Publication
Title
What do windsurfers and kitesurfers in Germany know about surfer's ear and how is it influenced by protective measures?
Author
Abstract
ObjectiveThis study investigated the frequency of ear canal protection use and looked at its influence on external auditory exostosis severity and knowledge about external auditory exostosis among windsurfers and kitesurfers on the German coast.MethodThis retrospective cross-sectional study interviewed 130 windsurfers and kitesurfers along the German coast on knowledge of external auditory exostosis, exposure time, use of neoprene hoods and earplugs, and otological complaints. Participants underwent bilateral video-otoscopic examination.ResultsKnowledge of external auditory exostosis was 'good' or 'excellent' in 78 of 130 (60 per cent) individuals and 'poor' or non-existent in 52 of 130 (40 per cent) individuals. Knowledge was positively correlated with hours of exposure, otological complaints and frequency of ear canal protection use. A significant negative influence of neoprene hood use on external auditory exostosis severity was shown.ConclusionThe positive effect of external auditory exostosis knowledge on the frequency of ear canal protection and the reduction of external auditory exostosis risk implies a need for health education on this topic.
Language
English
Source (journal)
The journal of laryngology and otology. - London, 1921, currens
Publication
Cambridge : Cambridge univ press , 2024
ISSN
0022-2151 [print]
1748-5460 [online]
DOI
10.1017/S0022215123000610
Volume/pages
138 :1 (2024) , p. 52-59
ISI
001080165900001
Pubmed ID
37016896
Full text (Publisher's DOI)
Full text (open access)
UAntwerpen
Publication type
Subject
Affiliation
Publications with a UAntwerp address
External links
Web of Science
Record
Identifier
Creation 30.10.2023
Last edited 06.01.2024
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