Citation

Khan NB, Thaver S, Govender SM. J. Public Health Africa 2017; 8(2): e555.

Affiliation

Discipline of Audiology, School of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2017, PAGEPress)

DOI

10.4081/jphia.2017.555

PMID

29456822

PMCID

PMC5812304

Abstract

Self-ear cleaning is the insertion of objects into the ear canal to clean it, a widespread practice that has the potential to compromise its integrity as a natural, selfcleansing mechanism, and a risk factor for possible injuries. The practice is common among young adults and highest in university than any other graduates. This study aimed to determine the self-ear cleaning practices and associated risk of injury and related symptoms in undergraduate students at KwaZulu-Natal University. The descriptive survey utilized a self-administered questionnaire. Of the 206 participants that responded, 98% engaged in self-ear cleaning, with 75% indicating that it was beneficial. The commonest method (79.6%) being the use of cotton buds, with an associated injury rate of 2.4%. There was no statistically significant associations between those who used or did not use cotton buds and the symptoms experienced. The complications indicate that self-ear cleaning does pose a risk for injury, necessitating more community information and education.

Language: en

Keywords

Self-ear cleaning; benefit; cotton buds; ear injury; ear related symptoms; risk