Loss of Balance Experienced by Industrial Workers Due to Hearing Problems

Background:

Industrial workers are frequently exposed to high levels of occupational noise, which constitutes one of the most common causes of hearing problems and noise-induced hearing loss. In addition to auditory impairment, prolonged noise exposure may affect balance functions due to the close anatomical relationship between the auditory and vestibular systems.

Objective:

The aim of this study is to investigate balance performance and balance-related activities of daily living in industrial workers with hearing problems who are exposed to occupational noise.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study will include 35 industrial workers with hearing problems who are exposed to occupational noise. Balance performance will be assessed using the Berg Balance Scale, and balance-related activities of daily living will be evaluated using the Vestibular Disorders Activities of Daily Living Scale. Sociodemographic characteristics and duration of daily noise exposure will be recorded. Statistical analyses will be performed using non-parametric tests and correlation analysis to identify potential relationships between variables.

Expected Outcome / Conclusion:

The study intends to determine whether balance problems experienced by industrial workers with hearing problems remain at a tolerable level in daily life. It is hypothesized that hearing problems related to occupational noise exposure may not be directly associated with clinically significant balance impairment in this population.

Inclusion criteria

• Employment in industrial or heavy industrial settings
• Age between 18 and 60 years
• Presence of hearing problems diagnosed prior to or after starting industrial work

Exclusion criteria

• Employment in office-based industrial positions
• Working duration of less than one year