THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE MALAY VERSION OF DANGEROUS DECIBELS® PROGRAM IN IMPROVING SCHOOLCHILDREN KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE, AND BEHAVIOR SCORE TOWARDS NOISE

Abstract

Introduction: Due to the advancement of technology, leisure noise is more accessible to children hence increases the likelihood of them being exposed to the loud noise. Hearing loss prevention programs have been implemented to prevent noise-induced hearing loss among this group. Objective: The objective of this research was to evaluate the effectiveness of the Malay version of Dangerous Decibels® program in improving schoolchildren‘s knowledge, attitude and behaviour towards noise and hearing loss prevention.

Methods: This was an uncontrolled quasi-experimental study.  Baseline questionnaire was administered to standard four students (n=150) prior to their participation in the 60-minute Dangerous Decibels® classroom presentation. An immediate post questionnaire was again administered to the same group.

Results: The group exhibited a significant improvement (p<0.05) on the overall score of knowledge, behaviour and attitude at the immediate post evaluation when compared to the baseline score.

Conclusions: The study indicates the Malay version of Dangerous Decibels® program is effective in improving schoolchildren knowledge, attitude and behaviour towards noise and hearing loss prevention. This finding is hoped to aid the development of a structured hearing conservation education in Malaysia.