Stress and Hearing Problems in the Swedish Workforce
Author Information
Author(s): Hasson Dan, Theorell Töres, Wallen Martin Benka, Leineweber Constanze, Canlon Barbara
Primary Institution: Karolinska Institutet, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology
Hypothesis
Is there an association between stress and the prevalence of hearing problems in the Swedish working population?
Conclusion
The study found significant associations between hearing problems and various stressors, including occupational stress and poorer self-rated health.
Supporting Evidence
- 31% of the working population report either hearing complaints or tinnitus.
- Prevalence of hearing problems increased with age and was higher among men.
- Poor self-rated health was associated with a higher prevalence of hearing problems.
- Higher burnout scores correlated with increased prevalence of hearing problems.
Takeaway
If you're stressed, it might make your hearing worse. This study looked at how stress affects hearing problems in people who work.
Methodology
The study used self-completion questionnaires to assess hearing problems and various stressors among a sample of the Swedish working population.
Potential Biases
Self-reported measures may introduce bias in assessing hearing problems.
Limitations
The cross-sectional design limits causal conclusions, and the sample may not represent all occupational sectors.
Participant Demographics
The sample included 4,462 men (46%) and 5,294 women (54%), with a mean age of 48.4 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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