Falls risk and hospitalization among retired workers with occupational noise-induced hearing loss

Can J Aging. 2014 Mar;33(1):84-91. doi: 10.1017/S0714980813000664. Epub 2013 Dec 17.

Abstract

This study sought to ascertain whether occupational noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) increased the risk of falls requiring hospitalization among retired workers. The study population consisted of males (age ≥ 65) with an average occupational noise exposure of 30.6 years and whose mean bilateral hearing loss was 42.2 dB HL at 3, 4, and 6 kHz. Seventy-two retired workers admitted to hospitals after a fall were matched with 216 controls from the same industrial sectors. Conditional logistic regression models were used to estimate the risk (odds ratio; [OR]) of falls leading to hospitalization by NIHL categories. Results showed a relationship between severe NIHL (≥ 52.5 dB HL) and the occurrence of a fall (OR: 1.97, CI95%: 1.001-3.876). Reducing falls among seniors fosters the maintenance of their autonomy. There is a definite need to acquire knowledge about harmful effects of occupational noise to support the prevention of NIHL and ensure healthier workplaces.

MeSH terms

  • Accidental Falls* / statistics & numerical data
  • Aged
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Hearing Loss, Noise-Induced / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Industry
  • Length of Stay* / statistics & numerical data
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Noise, Occupational / adverse effects*
  • Quebec
  • Retirement* / statistics & numerical data
  • Risk Assessment
  • Risk Factors