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Balk SJ, Bochner RE, Ramdhanie MA, Reilly BK. Preventing Excessive Noise Exposure in Infants, Children, and Adolescents. Pediatrics 2023; 152:e2023063753. [PMID: 37864408 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2023-063753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Noise exposure is a major cause of hearing loss in adults. Yet, noise affects people of all ages, and noise-induced hearing loss is also a problem for young people. Sensorineural hearing loss caused by noise and other toxic exposures is usually irreversible. Environmental noise, such as traffic noise, can affect learning, physiologic parameters, and quality of life. Children and adolescents have unique vulnerabilities to noise. Children may be exposed beginning in NICUs and well-baby nurseries, at home, at school, in their neighborhoods, and in recreational settings. Personal listening devices are increasingly used, even by small children. Infants and young children cannot remove themselves from noisy situations and must rely on adults to do so, children may not recognize hazardous noise exposures, and teenagers generally do not understand the consequences of high exposure to music from personal listening devices or attending concerts and dances. Environmental noise exposure has disproportionate effects on underserved communities. In this report and the accompanying policy statement, common sources of noise and effects on hearing at different life stages are reviewed. Noise-abatement interventions in various settings are discussed. Because noise exposure often starts in infancy and its effects result mainly from cumulative exposure to loud noise over long periods of time, more attention is needed to its presence in everyday activities starting early in life. Listening to music and attending dances, concerts, and celebratory and other events are sources of joy, pleasure, and relaxation for many people. These situations, however, often result in potentially harmful noise exposures. Pediatricians can potentially lessen exposures, including promotion of safer listening, by raising awareness in parents, children, and teenagers. Noise exposure is underrecognized as a serious public health issue in the United States, with exposure limits enforceable only in workplaces and not for the general public, including children and adolescents. Greater awareness of noise hazards is needed at a societal level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie J Balk
- Children's Hospital at Montefiore, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Risa E Bochner
- Department of Pediatrics, New York City Health and Hospitals Harlem, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York
| | | | - Brian K Reilly
- Otolaryngology and Pediatrics, George Washington University Medical School, Children's National Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia
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Toivonen M, Pääkkönen R, Niemensivu R, Aarnisalo A, Mäkitie AA. Acute Acoustic Trauma after Exposure to Assault Rifle Noise among Conscripts in the Finnish Defence Forces-A Population-Based Survey. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3366. [PMID: 36834060 PMCID: PMC9961644 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20043366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Conscripts are exposed to various sources of impulse noise despite hearing protection recommendations. The aim of this study was to investigate the frequency of acute acoustic trauma (AAT) among conscripts after exposure to assault rifle noise in the Finnish Defence Forces (FDF). This nationwide population-based cohort comprised all conscripts (>220,000) in the FDF during the years 1997-2003 and 2008-2010. We included those who claimed to have AAT symptoms from assault rifle noise during the study periods. During the investigated 10 years, 1617 conscripts (annual variation, 75-276) experienced a new hearing loss due to AAT. Altogether, 1456 (90%) of all AAT-induced hearing losses were caused by rifle-caliber weapons and 1304 (90%) of them when firing a blank cartridge. There was no clear diminishing trend in the annual numbers of AATs. In 1277 (88%) incidents, no hearing protector was used. Tinnitus was the most prominent symptom. Hearing losses after AAT were typically mild, but serious deficits also occurred. In conclusion, we found that 0.7-1.5% of the conscripts experienced an AAT during their service in the FDF. Most incidents occurred when firing a blank cartridge with a rifle-caliber weapon and with no hearing protector in use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markku Toivonen
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, FI-00029 HUS Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Riina Niemensivu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, FI-00029 HUS Helsinki, Finland
| | - Antti Aarnisalo
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, FI-00029 HUS Helsinki, Finland
| | - Antti A. Mäkitie
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, FI-00029 HUS Helsinki, Finland
- Research Program in Systems Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland
