A Survey of Knowledge and Attitude of College Students Toward Hearing Loss Prevention.

Background: College students risk hearing loss due to loud sound exposure during leisure activities. Hearing loss prevention is possible by reducing the noise from the source, using hearing protection devices and increasing their knowledge and awareness on the effects of loud sound exposure.

Objective: The study aims to assess the knowledge and attitude of college students regarding hearing loss and its prevention.

Study Design: A cross-sectional study design with a survey method was adopted. A total of 94 college students (mean age: 22 years; range: 18 to 26) who were pursuing an undergraduate and postgraduate degree (50 males and 44 females) formed the part of the study. The researcher administered a standardized self-reported Knowledge, Attitude and Behaviour questionnaire. The knowledge score in percentage and absolute scores for attitude were estimated.

Results: The mean knowledge score was 35.8 (SD ± 12.18; range: 12.5-75), and the attitude score was + 9.8 (SD ± 7.1; range: - 4 to + 30). Chi square test revealed no significant association between knowledge and attitude to sociodemographic characteristics.

Conclusion:  The study indicated that though college students lack knowledge, they had a positive attitude regarding hearing health and its protection. These findings implicate the importance of creating awareness and encouraging hearing protection strategies for college students.