Effects of concurrent noise and jet fuel exposure on hearing loss

Objectives: We sought to examine the effects of occupational exposure to jet fuel on hearing in military workers. Methods: Noise-exposed subjects, with without jet fuel exposure, underwent hearing tests. Work histories, recreation exposures, protective equipment, medical histories, alcohol, smoking, and dens graphics were collected by questionnaire. Jet fuel, solvent, and noise exposure data were collected from records. Fuel exposure estimates were less than 34% the OSHA Threshold Limit Values. Results: Subjects with 3 years of jet fuel exposure had a 70% increase in adjusted odds of hearing loss (OR = 1.7; 95% CI = 1.14-2.53) and the odds increased to 2.41 (95% CI = 1.04-5.57) for years of noise and fuel exposure. Conclusions: These,findings suggest that jet fuel has a toxic affect on the auditory system.