Objective: To compare levels of hearing loss between controls and traffic noise exposed population of Karachi.
Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Dow University of Health Sciences from January 2016 to December 2017. A total of 100 subjects were selected from rickshaw drivers, traffic police men and shopkeepers from downtown areas. Their hearing levels were assessed using PTA and were compared to controls. Levels of hearing loss were based on WHO classification.
Results: Average of 70% of controls had normal hearing, compared to our subjects, in which only around 30% had normal hearing. Hearing loss was also associated with duration of noise exposure.
Conclusion: Significant burden of hearing loss exists in population that is being exposed to traffic noise. Much of this population is unaware of risks involved.
Key words: Noise, hearing loss, traffic, Karachi.
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