Measuring the Effect of Smoking on Hearing and Tinnitus Among the Adult Population in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Background: The prevalence of cigarette smoking is a significant public health challenge in Saudi Arabia, as it is a known risk factor for many health problems. Hearing problems are also a major concern, as they are invisible disabilities that can negatively impact an individual's perception, communication, and social interactions. Studies have identified various risk factors for hearing loss, including genetics, diseases, infection, exposure to noise, and demographic factors such as age and gender. Smoking has been found to be associated with hearing loss, tinnitus, and vertigo, but the results of studies investigating this association have been inconsistent. It is crucial to understand the impact of smoking on hearing problems and tinnitus in the Saudi Arabian population to protect individual and societal health. Aim: We aim to investigate whether smoking is related to tinnitus, hearing loss, or other hearing difficulties. Methods: A cross-sectional study was established from March to August 2022 among adults in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to determine whether smoking can affect hearing. Results: It has been observed that smokers experience hearing issues or trouble hearing more frequently than non-smokers. Additionally, as the number of cigarette smoking grows or as smoking persists for longer periods of time, there is a rise in hearing problems/hearing difficulty. In contrast, there is no conclusive evidence associating smoking and tinnitus. Conclusion: These results should encourage more investigation into the impact of demographic factors on hearing problems/hearing difficulty, or tinnitus.