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Schwebel DC. The forgotten facet of firearms safety: Unintentional gun injuries and deaths in the United States. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1137725. [PMID: 37033015 PMCID: PMC10076623 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1137725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
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Walser-Reichenbach SM, Gerstner DG, Twardella D, Jenkac C, Weilnhammer V, Hendrowarsito L, Perez-Alvarez C, Steffens T, Stilianakis NI, Herr CEW, Heinze S. The Relevance of Leisure Noise to Hearing Threshold Shifts: A Longitudinal Analysis Among Adolescents. JOURNAL OF SPEECH, LANGUAGE, AND HEARING RESEARCH : JSLHR 2022; 65:1186-1195. [PMID: 35226539 DOI: 10.1044/2021_jslhr-21-00080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to analyze the association of total leisure noise exposure and hearing threshold shifts over 5 years among adolescents enrolled in the Ohrkan cohort study. METHOD The Ohrkan cohort of 2,148 students aged 13-19 years was recruited from 2009 to 2011 and followed up 5 years later. Complete baseline and follow-up reports on exposure and outcome were available for 989 participants. Leisure noise exposure was assessed by questionnaires, and clinical audiometric examinations were performed. Two outcomes were defined: occurrence of the Niskar notch pattern and audiometry showing maximum hearing threshold values at 3, 4, and 6 kHz (both ears). Longitudinal analysis using generalized estimating equations was performed. RESULTS High total leisure noise exposure, defined as an energy equivalent of a 40-hr week of > 85 dBA, was estimated for 32.7% of students at baseline and 63.8% at follow-up. A noise notch was observed in 1.1% of adolescents at baseline and 3.3% at follow-up. At baseline, the maximum measured threshold shift was 55 dB, which increased to 85 dB at the follow-up. Longitudinal analysis did not reveal an association between leisure noise exposure and hearing thresholds. Hearing threshold shifts or noise notches were associated with sex, school type, and time point of measurement. CONCLUSIONS No relationship was found between leisure noise and hearing thresholds. Male adolescents and those attending secondary general schools, with graduation following completion of ninth or 10th grade, had a greater likelihood of developing hearing threshold shifts. Prevention programs should focus on these risk groups. SUPPLEMENTAL MATERIAL https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.19233462.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra M Walser-Reichenbach
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health/Epidemiology, Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Munich, Germany
- Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry and Epidemiology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
| | - Doris G Gerstner
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health/Epidemiology, Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Munich, Germany
| | - Dorothee Twardella
- Centre for Early Cancer Detection and Cancer Registration, Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Christina Jenkac
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health/Epidemiology, Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Munich, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany
| | - Veronika Weilnhammer
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health/Epidemiology, Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Munich, Germany
| | - Lana Hendrowarsito
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health/Epidemiology, Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Thomas Steffens
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Hospital Regensburg, Germany
| | - Nikolaos I Stilianakis
- Joint Research Centre, European Commission, Ispra, Italy
- Department of Biometry and Epidemiology, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Caroline E W Herr
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health/Epidemiology, Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Munich, Germany
- University of Munich, Germany
| | - Stefanie Heinze
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health/Epidemiology, Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Munich, Germany
- Institute and Outpatient Clinic for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany
