Table of Contents

Component Description

The NHANES 2009-2010 Audiometry Examination Component consists of four parts:

1) A pre-exam audiometric questionnaire: This is a series of questions to identify conditions that would affect how audiometric testing is conducted, or how results are interpreted. Questions include whether the subject has ear tubes, a current cold or ear problem, or recent loud noise exposure. Note that more extensive data relating to a study subject’s hearing status including information regarding occupational noise exposure are contained in the audiometry questionnaire (AUQ) section of the NHANES Sample Person Interview Questionnaire.

2) A brief otoscopic screening (physical) exam of the ear canals and eardrums: This was performed by the Health Technician to identify abnormalities which would require alternate audiometric procedures or influence interpretation of test results, and to identify conditions which might require medical referral. The exam screened for excessive or impacted ear cerumen (wax), physical abnormalities, or collapsing external ear canals.

3) Tympanometry: This is an objective assessment of middle ear function by testing the mobility of the eardrum in response to changes in air pressure within the ear canal. It is used to identify middle ear pathologies that might contribute to hearing loss. Tympanometric data, included in the AUX_F Audiometry data file consists of quantitative measurement variables for middle ear volume, pressure, compliance, and gradient, and tympanogram data quality ratings. The raw data for the examinee's tympanometric curves is released separately (AUXTYM_F).

4) Pure tone air conduction audiometry: This measures hearing sensitivity by presenting pure tone signals to the ear through earphones and by varying the intensity of the signals until a subject’s hearing threshold at that frequency is determined. Testing is performed at frequencies across the range of human hearing.

 

Eligible Sample

The NHANES 2009-2010 Audiometry Component tested full samples of U.S. adolescents ages 12–19 years of age and U.S. adults ages 70+ years. Subjects using hearing aids who were not able to remove them for testing and subjects who had sufficient ear pain at the time of the exam that they could not tolerate headphones were excluded from the Audiometry Component. There were no other precluding conditions for any part of the audiologic exam.

 

Protocol and Procedure

All Audiometry Component sections were performed by a trained examiner on examinees in a dedicated, sound-isolating room in the mobile examination center (MEC). Hearing threshold testing was conducted on both ears of examinees at seven frequencies (500, 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000, 6000, and 8000 Hz). Testing was conducted according to a modified Hughson Westlake procedure using the automated testing mode of the audiometer, except as indicated below. The effective range for automated audiometric testing was from –10 to 100 decibels (dB) at 500 to 6000 Hz and –10 to 90 dB at 8000 Hz. Thresholds could be tested through 120 dB (110 dB at 8000 Hz) using manual audiometric mode. Observed values, therefore, varied between –10 and 120 dB. If an examinee did not respond to the signal tone at any level for one or more frequencies because of deafness or severe hearing loss, a code value of 666 was entered. Manual testing was also conducted when the examinee could not operate the response switch or responded too slowly for the audiometer to accurately record the response.

In some instances, if a pure tone audiometric signal is sufficiently loud, it can "cross over" and be heard by the opposite ear via bone conduction. When this occurs, it is difficult to determine if the threshold obtained is truly the threshold of the test ear, or an artifact of the non-test ear (which may have better hearing). For the current study, a crossover retesting protocol was performed whenever the observed threshold at any given frequency was poorer in one ear than the other by 25 dB at 500 and 1000 Hz; or 40 dB at any higher frequency. Retesting was accomplished using insert earphones, which are smaller and have less direct contact with the bones of the head. Thus, a much louder stimulus is required before crossover occurs. Due to the complexity of the procedure, masking was not employed in this survey.

 

Quality Assurance & Quality Control

Instrumentation for the Audiometry Component included an Interacoustics Model AD226 audiometer with standard TDH-39 headphones and Etymotic EarTone 3A insert earphones. Tympanometry was performed using a Micro Audiometrics Earscan Acoustic Impedance Tympanometer. Audiometric calibration and background noise levels were checked using a Quest Model 1800 Precision Integrating Sound Level Meter and Model OB-300 1/3-1/1 octave filter set. Daily monitoring of calibration and ambient noise levels was accomplished with a Quest Model BA-201-25 Bioacoustic Simulator and Octave Band Monitor. All data from each of the four sections of the Audiometry Component were entered directly into the computerized NHANES survey database system. Data from the Interacoustics Model AD226 audiometer and Micro Audiometrics Earscan Acoustic Impedance tympanometer were captured electronically and uploaded into the survey information system automatically.

