Abstract: Objective To analyze the hearing loss status among noise-exposed workers in the paper industry in Shenzhen and to explore the factors influencing hearing loss in this population, providing a theoretical basis for hearing protection occupational groups in the region. Methods Noise-exposed workers in the paper industry in Shenzhen who underwent occupational health examinations at Shenzhen Occupational Disease Prevention and Treatment Hospital from January to December 2022 were enrolled. Pure-tone audiometry, physical examinations, and questionnaires were conducted. Descriptive analysis was used. Factors influencing high-frequency hearing loss were identified by univariate and multivariate analyses. Results Among the 4 875 noise-exposed workers in the paper industry, 1 779 cases (36.49%) showed abnormal hearing thresholds; 623 cases (12.78%) had abnormal average speech-frequency hearing thresholds; 712 cases (14.61%) exhibited high-frequency hearing loss in both ears. Occupational noise-induced hearing loss was identified in 138 cases (2.83%). The abnormal detection rate of hearing thresholds at all frequencies and the average speech frequency was significantly higher in the left ear than in the right ear (all P<0.01). Additionally, the abnormal detection rate of high-frequency hearing thresholds in both ears increased with higher frequencies (χ² trend=119.470、119.660, P<0.01). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that male gender (OR=3.380), age (OR=1.659-4.778), hypertension (OR=6.801), noise exposure duration (OR=3.031-16.643), alcohol consumption (OR=2.309), work schedule (two-shift OR=2.983, three-shift OR=3.781), job position (air compressor station OR=1.461), exposure to industrial dust (OR=1.782) and high-temperature exposure (OR=1.567) were all independent risk factors for high-frequency hearing loss among noise-exposed workers (P<0.05). Conclusions The hearing loss status among noise-exposed workers in the paper industry is concerning. Multiple factors contribute to hearing loss in this occupational group, with particular attention needed for older male workers with longer noise exposure duration and those in high-noise positions. Strengthen health protection and alcohol control education, and standardize work mechanisms and environments are essential to mitigate hearing damage.

Key words: Paper industry, Noise-exposed workers, Hearing loss, Influencing factor