Leisure Noise–Induced Tinnitus Prevalence and Risk Factors Among Children and Adolescents From Southern Brazil

Purpose: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and risk factors of leisure noise–induced tinnitus among school-aged children and adolescents in Southern Brazil. Method: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted with sixth-grade students from 32 municipal schools in Itajaí, Santa Catarina, Brazil. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire from the Dangerous Decibels program, assessing demographics, hearing habits, noise exposure, and related symptoms, such as hearing loss and tinnitus. Statistical analyses included descriptive and multivariate methods, with a significance level set at 5%. The final sample included 1,835 participants (997 boys, 838 girls; M age = 11.5 ± 0.8 years). Results: The overall prevalence of leisure noise–induced tinnitus was 72.15%. Multivariate analysis revealed significant associations between tinnitus and male gender (boys were 1.47 times more likely to report tinnitus than girls), older age, and a higher number of noise-related risk behaviors. However, no significant associations were found between tinnitus and socioeconomic risk factors or prior knowledge about noise exposure risks. Conclusions: These findings reveal the high prevalence of leisure noise–induced tinnitus in this population, with male gender, older age, and increased engagement in noise-related activities as key risk factors. These results emphasize the need for targeted prevention strategies and educational initiatives to protect the hearing health of children and adolescents.