The audiometers used in this survey met the specifications of ANSI S3.6-1996 for Type 3 audiometers. An acoustic calibration check to measure the output and linearity of the audiometer (through both standard and insert earphones) was conducted before the examinations began at each MEC site using a Quest Model 1800 sound level meter kit; a complete acoustic calibration check was also conducted at the end of each stand. Throughout the stand, output of the audiometer was monitored daily using a Quest Model BA-201-25 bioacoustic simulator, and a daily listening check (tone quality, attenuator accuracy, headphone cords, crossover, etc.) was also performed. Standard and insert earphones were checked on an alternating basis. If a unit did not meet specifications, it was sent for servicing, and a fully calibrated backup unit was used for examinations. Manufacturer’s calibration (traceable to the National Institute of Standards and Technology [NIST]) was performed annually on each audiometer.

An environmental noise survey was also conducted at the beginning of each stand using the Quest 1800 sound level meter. The survey was repeated weekly throughout the stand. The audiometric test room was required to meet or exceed the specifications of ANSI S3.1-1991 for ears covered testing. A Quest Model BA-201-25 Bioacoustic Simulator and Octave Band Monitor was used to continuously measure the background noise levels in the audiometric test room during audiometric examinations. Pure tone audiometric testing was not performed if ambient noise levels in the test booth exceeded maximum permissible levels. A comprehensive calibration (traceable to NIST) of the sound level meter and bioacoustic simulator were performed annually by the manufacturer. The physical volume calibration of the Micro Audiometric Earscan tympanometer was checked at the start and end of each stand and daily throughout the stand. Air pressure was calibrated automatically by the unit each time it was turned on. The tympanometer also received an exhaustive NIST-traceable calibration check annually.

As an additional quality measure, all audiograms, whether conducted in automated or manual mode, tested the 1000 Hz frequency twice in each ear as a measure of the reliability of the subject’s responses. Pure tone audiograms were not accepted if there was more than a 10 dB difference between them. For further details regarding any of these procedures, analysts should consult the NHANES Audiometry/Tympanometry Procedures Manual.

The MEC Health Technicians who performed the Audiometry Examination Component of NHANES were professionally trained by a certified audiologist from the National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health (NIOSH). NIOSH also monitored the performance of each health technician on a regular basis. Field visits to each MEC were conducted by the NIOSH Audiologist at least three times per year. Additionally, NCHS Project Officers visited the MECs approximately twice per year to observe the audiometry examinations and verify that standard testing procedures were being followed. NIOSH consultants provided the MEC health technicians with annual retraining and protocol updates.

The quantitative tympanometric measurements reported in this data file represent the single best of each of the two curves obtained during testing. Subjective quality ratings for these tympanograms are the variables AUAREQC and AUALEQC. These represent a qualitative assessment of tympanogram quality by the consulting Audiologist. Please note, however, that this rating process scored tympanograms on the basis of quality, not normality. Abnormal tympanograms were classified as "good" if they were consistent with a subject’s audiometric data, including otoscopy, numeric tympanometry readings, and audiogram.

 

Data Processing and Editing

All data were captured into the NHANES computerized database system, with audiometric and tympanometric data automatically uploaded. On a continuous basis, a consulting Audiologist performed a clinical review of all data for each subject as it was received, checking for quality and consistency. In addition, a computerized data editing program was developed to check for logical inconsistencies in the data and technician errors, and to cross-check other issues affecting data quality (consistency in identifying potential instances where crossover effects might have occurred, assurance of randomization of the initial test ear, etc.). Back-end edits of the data were performed as needed when errors were detected.

 

Analytic Notes

This examination was administered to a full sample of participants in the MEC. Therefore, the NHANES MEC examination weights should be used for data analysis. For more information on the use of sample weights in current NHANES data analysis and for combining weighted data across multiple NHANES survey years please refer to the NHANES Analytic Guidelines https://wwwn.cdc.gov/nchs/nhanes/analyticguidelines.aspx) and the on-line NHANES Tutorial (https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/tutorials/) for further details on the use of sample weights and other analytic issues.