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Reel LA, Hicks CB, Arnold C. Noise Exposure and Use of Hearing Protection Among Adolescents in Rural Areas. Am J Audiol 2022; 31:32-44. [PMID: 34898248 DOI: 10.1044/2021_aja-20-00196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) has been found in rural children, potentially due to occupational and recreational noise exposure without consistent use of hearing protection devices (HPDs). However, questions remain regarding the specifics of rural adolescents' noise exposure and use of hearing protection around different types of noise. As such, the purpose of the current study was to provide preliminary results on rural adolescents' noise exposure and use of hearing protection for gunfire, heavy machinery, power tools, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), and music. METHOD A questionnaire was administered to 197 students (seventh to 12th grade) from rural schools in West Texas. Questions were related to noise exposure and use of HPDs for specific categories of noise. Testing was performed at the schools, with an investigator recording each student's responses. RESULTS Approximately 18%-44% of adolescents reported exposure 12 or more times a year to gunfire, heavy machinery, power tools, and ATVs. Only 1%-18% of the adolescents reported never being exposed to such noise sources. Almost half of rural adolescents never used hearing protection around gunfire, and 77%-91% reported never wearing hearing protection when exposed to heavy machinery, power tools, and ATVs. CONCLUSIONS The current study revealed that rural adolescents are exposed to noise sources that could damage their hearing. However, the majority of rural adolescents do not consistently wear hearing protection. Additional research is now needed to extend these findings by assessing rural adolescents' duration of exposure to different noise sources, in addition to investigating prevention of NIHL in this population. Supplemental Material https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.17139335.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leigh Ann Reel
- Department of Speech-Language and Hearing Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock
| | - Candace Bourland Hicks
- Department of Speech-Language and Hearing Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock
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Pienkowski M. Loud Music and Leisure Noise Is a Common Cause of Chronic Hearing Loss, Tinnitus and Hyperacusis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:4236. [PMID: 33923580 PMCID: PMC8073416 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18084236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
High sound levels capable of permanently damaging the ear are experienced not only in factories and war zones but in concert halls, nightclubs, sports stadiums, and many other leisure environments. This review summarizes evidence that loud music and other forms of "leisure noise" are common causes of noise-induced hearing loss, tinnitus, and hyperacusis, even if audiometric thresholds initially remain within clinically normal limits. Given the huge global burden of preventable noise-induced hearing loss, noise limits should be adopted in a much broader range of settings, and education to promote hearing conservation should be a higher public health priority.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Pienkowski
- Osborne College of Audiology, Salus University, Elkins Park, PA 19027, USA
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Feder K, Marro L, McNamee J, Michaud D. Prevalence of loud leisure noise activities among a representative sample of Canadians aged 6-79 years. THE JOURNAL OF THE ACOUSTICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA 2019; 146:3934. [PMID: 31795722 DOI: 10.1121/1.5132949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
This population-based study estimates the prevalence of loud leisure noise exposure and hearing protection usage among Canadians, as well as the population potentially at-risk using an occupational limit of 85 dBA, LEX 40 h, which denotes a typical occupational noise limit for a 40 hour work week. A total of 10 460 participants, aged 6-79 years, completed a Canadian Health Measures Survey household questionnaire. Loud leisure noise was defined by vocal effort required while communicating at arm's length except for loud personal listening device (PLD) usage with earbuds/headphones, which included both volume setting and vocal effort. The most prevalent loud leisure noise activities were amplified music, car/home stereo listening, and power tools, with 40% reporting each source, followed by sporting/entertainment (25%), gasoline engines (23%), and loud PLD listening (19.5%). Loud leisure noise was more prevalent among 12-39 year olds and males. Hearing protection usage was uncommon, from 44.2% (firearms) to 20.3% (power tools) and below 3% during amplified music and sporting/entertainment events. Calculations using self-reported duration of loud leisure noise activities estimated that 6.6 × 106 Canadians were in the high cumulative noise exposure category. A large proportion of Canadians would be expected to develop some degree of noise-induced hearing loss should this pattern persist over years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katya Feder
- Health Canada, Environmental and Radiation Health Sciences Directorate, Consumer and Clinical Radiation Protection Bureau, 775 Brookfield Road, Ottawa, Ontario K1A 1C1, Canada
| | - Leonora Marro
- Health Canada, Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Population Studies Division, Biostatistics Section, Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0K9, Canada
| | - James McNamee
- Health Canada, Environmental and Radiation Health Sciences Directorate, Consumer and Clinical Radiation Protection Bureau, 775 Brookfield Road, Ottawa, Ontario K1A 1C1, Canada
| | - David Michaud
