Lipid Profiles, Body Mass Index and their relationship with Noise-Induced Hearing Loss among Tabriz major Industrial Workers

Abstract

Introduction: Noise is the most important and most common physical hazard in the workplace, which can have adverse auditory and non-auditory effects on workers' health. The most important auditory effect is noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). This type of hearing loss is irreversible but 100% preventable and can impose a heavy economic and social burden on society if the preventive measures are not taken. Different risk factors are involved in NIHL. Previous studies have shown that hyperlipidemia and obesity are risk factors for NIHL. But given the scant and inconsistent evidence, further studies are needed. Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between lipid profile and body mass index (BMI) with noise-induced hearing loss. Materials and Methods: This study is a cross-sectional and analytical study. To achieve the objectives of the study, the data recorded in the health records of 1050 workers in four major industries of Tabriz were used. Laboratory and demographic data as well as audiometric test results of individuals aged 20-55 years who were exposed to noise above 85 dB for at least one year were extracted from their health records and then entered into SPSS software and analyzed using statistical tests, the relationship between fat profile and BMI with noise-induced hearing loss. Results: A total of 1050 cases were evaluated. Results showed that there was a significant difference between TCHOL and TCHOL / HDL in normal and NIHL groups in both ears (P <0.05). Also, in the logistic regression model after adjusting for age, work experience, gender, marital status, smoking, hypertension and fasting blood sugar, it was observed that hyperlipidemia and obesity were not significantly related to noise-induced hearing loss. The results of correlation between lipid profile and body mass index showed that after adjustment for age, smoking, blood pressure and fasting blood glucose, TG and HDL were positively and negatively correlated with body mass index, Respectively (P <0.001). Conclusion: Although there was no significant relationship between lipid profile and BMI with NIHL, there was a significant difference in TCHOL and HD / HDL between normal and NIHL groups. However, in periodic examinations, high BMI as a risk factor for hyperlipidemia and hyperlipidemia should also be considered as one of the risk factors for NIHL by occupational health experts and occupational medicine specialists. In addition to the treatment of people with hyperlipidemia, as a preventive measure, their exposure to noise above the permitted level should be limited.