Development of a smartphone-based Turkish digits in noise test

Abstract

Background Pure-tone audiometry is the traditional gold standard for assessment and screening of hearing impairment, but it requires the use of calibrated devices and soundproof booth. Mobile apps can offer a good alternative to traditional methods in limited circumstances and in some emergency situations, especially when traditional methods are not available. The aim of the study was to develop an easily accessible mobile-based Turkish Digit in Noise Test screening test for the assessment of hearing.Methods The digits were read by a male speaker whose native language is Turkish. A mobile application was developed in accordance with the Android operating system. Twenty-five individuals with normal hearing, 25 individuals with bilateral mild sensorineural hearing loss, 25 with bilateral mild mixed hearing loss, and 25 with bilateral mild conductive hearing loss total of 100 participated in the study. All participants were between the ages of 18-60. The Turkish Digit in Noise Test mobile application was applied to the participants and the test scores were compared among the types of hearing loss.Results The Turkish Digit in Noise Test scores of participants with bilateral mild sensorineural hearing loss (19.4 +/- 5.39) and mixed hearing loss (22.96 +/- 4.52) were lower than those of participants with normal hearing (39.68 +/- 6.82) (p < .01). In addition, the results of participants with bilateral mild sensorineural hearing loss (19.4 +/- 5.39) and mixed hearing loss (22.96 +/- 4.52) were lower than those of participants with conductive hearing loss (36.88 +/- 6.31) (p < .01).Conclusion An easy and accessible Turkish Digit in Noise Test mobile application has been developed using which one can assess his/her hearing.