Randomized trial of four noise-induced hearing loss and tinnitus prevention interventions for children.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the effectiveness of four NIHL prevention interventions at improving knowledge, attitudes, and intended behaviors regarding sound exposure and appropriate use of hearing protective strategies in children.


METHODS
A randomized trial of the four interventions with a non-intervention comparison group. Questionnaires were completed prior to, immediately after, and three months after each intervention.


METHODS
Interventions included: (1) A classroom presentation by older-peer educators, (2) A classroom presentation by health professionals, (3). Exploration of a museum exhibition, and (4). Exploration of an internet-based virtual museum. A comparison group received no intervention.


METHODS
Fifty-three fourth grade classrooms (1120 students) participated in the study.


RESULTS
All interventions produced significant improvements but the number of improvements decreased over time. In terms of effectiveness, the classroom programs were more effective than the internet-based virtual exhibit, which was more effective than the visit to the museum exhibition. Self-reported exposures indicated that as many as 94.5% of participants were at risk for NIHL.


CONCLUSIONS
Interpersonal, interactive educational interventions such as the classroom program are more effective and have longer impact than self-directed learning experiences for NIHL and tinnitus prevention, however each may have an important role in promoting hearing health in elementary school students.
Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239, USA. martinw@ohsu.edu
William Hal
WH
Martin
Susan E
SE
Griest
Judith L
JL
Sobel
Linda C
LC
Howarth
D001294:Attitude to Health; D002648:Child; D003194:Computer-Assisted Instruction / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006266:Health Education / Q000379:methods*; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006317:Hearing Loss, Noise-Induced / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000523:psychology; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D008297:Male; D009144:Museums; D009622:Noise / Q000009:adverse effects*; D002666:Psychology, Child; D013334:Students / Q000523:psychology; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014012:Tinnitus / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000523:psychology