The Prevalence, Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Occupational Hearing Loss Among Industrial Workers in Saudi Arabia.

Abstract

Purpose: Occupational noise poses a persistent hazard to hearing, while lack of awareness and inadequate hearing protection device (HPD) training heighten the risk of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). Few studies have investigated the effects of NIHL and HPD use in Saudi Arabia, with only one in Jeddah. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate the prevalence of occupational NIHL and assess workers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding HPDs in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Method: This cross-sectional study included 200 industrial workers aged 18-55 years who were exposed to noise. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including correlations and chi-squared tests. A 32-item questionnaire assessed the KAP regarding occupational NIHL and HPD usage. Hearing screening was conducted using pure-tone audiometry at 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 8 kHz. Participants who failed screening underwent a comprehensive audiological evaluation.

Results: The analysis revealed that 39.5% of the participants failed hearing screening. Regarding participants' knowledge, 82% believed that noise could affect hearing, 64.5% believed that NIHL could be prevented, and only 35% knew that it was permanent. In terms of HPD usage, 49% always wore them and 34% wore them sometimes. The main reason for not using HPDs was the difficulty communicating with others while wearing them (40%).

Conclusions: Findings revealed that the prevalence of occupational NIHL was higher than the global prevalence. Thus, hearing conservation programs and enhanced awareness of the permanent nature of NIHL can encourage HPD utilization, which is crucial for preventing diminished productivity, income, and overall quality of life.