[The prevalence of tinnitus in children in Poland]

Abstract

Aim: The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of the tinnitus in 7- and 12-year-old children in Poland.

Material and methods: In this study 118,005, 7-year-old children and 23,339, 12-year-old children and their parents were asked about the presence of tinnitus by answering a questionnaire. 7-year-old children were asked by tester if they can hear noise in their ears or head.

Results: The results showed that according to parents questionnaire answers tinnitus was present in group of 15,244 (12.9%) 7-year-old children and in group of 3886 (16.6%) 12-year-old children. Between 7-year-old children directly asked for tinnitus 29.3% (34,517) mentioned of having it. Group of 8060 (34.5%) 12-year-old children confirmed in questionnaire hearing tinnitus. Differences in the presence of tinnitus between 7- and 12-year-old children have proven to be statistically significant.

Conclusions: Tinnitus is frequent complain among 7- and 12-year-old children. It is recommended to include to a questionnaire an inquiry about the presence of tinnitus during hearing screening tests performed recently more frequently at primary schools for early detection a diagnosis of tinnitus.