Noise Induced Hearing Loss in Indian Railway Loco Pilots: Are We Aware?

Abstract

Background
Rail engine drivers are known as loco pilots. Rail engines produce noise of around 100 dB. Loco pilots are continuously exposed to such loud noise as a result of their occupation. Hence, hearing ability is at jeopardy due to their occupation.
Objective
To assess noise induced hearing loss in Indian loco pilots by pure tone audiometry (PTA).
Methods
A cross sectional study which included 30 loco pilots and 50 control subjects. All were between 40-50 years. Hearing assessment was done by PTA after fulfilling inclusion and exclusion criteria. All the data was statically analyzed using SPSS software version 21. The level of significance p<0.05 was considered as significant.
Results
The mean age of loco pilots was 44.6±2.9 years (Mean±2SD) and of control was 42.8±2.1 years (Mean±2SD). The mean pure tone average in loco pilots was 31.5±5.5 dB in right ear and 30.5±6.8 dB in left ear. Thus, loco pilot group was having mild hearing impairment. On comparing both ears threshold in the groups, the difference was statically significant (p value< 0.01) and Pearson correlation was >0.9.
Conclusion
Our study shows mild hearing impairment in loco pilots. There is positive correlation between hearing loss and occupation. They are at more risk of hearing loss as compared to normal population attributable to their occupation. Safeguarding their hearing ability is a challenge.