Design and evaluation of noise health effects awareness instrument: A pilot test in young adults in Mexico

Noise awareness remains a challenge in mid and low-income countries. Although policy improvement yields safer exposure, mitigation campaigns and individual reflection are opportunity areas that need to be addressed to correct application of policies. Very few attempts were found to measure population awareness, considering current auditory behaviors. The purpose of this study is to design a tool to measure and generate awareness in young individuals (18-26 years old) about the health effects caused by noise (audiological, neurological, cardiovascular, and psychosocial). The tool consists of an 18-question awareness questionnaire that addresses general knowledge of noise, perceived exposure effects and assesses the impact on simulated situations of hearing protection, hearing loss and tinnitus. According to pilot test findings, young individuals that have a higher general knowledge and higher perceived exposure effects show better response towards noise protection usage. For both informed and uninformed individuals, the awareness ratio was increased after instrument application. Preventive measures including hearing protection and individual awareness should be implemented to enhance policy improvements, otherwise, the population's well-being will continue to be impacted by the short and long-term effects of noise exposure. This pilot study may address directions on further research and robust tools measurements, validations and applications.