- Health Canada, Environmental and Radiation Health Sciences Directorate, Consumer and Clinical Radiation Protection Bureau, 775 Brookfield Road, Ottawa, Ontario K1A 1C1, Canada
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Laffoon SM, Stewart M, Zheng Y, Meinke DK. Conventional audiometry, extended high-frequency audiometry, and DPOAEs in youth recreational firearm users. Int J Audiol 2019; 58:S40-S48. [PMID: 30618293 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2018.1536833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
To determine if conventional audiometry, EHFA, and pDPOAEs are useful as early indicators of cochlear damage from recreational firearm impulse noise exposure in youth firearm users. Quantitative cross-sectional descriptive pilot study. Descriptive statistics and MANOVA with post hoc Tukey Honestly Significant Difference test were used to compare pDPOAEs (1-10 kHz), conventional audiometry (0.25-8 kHz), and EHFA (10-16 kHz) in YFUs. 25 YFUs (n = 11 7-12 years; n = 14 13-17 years) with self-reported poor compliance with hearing protector device wear. Conventional audiometric thresholds at 2-, 3- and 4 kHz were significantly poorer than normal but did not distinguish between older and younger YFUs or between the GBE and the contralateral ear. EHFA thresholds at 14- and 16 kHz were significantly poorer than for other frequencies, and differentiate between older and younger youths, but do not distinguish the GBE from the contralateral ear. Finally, pDPOAE levels were significantly reduced at 8- and 10 kHz but did not show any differences for the younger versus older YFUs or for the GBE from the contralateral ear. Conclusion: Both EHFA and pDPOAEs provide early evidence of NIHL in YFUs, and may be useful for the early detection of NIHL in YFUs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shana M Laffoon
- a Communication Sciences and Disorders , Central Michigan University , Mount Pleasant , Michigan , United States
| | - Michael Stewart
- a Communication Sciences and Disorders , Central Michigan University , Mount Pleasant , Michigan , United States
| | - Yunfang Zheng
- a Communication Sciences and Disorders , Central Michigan University , Mount Pleasant , Michigan , United States
| | - Deanna K Meinke
- b Audiology and Speech-Language Sciences , University of Northern Colorado , Greeley , Colorado , United States
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Johnson TA, Cooper S, Stamper GC, Chertoff M. Noise Exposure Questionnaire: A Tool for Quantifying Annual Noise Exposure. J Am Acad Audiol 2018; 28:14-35. [PMID: 28054909 DOI: 10.3766/jaaa.15070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to both occupational and nonoccupational noise is recognized as a risk factor for noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). Although audiologists routinely inquire regarding history of noise exposure, there are limited tools available for quantifying this history or for identifying those individuals who are at highest risk for NIHL. Identifying those at highest risk would allow hearing conservation activities to be focused on those individuals. PURPOSE To develop a detailed, task-based questionnaire for quantifying an individual's annual noise exposure (ANE) arising from both occupational and nonoccupational sources (aim 1) and to develop a short screening tool that could be used to identify individuals at high risk of NIHL (aim 2). RESEARCH DESIGN Review of relevant literature for questionnaire development followed by a cross-sectional descriptive and correlational investigation of the newly developed questionnaire and screening tool. STUDY SAMPLE One hundred fourteen college freshmen completed the detailed questionnaire for estimating ANE (aim 1) and answered the potential screening questions (aim 2). An additional 59 adults participated in data collection where the accuracy of the screening tool was evaluated (aim 2). DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS In study aim 1, all participants completed the detailed questionnaire and the potential screening questions. Descriptive statistics were used to quantify participant participation in various noisy activities and their associated ANE estimates. In study aim 2, linear regression techniques were used to identify screening questions that could be used to predict a participant's estimated ANE. Clinical decision theory was then used to assess the accuracy with which the screening tool predicted high and low risk of NIHL in a new group of participants. RESULTS Responses on the detailed questionnaire indicated that our sample of college freshmen reported high rates of participation in a variety of occupational and nonoccupational activities associated with high sound levels. Although participation rates were high, ANE estimates were below highest-risk levels for many participants because the frequency of participation in these activities was low in many cases. These data illustrate how the Noise Exposure Questionnaire (NEQ) could be used to provide detailed and specific information regarding an individual's exposure to noise. The results of aim 2 suggest that the screening tool, the 1-Minute Noise Screen, can be used to identify those participants with high- and low-risk noise exposure, allowing more in-depth assessment of noise exposure history to be targeted at those most at risk. CONCLUSIONS The NEQ can be used to estimate an individual's ANE and the 1-Minute Noise Screen can be used to identify those participants at highest risk of NIHL. These tools allow audiologists to focus hearing conservation efforts on those individuals who are most in need of those services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany A Johnson
