Nightclub Noise Danger in California

Newswise — SAN DIEGO, CA—A new study raises concerns about the noise level in nightclubs. Researchers in Southern California have found that the average continuous level of noise in some nightclubs is at least 91.2 dBA (A-weighted decibels). Club goers may suffer noise-induced hearing loss from just one night out on the town.

This latest research on hearing loss and other hot topics within the otolaryngology—head and neck surgery specialty will be presented at the 2016 Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO℠ of the American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery Foundation (AAO-HNSF) in San Diego, from Sunday, September 18, to Wednesday, September 21. Among the studies slated for presentation on Sunday and Monday are:

Noise Levels in NightclubsWhat are the average noise levels in a typical nightclub? Do they exceed the safe exposure levels set by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health? Researchers visit Southern California clubs to find out.Abstract: http://oto.sagepub.com/content/155/1_suppl/P100.full#sec-62 Efficacy of Commercially Available Ear Plugs in Reducing NoiseResearchers compare 11 pairs of commercially available ear plugs of different shapes, materials, and noise reduction ratings and assess attenuation.Abstract: http://oto.sagepub.com/content/155/1_suppl/P100.full#sec-37

Hearing Loss among Delinquent Youths in a Borstal InstitutionYouths in a home for delinquents had significant worse hearing, appearing to affect their academic performances. Is hearing a root cause of delinquency? Abstract: http://oto.sagepub.com/content/155/1_suppl/P46.full#sec-20

Upper Airway Stimulation for OSA: Subjective Outcomes after 48 MonthsUpper airway stimulation has been shown to be safe and effective in participants with moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in a large cohort study (STAR Trial) after 12 months of follow-up. What are patients reporting after 48 months of follow-up?Abstract: http://oto.sagepub.com/content/155/1_suppl/P156.full#sec-36

Dynamic Particles Re-positioning Maneuver: A New Way to Treat LC-BPPVVertigo (LC-BPPV) is dizzying. This study of 475 patients looks at a new maneuver to alleviate symptoms. Abstract: http://oto.sagepub.com/content/155/1_suppl/P100.full#sec-34

Neighborhood Quality Is Associated with Olfaction in Older US Adults
Researchers demonstrate that both indoor and outdoor neighborhood quality are associated with the ability to smell. Do neighborhood social conditions explain the chemosensory relationship? Abstract: http://oto.sagepub.com/content/155/1_suppl/P144.full#sec-26

A full searchable schedule for the Annual Meeting is online at www.entannualmeeting.org. Abstracts of all the research to be presented are available at http://oto.sagepub.com/content/155/1_suppl.toc.

Information for the Media
The AAO-HNSF offers press registration and interview facilitation for credentialed members of the news media and onsite workspace for those reporting from the meeting in San Diego. Additional information can be found online at http://www.entnet.org/content/press-information. Abstracts are available in advance of the meeting but in-depth content and quotes collected from author interviews are embargoed until the date and time of presentation at the Annual Meeting & OTO EXPOSM. Interested news media may request author interviews by contacting [email protected].

The Newsroom at the San Diego Convention Center (Room 17B) will be open Sunday, September 18, at 8:00 am to Wednesday, September 21, at 12:00 pm.

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About the AAO-HNS/F 
The American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, one of the oldest medical associations in the nation, represents about 12,000 physicians and allied health professionals who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the ears, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. The Academy serves its members by facilitating the advancement of the science and art of medicine related to otolaryngology and by representing the specialty in governmental and socioeconomic issues. The AAO-HNS Foundation works to advance the art, science, and ethical practice of otolaryngology-head and neck surgery through education, research, and lifelong learning. The organization's vision: "Empowering otolaryngologist-head and neck surgeons to deliver the best patient care."