Noise Induced Hearing Loss in China: A Potentially Costly Public Health Lssue

Hearing loss and tinnitus are among the most common consequences of long term noise exposure and remain an under-addressed heath issue in most developing nations including China. The rapid industrialization and life style changes in China increase the concern over noise exposure and noise induced hearing loss (NIHL). Research on NIHL in China is limited. The current paper reviews studies published in English and Chinese language literatures regarding noise exposure and NIHL in China. Their implication on the Chinese population is discussed. The possible utility of a research model such as the Dangerous Decibels® as a means to increase understanding of the scope of NIHL among the Chinese population, to educate the general public in China (especially the young) about NIHL and its prevention, and to study effects of language and cultural factors on international information dissemination and behavioral interventions is proposed.