Prevalence and Factors Associated With Occupational Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Among Palm Oil Mill Workers in Selangor, Malaysia

  • 0Social and Preventive Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, MYS.

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Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Occupational noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) affects 42.7% of Malaysian palm oil mill workers. Key risk factors include long employment duration and prior noise exposure, highlighting the need for hearing conservation programs.

Area Of Science

  • Occupational Health
  • Audiology
  • Public Health

Background

  • Occupational noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a significant global health concern.
  • Malaysia, particularly Selangor, faces a high incidence of NIHL, predominantly in the manufacturing sector.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To determine the prevalence of NIHL among palm oil mill workers in Selangor, Malaysia.
  • To identify factors associated with NIHL in this specific occupational group.

Main Methods

  • A cross-sectional study analyzed data from 2021-2022.
  • Included data from collection forms, noise assessments, and audiometric tests.

Main Results

  • The prevalence of NIHL was 42.7% among 143 participants.
  • Factors associated with NIHL included employment duration (≥10 years), prior occupational noise exposure, and inconsistent use of hearing protection.

Conclusions

  • NIHL is highly prevalent in Selangor's palm oil mill workers.
  • Modifiable factors linked to NIHL emphasize the importance of targeted hearing conservation programs.