Knowledge, Attitude and Practices about Role of Noise in Hearing loss among Airmen of Pakistan Air Force and Aviators of Pakistan Army

Objective: To assess knowledge attitude and practices about role of noise in hearing loss among airmen of Pakistan Air force and aviators of Pakistan Army. Subjects and Methods: This cross sectional study was performed at Pakistan Air Force Base Chaklala and Pakistan Army Aviation Base Dhamial Camp from 1st April to 31st July 2007. A total of 100 Airmen of Pakistan Air Force and 100 Aviators of Pakistan Army were selected by purposive (non-probability) sampling for the study and a comprehensive questionnaire was given after taking informed written consent. Results: The mean age in airmen was 35 years and in aviators it was 38 years. 24% airmen were exposed to noise ( 90 dB) for more than 8 hours/day as compared to 38% of aviators. 91% of airmen and 87% of aviators knew that noise has harmful effect on hearing. A significant difference was observed between airmen and aviators on knowledge about ear protective devices. 92% airmen and 74% aviators knew about ear protection devices. Among airmen, 79% liked to wear protective devices as compared to 63% aviators. It was observed that 74% airmen and 55% aviators wore protective devices while on duty. Conclusion: This study demonstrated a wide gap between the knowledge and practices with regards to the protective measures taken. It showed that airmen had better level of knowledge and better attitudes and practices regarding use of protective devices as compared to aviators