Hearing threshold of sawmillers in Kaduna, Nigeria

Background: Hearing loss due to occupational noise exposure is a malady with millions of employees having occupational hearing loss (OHL) worldwide though under-appreciated. The neglect of hearing loss, especially OHL has resulted in human and economic consequences worldwide. The WHO estimates a global burden of 1.06 million in Sub-Saharan Africa. Nigeria is experiencing rapid industrial growth, and large number of workers are exposed to industrial noise. Prevention of noise-induced hearing loss is relatively simple and inexpensive. Aims and Objectives: This study was carried out to determine the pattern and prevalence of hearing loss among sawmillers at old Fanteka market, Kaduna. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study of the hearing threshold of sawmillers at the old Fanteka market, Kaduna. Ethical clearance was obtained from both the Kaduna state Ministry of Health and the National Ear Care Centre, Kaduna. Questionnaires were duly completed and thereafter the participants had pure tone audiometry in a soundproof booth. Noise meter was used to measure the sound level at the workplace and machines. Pure tone average was calculated for both the left and right ear. Statistical analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 16.0, Chicago, Illinois, USA). Results: One hundred and twenty sawmillers with age- and sex-matched controls were assessed. Subjects' age ranged between 20 and 62 years, mean age of 31.36 ± 11.33, whereas controls' age ranged between 20 and 70 years, mean age of 33.29 ± 7.40. All the subjects were males. Prevalence of sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) was 26.7%. Conclusion: Noise level within the study site environment ranged from 85 to 105 dB. The prevalence of SNHL was 26.70%, moderate type 9-16.70% by pure tone average bilaterally.