NHANES Audiometry examination data has been previously published for older U.S. adults during the 2005-06 survey cycle (Dillon et al., 2010; Lin et al., 2011) and for adolescents 12-19 years of age in the NHANES 2005-06 and 2007-08 survey cycles (Flamme et al., 2011; Henderson et al., 2010; Shargorodsky et al., 2010).

Audiologic data analysis is a complex procedure and requires a thorough knowledge of the specialty content area for valid results to be obtained. If an analyst does not have professional experience in this area, it is recommended that audiologic consultation be obtained to help formulate and review the results of the analysis. Data analysts should be especially aware of the fact that the number "666" in all primary audiometric frequency data fields (AUXU1K1R through AUXU8KL) as well as in all repeat test frequencies (AUXR1K1R through AUXR8KL) is a qualitative code for non-response at a particular frequency, and does not represent actual measured decibel hearing threshold values. These non response values should be appropriately edited prior to any numerical data analysis.

 

References

Codebook and Frequencies

SEQN - Respondent sequence number

Variable Name:
SEQN
SAS Label:
Respondent sequence number
English Text:
Respondent sequence number.
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS

AUAEXSTS - Status of an Audio Exam

Variable Name:
AUAEXSTS
SAS Label:
Status of an Audio Exam
English Text:
Status of an Audiometry Exam
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Complete 2062 2062
2 Partial 170 2232
3 Not done 136 2368
. Missing 0 2368

AUAEXCMT - Comment code for an Audio Exam

Variable Name:
AUAEXCMT
SAS Label:
Comment code for an Audio Exam
English Text:
Comment code for an Audio Exam
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
2 SP refusal 18 18
3 No time 1 19
4 Physical limitation 81 100
5 Communication problem 16 116
6 Equipment failure 3 119
56 Came late/left early 115 234
72 Error (technician/software/supply) 14 248
99 Other, specify 57 305
122 Language barrier 1 306
. Missing 2062 2368

AUQ010 - Have Ear Tube, Right or Left Ear?

Variable Name:
AUQ010
SAS Label:
Have Ear Tube, Right or Left Ear?
English Text:
Do you now have a tube in your right or left ear? (If yes, indicate affected ear(s))
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes, right ear 8 8
2 Yes, left ear 2 10
3 Yes, both ears 8 18
4 No 2197 2215
7 Refused 3 2218
9 Don't know 14 2232
. Missing 136 2368

AUQ020 - Had Cold, Sinus or Earache Last 24 Hrs?

Variable Name:
AUQ020
SAS Label:
Had Cold, Sinus or Earache Last 24 Hrs?
English Text:
Have you had a cold, sinus problem, or earache in the last 24 hours?
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes 298 298
2 No 1931 2229
7 Refused 0 2229
9 Don't know 3 2232
. Missing 136 2368

AUQ020A - Had Cold Last 24 Hrs?

Variable Name:
AUQ020A
SAS Label:
Had Cold Last 24 Hrs?
English Text:
Have you had a cold in the last 24 hours?
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes (checkbox checked) 127 127
2 No (checkbox unchecked) 167 294
9 Don't know 3 297
. Missing 2071 2368

AUQ020B - Had Sinus Problem Last 24 Hours?

Variable Name:
AUQ020B
SAS Label:
Had Sinus Problem Last 24 Hours?
English Text:
Have you had a sinus problem in the last 24 hours
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes (checkbox checked) 166 166
2 No (checkbox unchecked) 128 294
9 Don't know 3 297
. Missing 2071 2368

AUQ020C - Earache Last 24 Hours, Right?

Variable Name:
AUQ020C
SAS Label:
Earache Last 24 Hours, Right?
English Text:
Have you had an earache in the right ear in the last 24 hours?
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes (checkbox checked) 7 7
2 No (checkbox unchecked) 287 294
9 Don't know 3 297
. Missing 2071 2368

AUQ020D - Earache Last 24 Hours, Left?

Variable Name:
AUQ020D
SAS Label:
Earache Last 24 Hours, Left?
English Text:
Have you had an earache in left ear in the last 24 hours?
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes (checkbox checked) 7 7
2 No (checkbox unchecked) 287 294
9 Don't know 3 297
. Missing 2071 2368

AUQ020E - Earache Last 24 Hours, Both?

