Acute, Repeated Exposure to Mobile Phone Noise and Audiometric Status of Young Adult Users in a University Community

Abstract

Background. Exposure to noise from mobile devices is suspected to affect hearing. Data are limited, particularly in less developed countries. We assessed noise levels from mobile phones and user audiometric status at University of Ibadan, Nigeria, in an initial cross-sectional study. Methods. Fifty-eight staff and 45 young adult students owning mobile phones were selected. A pretested questionnaire assessed demographics, phone attributes, and predominant ear used for making and receiving calls. Noise was measured in A-weighted decibels. Pure tone audiometry was conducted at varying frequencies. Statistics computed included Chi-square and t-tests. Results. Certain phone brands used by students were commonly reported. More utilized right ears to make or receive calls. Mean reported mobile phone use duration by students was 2.9±1.7 years, lower than among staff, 3.4±1.9 years (P<0.05). There were differences in use of head phones (22.2%, 12.1%) and speakers (51.1%, 15.5%) by students and staff, respectively (P<0.05). Mean measured noise levels of phones when ringing, per user settings, were high 91.9±16.1 dBA (students) and 93.3±10.9 dBA (staff). Audiometry suggested 22.2% students and 28.0% staff had some evidence of hearing impairment. Conclusions. Mobile phones noise levels were high, but exposures though frequent were of short duration. Larger, longitudinal studies are needed on phone use and hearing impairment.