audiology
- Public health
Background:
- Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a significant occupational health concern.
- Distinguishing NIHL from age-related hearing loss is challenging at the individual level.
- Multiple factors beyond noise, including age, genetics, and lifestyle, contribute to hearing loss.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the development of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) in the working population.
- To analyze the prevalence and contributing factors of occupational hearing loss.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted across five major databases (MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, Health and Safety Abstracts).
- Keywords focused on workplace noise and associated health impacts.
- Rigorous screening and quality assessment of 22,413 initial articles resulted in 187 relevant studies for analysis.
Main Results:
- Occupational noise exposure accounts for 7-21% of hearing loss in workers, with higher prevalence in developing countries.
- Incidence of NIHL is decreasing in industrialized nations, likely due to preventive measures.
- Men, individuals in certain occupations (military, construction, agriculture), and those exposed to impulse noise are at higher risk.
Conclusions:
- The prevalence of NIHL is decreasing in industrialized countries, attributed to effective preventive strategies.
- Age-related hearing loss remains the predominant cause of hearing impairment.
- Further research may be needed to fully elucidate the complex interplay of factors influencing hearing health in the workforce.
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