Variable Name:
AUQ020E
SAS Label:
Earache Last 24 Hours, Both?
English Text:
Have you had an earache in both ears in the last 24 hours?
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes (checkbox checked) 6 6
2 No (checkbox unchecked) 288 294
9 Don't know 3 297
. Missing 2071 2368

AUQ030 - Exposed Loud Noise/Music Last 24 Hrs?

Variable Name:
AUQ030
SAS Label:
Exposed Loud Noise/Music Last 24 Hrs?
English Text:
Have you been exposed to loud noise or listened to music with headphones in the past 24 hours?
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes 535 535
2 No 1688 2223
7 Refused 3 2226
9 Don't know 3 2229
. Missing 139 2368

AUQ040 - Hours Since Noise/Music Ended?

Variable Name:
AUQ040
SAS Label:
Hours Since Noise/Music Ended?
English Text:
How many hours ago did the noise or music end?
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Hard Edits:
1 to 24
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 to 24 Range of Values 531 531
77 SP refused 0 531
99 Don't know 4 535
. Missing 1833 2368

AUQ050 - Self Reported Better Ear

Variable Name:
AUQ050
SAS Label:
Self Reported Better Ear
English Text:
Do you hear better in one ear than the other?
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes, right ear 244 244
2 Yes, left ear 205 449
7 Refused 2 451
9 No / don't know 1778 2229
. Missing 139 2368

AUXOTSPL - Normal Otoscopy, Left Ear?

Variable Name:
AUXOTSPL
SAS Label:
Normal Otoscopy, Left Ear?
English Text:
Normal: Left Ear Otoscopy
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes (checkbox checked) 1774 1774
2 No (checkbox unchecked) 455 2229
. Missing 139 2368

AUXLOEXC - Excessive Cerumen, Left Ear

Variable Name:
AUXLOEXC
SAS Label:
Excessive Cerumen, Left Ear
English Text:
Excessive Cerumen, Left Ear
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes (checkbox checked) 370 370
2 No (checkbox unchecked) 1859 2229
. Missing 139 2368

AUXLOIMC - Impacted Cerumen, Left Ear

Variable Name:
AUXLOIMC
SAS Label:
Impacted Cerumen, Left Ear
English Text:
Impacted Cerumen, Left Ear
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes (checkbox checked) 48 48
2 No (checkbox unchecked) 2181 2229
. Missing 139 2368

AUXLOCOL - Collapsing Ear Canals, Left Ear

Variable Name:
AUXLOCOL
SAS Label:
Collapsing Ear Canals, Left Ear
English Text:
Collapsing Ear Canal, Left Ear
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes (checkbox checked) 36 36
2 No (checkbox unchecked) 2193 2229
. Missing 139 2368

AUXLOABN - Other Exam Abnormality, Left Ear?

Variable Name:
AUXLOABN
SAS Label:
Other Exam Abnormality, Left Ear?
English Text:
Other Exam Abnormality, Left Ear
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes (checkbox checked) 35 35
2 No (checkbox unchecked) 2194 2229
. Missing 139 2368

AUDLOABC - Comment,Other Exam Abnormality Left Ear

Variable Name:
AUDLOABC
SAS Label:
Comment,Other Exam Abnormality Left Ear
English Text:
Other Exam Abnormality, Left, Comment
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Possible Perforated Eardrum 2 2
2 Perforated Eardrum 3 5
3 Possible Infection 0 5
4 TM Scarring or Deformity 0 5
. Missing 2363 2368

AUXROTSP - Normal Otoscopy, Right Ear?