- Hearing and Speech Department, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS
| | | | | | - Mark Chertoff
- Hearing and Speech Department, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS
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Murphy WJ, Flamme GA, Campbell AR, Zechmann EL, Tasko SM, Lankford JE, Meinke DK, Finan DS, Stewart M. The reduction of gunshot noise and auditory risk through the use of firearm suppressors and low-velocity ammunition. Int J Audiol 2018; 57:S28-S41. [DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2017.1407459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- William J. Murphy
- Hearing Loss Prevention Team, Engineering and Physical Hazards Branch, Division of Applied Research and Technology, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH, USA,
| | - Gregory A. Flamme
- Stephenson and Stephenson Research and Consulting, LLC, Forest Grove, OR, USA,
| | - Adam R. Campbell
- Hearing Loss Prevention Team, Engineering and Physical Hazards Branch, Division of Applied Research and Technology, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH, USA,
| | - Edward L. Zechmann
- Hearing Loss Prevention Team, Engineering and Physical Hazards Branch, Division of Applied Research and Technology, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH, USA,
| | - Stephen M. Tasko
- Stephenson and Stephenson Research and Consulting, LLC, Forest Grove, OR, USA,
- Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI, USA,
| | - James E. Lankford
- Allied Health and Communication Disorders, Northern Illinois University, Dekalb, IL, USA,
| | - Deanna K. Meinke
- Audiology and Speech-Language Sciences, University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, CO, USA, and
| | - Donald S. Finan
- Audiology and Speech-Language Sciences, University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, CO, USA, and
| | - Michael Stewart
- Department of Communication Disorders, Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, MI, USA
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Meinke DK, Finan DS, Flamme GA, Murphy WJ, Stewart M, Lankford JE, Tasko S. Prevention of Noise-Induced Hearing Loss from Recreational Firearms. Semin Hear 2017; 38:267-281. [PMID: 29026261 DOI: 10.1055/s-0037-1606323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In the United States and other parts of the world, recreational firearm shooting is a popular sport that puts the hearing of the shooter at risk. Peak sound pressure levels (SPLs) from firearms range from ∼140 to 175 dB. The majority of recreational firearms (excluding small-caliber 0.17 and 0.22 rifles and air rifles) generate between 150 and 165 dB peak SPLs. High-intensity impulse sounds will permanently damage delicate cochlear structures, and thus individuals who shoot firearms are at a higher risk of bilateral, high-frequency, noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) than peer groups who do not shoot. In this article, we describe several factors that influence the risk of NIHL including the use of a muzzle brake, the number of shots fired, the distance between shooters, the shooting environment, the choice of ammunition, the use of a suppressor, and hearing protection fit and use. Prevention strategies that address these factors and recommendations for specialized hearing protectors designed for shooting sports are offered. Partnerships are needed between the hearing health community, shooting sport groups, and wildlife conservation organizations to develop and disseminate accurate information and promote organizational resources that support hearing loss prevention efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deanna K Meinke
- Audiology and Speech-Language Sciences, University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, Colorado
| | - Donald S Finan
- Audiology and Speech-Language Sciences, University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, Colorado
| | - Gregory A Flamme
- Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, Michigan
| | - William J Murphy
- Division of Applied Research and Technology, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Michael Stewart
- Department of Communication Disorders, Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, Michigan
| | - James E Lankford
- Allied Health and Communication Disorders, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, Illinois
| | - Stephen Tasko
- Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, Michigan
