Evaluation of awareness of noise-induced hearing loss among South African soccer spectators

摘要

South African Premier Soccer League matches have recently come under spotlight as recreational activities with potentially hazardous noise levels. While much is known about the noise levels during some of these matches, little is known about the awareness and perceptions of the spectators regarding the risks posed by noise during these matches. This study will evaluate the awareness of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) among South African soccer spectators, determine their patterns of exposure to loud noises and their attitude towards hearing protection use. A descriptive quantitative cross-sectional study, using a 24-question, self-administered questionnaire was used. Eighty-two soccer spectators (47 males and 35 females), selected via convenience sampling before the start of a match completed the questionnaire. About half of the respondents 48 percent [Cl: 36.3, 59.9 percent] reported being aware that the noise they were exposed to during soccer matches could potentially be harmful to their hearing. Eighty-seven percent (87 percent) [Cl: 76.6, 93.4 percent] of them did not consider noise-induced hearing loss to be "a very big problem" when compared to other health concerns such as drug and alcohol abuse. Most respondents in this study were not aware of the potential harm of noise to their hearing and most also did not consider hearing loss from noise exposure during soccer matches to be a serious health concern.