Tinnitus amongst students (in Malta)

Abstract

Tinnitus is a common otological condition defined by ringing, buzzing, roaring, or hissing sound in the absence of an external acoustic source. The aim of this study is to investigate perceptions and risk factors of tinnitus amongst students aged between 18 and 25. The objectives of this study are to explore (1)tinnitus-related factors and tinnitus-related impairments amongst students aged 18-25, (2) to compare between the outcomes across genders, and (3) to correlate the outcomes of the tinnitus impairment inventory with those of music/noise exposure. There is currently a lack of research in the local context regarding tinnitus in this population and the data obtained from this study will be able to provide further insight into tinnitus. This research study utilised convenience sampling as a quanititative mode of research. A total of 66 Participants were recruited to fill a questionnaire through social media and institutional registrars. Data was analysed using Shapiro-Wilk, independent samples t-test, Mann-Whitney, the Pearson’s Correlation and a cross tabulation test using a Chi-square. Results showed no significant difference between Noise exposure score (NES) and gender, smoking, and tinnitus. Results further indicated no significant difference in tinnitus impairment index score (TIIS) across gender but indicated a significant difference in TIIS across smoking and tinnitus. Using the Pearson’s correlation coefficient, TIIS and NES were found to be weakly positively correlated. Results showed no significant relationships between tinnitus and smoking, tinnitus and gender, but showed a significant difference between gender and smoking.