Date of Award

Spring 5-5-2022

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

M.Sc. in Audiology

Department

Department of Speech and Hearing

First Advisor

Ms. Bhargavi P G

Abstract

Aim: The study aims to culturally adapt, administer, and assess public awareness of people in Karnataka regarding hearing health and hearing loss.Subject and Method: The design used in this study was a cross-sectional survey design. The sampling method used in this study was Quota sampling. In total, 720 participants aged 20-60 completed a culturally adapted questionnaire. The questionnaire consisted of 22 questions targeting the awareness of hearing loss and hearing health focusing on four domains: (1) Knowledge about infant hearing loss, (2) Cleaning and treating, (3) The effect of overexposure to noise and loud sounds, (4) Diagnostic delay. Results: Nearly 70% of the correct responses were given to almost all the statements by the respondents, although specific essential knowledge was lacking. Only 56% and 50.23% knew about specialized tests available for a hearing evaluation and the recommended standards on the duration of noise exposure. Conclusion:There is a general lack of public awareness about ringing sensation and its impact on an individual’s daily activities. Most people were also unaware of recommendation guidelines regarding a reduction in exposure duration to high-intensity noises; hence these findings support the need for noise reduction informative initiatives. In conclusion, this audiological questionnaire appeared to be a simple, practical, and reliable tool.

The results showed a need for continued development of comprehensive hearing conservation programs focusing on hearing aid management, early infant hearing loss detection, and noise exposure prevention, which will be necessary to continue developing.

Share

COinS