Effects of occupational noise exposure on hearing loss: regulatory effect of Mediterranean diet

Abstract

Objective: To assess regulatory effect of Mediterranean diet for occupational noise exposure and hearing loss.

Methods: This cross-sectional study included 4,757 individuals. Weighted logistic regression model was adopted to explore the association of occupational noise exposure and Mediterranean diet with hearing loss, and regulatory effects of the Mediterranean diet for the relationship of occupational noise exposure and hearing loss.

Results: Occupational noise exposure was associated with an increased odds of hearing loss. Under low adherence to the Mediterranean diet, the occupational noise exposure group was related to increased odds of hearing loss. Under high adherence to the Mediterranean diet, no significant difference was observed between occupational noise exposure and hearing loss, and adjusted effect size was reduced accordingly.

Conclusion: Mediterranean diet may moderate this relationship of occupational noise exposure and hearing loss to some degree.