Noise-induced hearing loss: a 10-year analysis of notifications according to the Brazilian Classification of Occupations.

Abstract

Introduction: Noise-induced hearing loss has a high incidence among Brazilian workers, causing socioeconomic and cognitive impairments.

Objectives: To describe noise-induced hearing loss according to professional occupation between 2012 and 2021.

Methods: This was a cross-sectional and descriptive study of Brazilian workers affected by noise-induced hearing loss. Data were collected from noise-induced hearing loss notifications filed with the Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação in Brazil. The absolute and relative frequencies of sociodemographic variables and occupational characteristics were assessed.

Results: A total of 7,413 cases of noise-induced hearing loss were notified in Brazil. Workers in industrial production were the most affected (56.4%). There was a higher prevalence in White (45.4%), male (87.3%) participants aged between 50 and 59 years (42.5%) from the Southeast region (43%). In this study, 3.5% of participants were temporarily removed from their position, 42.6% reported using personal protective equipment, and 65.7% did not use collective protective equipment. The most prevalent type of noise was continuous noise (33%).

Conclusions: Noise-induced hearing loss is prevalent among Brazilian workers and varies according to each occupational group. Cases of noise-induced hearing loss are underreported in Brazil.