Table of Contents

ABSTRACT

This retrospective study examines the prevalence of audiological issues among individuals undergoing a Master Health Checkup (MHC) at a tertiary healthcare center from December 2018 to December 2021. A total of 1,886 participants aged 20 to 60 years were included, comprising 1,099 males (58.2%) and 787 females (41.8%). The study compares data among individuals with and without concerns about hearing loss, history of noise exposure, speech understanding difficulties and occupational. Data collected from outpatient records includes demographic information, primary complaint details, audiological evaluations, noise exposure history, occupation, medical history, and speech understanding difficulties. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 22, and percentage analysis and Pearson chi-square tests were used to analyze the data. The study results showed that many individuals with hearing-related complaints also presented with varying degrees of hearing loss. Pure tone audiometry was used to assess hearing sensitivity and identify hearing loss types. Statistical analysis revealed that (50.2%; n = 948) of individuals exhibited hearing loss, most commonly with sensorineural hearing loss (44.2%). Speech understanding difficulties were reported in 4.19% (n = 82) of participants, significantly correlated with different types of hearing loss. Factors such as duration of noise exposure, and occupation also positively correlate with the severity of hearing loss. Furthermore, occupational analysis highlighted higher prevalence rates of hearing loss among industrial workers (35.2%) and drivers (14.10%). These findings conclude that the importance of routine hearing screenings through the MHC program, regardless of their history/ complaint of hearing can help in early detection and intervention can help prevent further hearing deterioration and improve the overall quality of life.

Keywords: Audiology, hearing loss, Master Health Checkup, India