Leisure Noise-Induced Tinnitus Prevalence and Risk Factors Among Children and Adolescents From Southern Brazil

This study aimed to determine the prevalence and risk factors of leisure noise-induced tinnitus among school-aged children and adolescents in Southern Brazil.

A cross-sectional observational study was conducted with sixth-grade students from 32 municipal schools in Itajaí, Santa Catarina, Brazil. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire from the Dangerous Decibels program, assessing demographics, hearing habits, noise exposure, and related symptoms, such as hearing loss and tinnitus. Statistical analyses included descriptive and multivariate methods, with a significance level set at 5%. The final sample included 1,835 participants (997 boys, 838 girls; M_age = 11.5 ± 0.8 years).

The overall prevalence of leisure noise-induced tinnitus was 72.15%. Multivariate analysis revealed significant associations between tinnitus and male gender (boys were 1.47 times more likely to report tinnitus than girls), older age, and a higher number of noise-related risk behaviors. However, no significant associations were found between tinnitus and socioeconomic risk factors or prior knowledge about noise exposure risks.

These findings reveal the high prevalence of leisure noise-induced tinnitus in this population, with male gender, older age, and increased engagement in noise-related activities as key risk factors. These results emphasize the need for targeted prevention strategies and educational initiatives to protect the hearing health of children and adolescents.