Hearing Loss Among Sailors: A Study At The Western Naval Command, Sekondi

ABSTRACT Background: Hearing Sensitivity is the commonest form of hearing. Occupational hearing loss has received little or no attention in most industries and has left many employees with hearing loss of varying degrees after retirement. The navy has not been spared in this area as some of its personnel exposed to varying levels of noise. This study was carried out to determine the prevalence of hearing loss and to investigate the risk factors associated with hearing loss among naval personnel of the Ghana Armed Forces at the Secondi Naval Base. Methods: The descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed in this study. A random sample of 153 naval personnel from the Sekondi naval base took part in this study. Both air and bone conduction of the ear were measured using an audiometer and additional data collect using a structured questionnaire. Data analysis in the form of descriptive statistics and inferential statistical tests, specifically Independent t-test and the Chi-square statistic were done using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (V. 22.0). Results: The prevalence of hearing loss among the naval personnel was 28.1%. Working in the engine room, ageing, diabetes and hypertension were the main risk factors associated with hearing loss. Other less significant risk factors were non-use and poor use of ear protectors, and exposure to loud music. Conclusion: The prevalence of hearing loss among naval personnel remains a source of concern. The Ghana navy command and the health directorate of the Ghana Armed Forces should carry out regular ear and hearing screening of their naval personnel for early identification, treatment and prevention of hearing loss among the personnel. Earmuffs and earplugs should also be provided for the naval personnel with proper instruction on its use.