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Warner-Czyz AD, Cain S. Age and gender differences in children and adolescents' attitudes toward noise. Int J Audiol 2015; 55:83-92. [PMID: 26642751 DOI: 10.3109/14992027.2015.1098784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Most school-aged children experience exposure to hazardous sound levels via high-risk noise activities (e.g. loud music/concerts, firearms). Little information exists regarding factors influencing pediatric engagement in these activities and use of hearing protection devices. This study explores effects of age, gender, and attitudes toward noise on participation in acoustic risk-taking behaviors and hearing conservation practices in children and adolescents. DESIGN Cross-sectional. STUDY SAMPLE Children and adolescents (10-19 years) with normal hearing. RESULTS Most children and adolescents (86.5%) participate in at least one potentially high-risk noise behavior. The most frequently cited activities include sporting events, concerts, and playing a musical instrument. Use of hearing protection devices varies by activity, with consistent wear while using firearms but inconsistent application during all other activities. Gender, but not age, influences acoustic risk-taking behaviors: Boys engage in significantly more high-risk noise activities than girls. Participants expressed a neutral attitude toward noise that persisted across age and gender, but a trend shifting toward a pro-noise attitude emerges in later adolescence. CONCLUSIONS The proliferation of acoustic risk-taking behaviors and lack of hearing conservation practices in children and adolescents requires attention at an early age to prevent future noise-induced hearing loss and subsequent quality of life effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea D Warner-Czyz
- a Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders , The University of Texas at Dallas, Callier Advanced Hearing Research Center , Dallas USA.,b Dallas Cochlear Implant Program , Dallas , USA
| | - Sarah Cain
- a Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders , The University of Texas at Dallas, Callier Advanced Hearing Research Center , Dallas USA
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review will discuss the real-world risk factors involved in noise-induced hearing loss as a result of common and popular recreational activities prone to mid and high levels of noise exposure. Although there are currently no interventional measures available to reverse or mitigate preexisting hearing loss from noise, we discuss the vital importance of hearing loss prevention from noise exposure avoidance and reduction. RECENT FINDINGS Despite a seeming understanding of the effects of noise exposure from various recreational activities and devices, a large percentage of the general public who is at risk of such noise-induced hearing loss still chooses to refrain from using hearing protection instruments. SUMMARY While occupational exposures pose the greatest traditional risk to hearing conservation in selected workers, recreational risk factors for noise-induced hearing loss may be more insidious in overall effect given the indifferent attitude of much of the general public and particularly our youths toward hearing protection during recreational activities. Active counseling regarding the consequences of excessive noise exposure and the potential benefits to hearing from usage of hearing protection instruments is critical to providing best possible care in the hearing health professions.
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Meinke DK, Murphy WJ, Finan DS, Lankford JE, Flamme GA, Stewart M, Soendergaard J, Jerome TW. Auditory risk estimates for youth target shooting. Int J Audiol 2014; 53 Suppl 2:S16-25. [PMID: 24564688 DOI: 10.3109/14992027.2013.865845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To characterize the impulse noise exposure and auditory risk for youth recreational firearm users engaged in outdoor target shooting events. The youth shooting positions are typically standing or sitting at a table, which places the firearm closer to the ground or reflective surface when compared to adult shooters. DESIGN Acoustic characteristics were examined and the auditory risk estimates were evaluated using contemporary damage-risk criteria for unprotected adult listeners and the 120-dB peak limit suggested by the World Health Organization (1999) for children. STUDY SAMPLE Impulses were generated by 26 firearm/ammunition configurations representing rifles, shotguns, and pistols used by youth. Measurements were obtained relative to a youth shooter's left ear. RESULTS All firearms generated peak levels that exceeded the 120 dB peak limit suggested by the WHO for children. In general, shooting from the seated position over a tabletop increases the peak levels, LAeq8 and reduces the unprotected maximum permissible exposures (MPEs) for both rifles and pistols. Pistols pose the greatest auditory risk when fired over a tabletop. CONCLUSION Youth should utilize smaller caliber weapons, preferably from the standing position, and always wear hearing protection whenever engaging in shooting activities to reduce the risk for auditory damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deanna K Meinke
- * Audiology and Speech-Language Sciences, University of Northern Colorado , Greeley , USA
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