Purpose
: To study the association between the prevalence of tinnitus and mercury exposure and measure the influence of tinnitus on the quality of life.
Methods
: We conducted a cross-sectional study of men and women aged above 18 years residing in the Lake Puruzinho region, which is located on the left bank of the Rio Madeira, Humaita city, Amazonas state, Brazil. All subjects underwent anamnesis, otorhinolaryngologic evaluation, and an audiology test. Individuals who experienced tinnitus completed the translated Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI). We also examined the levels of total mercury in the hair of these individuals.
Results
: To analyze the results regarding the prevalence of tinnitus, the subjects were divided into two groups according to the presence or absence of tinnitus. Group 1 was composed of subjects with tinnitus and Group 2 was composed of subjects without tinnitus. Consequently, 40% of individuals had scores consistent with mild handicap according to the THI. The analysis of the association between tinnitus and levels of total mercury in hair samples showed that both groups had high levels of mercury. However, this finding was not significantly different between groups.
Conclusion
: Herein, 25% of the subjects complained of tinnitus and significant exposure to mercury; however, there was no association between the prevalence of tinnitus and high levels of mercury.
Tinnitus; Mercury; Hearing loss; Public health; Questionnaires
