Bringing Otorhinolaryngological Service to Workplaces: Impact of World Hearing Day

Introduction: Individuals do not seek otorhinolaryngological service due to busy schedules at workplaces. Aim of this study was to identify common and asymptomatic otological conditions and profer solutions; to determine the awareness of otorhinolaryngological services in workplaces.

Methods: A 2-year prospective study done in 2017 and 2018 from 3rd to 31st March of these years, in Edo and Ondo states respectively. Study centers were Independence Television, Nigerian Television Authority; God is Good Motors, De Modern Motors, First Bank, Hope and Echos Hospitals in Benin City; Trauma center and Main auditorium UNIMED in Ondo state. Study was to mark the World Hearing Day. It commenced after obtaining clearance, permissions and informed consents. Total sampling technique was used. Health education was given. Self-administered questionnaires were completed. Otoscopy was done, each ear regarded as a separate entity. Wax and foreign bodies found were removed. Those with ear pathologies were referred to centers with otorhinolaryngological facility for further management. Data analyzed with SPSS, 20. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: 192 participants, representing 384 ears were examined. Age ranged from 16 to 68 years. Commonest otological condition was Otitis media with effusion in 36.7% and 33.3% in Edo and Ondo states respectively. Commonest asymptomatic condition was Cerumen auris. Awareness of ORL services was 60% and 85.1% in Edo and Ondo states respectively. Association between demographics and awareness was statistically significant with age, education and occupation.

Conclusion: Otological diseases abound in individuals at workplaces. Though there is high level of awareness, there is presence of asymptomatic otological conditions.