Notifications of noise-induced hearing loss between 2007-2022: an analysis of healthcare actions in Minas Gerais

Abstract

Introduction: Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) is a condition of progressive decrease in hearing acuity resulting from exposure to high levels of sound pressure. Among the main risk factors for NIHL, noise in the occupational environment stands out. There is a lack of public action to promote hearing conservation at work, coupled with a scenario of irregularities and poor notification of this condition. Objectives: To analyze the quantitative evolution of NIHL notifications in the state of Minas Gerais from 2007 to 2022 and describe the socio-epidemiological profile related to notifications. Methods: Retrospective cross-sectional study of secondary databases via the Notifiable Diseases Information System with descriptive analysis of NIHL notifications and related socio-epidemiological variables between 2007 and 2022. Results: 1017 cases of NIHL were reported in the state. The year 2017 presented the highest number of records (13.3%), and 90.1% of notifications occurred with male individuals. The most affected age group was 50 to 64 years old (44.4%), and many cases were treated on an outpatient basis (79.4%). In 53.5% of notifications, there was no change adopted, and most cases did not adopt collective protection (56.0%) or individual protection (40.4%). Conclusion: There was significant incompleteness in filling out the notification forms, as well as inadequate implementation of preventive measures for noise in the workplace. The precarious adoption of individual and collective protection measures demonstrates non-compliance with hearing health promotion measures.