App-based Assessment of Hearing Impairment among Undergraduate Medical Students in Chengalpattu District, Southern India: A Cross-sectional Study

Introduction: Hearing loss is a significant global health issue, affecting over 430 million people worldwide, including 6.3% of the Indian population. Risk factors include excessive use of audio devices, high volume levels, and prolonged noise exposure. Early identification through accessible and cost-effective screening methods is essential, and mobile applications offer a promising approach for hearing assessment. Aim: To determine the prevalence of hearing loss among medical students and identify associated risk factors using the World Health Organisation (WHO)’s hearWHO app. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between May 2024 and October 2024 among 250 undergraduate students from two medical colleges in the Chengalpattu district, Tamil Nadu, India. A pretested semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect sociodemographic details and information on various risk factors associated with hearing impairment among students aged above 18 years. The hearWHO app was used to assess hearing loss through a digits-in-noise test, categorising scores as >75, 50-75, and <50. Participants with scores <50 were classified as having hearing loss. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 22. Statistical analysis included Chi-square tests, bivariate analysis, and multivariate logistic regression, with a significance threshold of p<0.05. Results: The prevalence of hearing loss among participants was 69 (27.6%). Significant associated factors were age >22 years (AOR=2.372, p=0.007), female gender (AOR=4.011, p<0.001), prolonged audio device usage >4 hours/day (AOR=4.216, p<0.001), listening at volumes >50% (AOR=2.866, p=0.006), and media usage during sleep (AOR=3.055, p=0.022). Symptoms such as ear discomfort or fullness and a history of ear infection were also associated with hearing loss. Conclusion: This study highlights a high prevalence of hearing loss among medical students, emphasising the need for early screening, education, and interventions. Addressing modifiable risk factors such as device usage habits and listening volume is crucial in mitigating hearing loss and promoting auditory health among young adults.