Risk-taking propensity as a risk factor for noise-induced hearing loss in the general population.

OBJECTIVES

To examine general risk propensity in relation to perceptions of noise, risk behaviour, and hearing loss in the general population.

DESIGN

Participants completed an online survey using the Amazon Mechanical Turk crowdsourcing platform.

STUDY SAMPLE

The sample comprised 1274 adults from the United States.

RESULTS

Higher general risk propensity was associated with an increased likelihood to engage in noise-risk behaviours. Lower general risk propensity was associated with increased knowledge of noise risks and an increased perception of noise as risky. The frequency of self-reported exposures to hazardous noise resulted in estimated annual noise doses exceeding standard hazard limits in 40% of the surveyed population.

CONCLUSIONS

Results revealed limited knowledge of the risks and associated health consequences of noise exposure in the general population Results of this study suggest a high rate of self-exposure to hazardous noise by the general population. Those with higher general risk propensity are more likely to engage in risky noise behaviour. Risky noise behaviour is associated with age, gender, race, ethnicity, and general risk propensity. Intervention programs to modify risky noise behaviour in the general population should focus on both increasing knowledge and establishing accurate perceptions of risk.