Prevalence of Ototoxic Chemical Exposure, Noise Exposure and Hearing Difficulty Among Workers in the United States, 2023.

Abstract

This study estimated the prevalence of hearing difficulty and workplace exposures to ototoxic chemicals and noise within US industries and occupations. This cross-sectional study examined 2023 National Health Interview Survey data for 17,726 workers. Weighted prevalence and adjusted prevalence ratios of self-reported hearing difficulty and self-reported workplace exposures to ototoxic chemicals, noise and a combination of these exposures were estimated. Eleven percent of workers reported hearing difficulty. Within the past year, 13% were exposed to ototoxic chemicals, 16% were exposed to noise, and 7% were exposed to both. Twenty-eight percent had a history of noise exposure. Workplace hearing hazards are common. This study was the first to report the overall prevalence of ototoxic chemical exposure among US workers. This exposure cannot be overlooked when protecting worker hearing.