Variable Name:
AUXROTSP
SAS Label:
Normal Otoscopy, Right Ear?
English Text:
Normal: Right Ear Otoscopy
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes (checkbox checked) 1729 1729
2 No (checkbox unchecked) 500 2229
. Missing 139 2368

AUXROEXC - Excessive Cerumen, Right Ear

Variable Name:
AUXROEXC
SAS Label:
Excessive Cerumen, Right Ear
English Text:
Excessive Cerumen, Right Ear
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes (checkbox checked) 390 390
2 No (checkbox unchecked) 1839 2229
. Missing 139 2368

AUXROIMC - Impacted Cerumen, Right Ear

Variable Name:
AUXROIMC
SAS Label:
Impacted Cerumen, Right Ear
English Text:
Impacted Cerumen, Right Ear
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes (checkbox checked) 73 73
2 No (checkbox unchecked) 2156 2229
. Missing 139 2368

AUXROCOL - Collapsing Ear Canals, Right Ear

Variable Name:
AUXROCOL
SAS Label:
Collapsing Ear Canals, Right Ear
English Text:
Collapsing Ear Canal, Right Ear
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes (checkbox checked) 32 32
2 No (checkbox unchecked) 2197 2229
. Missing 139 2368

AUXROABN - Other Exam Abnormality, Right Ear?

Variable Name:
AUXROABN
SAS Label:
Other Exam Abnormality, Right Ear?
English Text:
Other Exam Abnormality, Right Ear
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes (checkbox checked) 35 35
2 No (checkbox unchecked) 2194 2229
. Missing 139 2368

AUDROABC - Comment,Other Exam Abnormality Right Ear

Variable Name:
AUDROABC
SAS Label:
Comment,Other Exam Abnormality Right Ear
English Text:
Other Exam Abnormality, Right, Comment
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Possible Perforated Eardrum 5 5
2 Perforated Eardrum 7 12
3 Possible Infection 0 12
4 TM Scarring or Deformity 0 12
. Missing 2356 2368

AUXTMEPR - Middle Ear Pressure-Tymp, Rt Ear in daPa

Variable Name:
AUXTMEPR
SAS Label:
Middle Ear Pressure-Tymp, Rt Ear in daPa
English Text:
Middle ear pressure (tympanometry), right ear, in daPa (dekaPascals)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Hard Edits:
-400.0000 to 200.0000
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-306 to 168 Range of Values 1990 1990
555 Compliance <= 0.2 171 2161
777 Refused 1 2162
888 Could not obtain 57 2219
. Missing 149 2368

AUXTPVR - Physical Volume-Tymp, Right Ear in cc

Variable Name:
AUXTPVR
SAS Label:
Physical Volume-Tymp, Right Ear in cc
English Text:
Physical volume (tympanometry), right ear, in cc
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Hard Edits:
0.0 to 7.0
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
0.2 to 6.2 Range of Values 2146 2146
777 Refused 1 2147
888 Could not obtain 57 2204
. Missing 164 2368

AUXTWIDR - Tympanometric width, right ear

Variable Name:
AUXTWIDR
SAS Label:
Tympanometric width, right ear
English Text:
Tympanometric width, right ear
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Hard Edits:
0.0000 to 500.0000
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
0 to 270 Range of Values 1990 1990
555 Compliance <= 0.2 171 2161
777 Refused 1 2162
888 Could not obtain 57 2219
. Missing 149 2368

AUXTCOMR - Compliance (tympanometry), right ear

Variable Name:
AUXTCOMR
SAS Label:
Compliance (tympanometry), right ear
English Text:
Compliance (tympanometry), right ear
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Hard Edits:
0.0000 to 8.0000
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
0 to 5.1 Range of Values 2161 2161
777 Refused 1 2162
888 Could not obtain 57 2219
. Missing 149 2368

AUXTMEPL - Middle Ear Pressure, Tymp, Left in daPa

Variable Name:
AUXTMEPL
SAS Label:
Middle Ear Pressure, Tymp, Left in daPa
English Text:
Middle ear pressure (tympanometry), left ear, in daPa (dekaPascals)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Hard Edits:
-400.0000 to 200.0000
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-294 to 120 Range of Values 1950 1950
555 Compliance <= 0.2 208 2158
777 Refused 2 2160
888 Could not obtain 62 2222
. Missing 146 2368

AUXTPVL - Physical Volume-Tymp, Left ear in cc

Variable Name:
AUXTPVL
SAS Label:
Physical Volume-Tymp, Left ear in cc
English Text:
Physical volume (tympanometry), left ear, in cc
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Hard Edits:
0.0 to 7.0
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
0.2 to 5.7 Range of Values 2127 2127
777 Refused 2 2129
888 Could not obtain 62 2191
. Missing 177 2368

AUXTWIDL - Tympanometric width, left ear

Variable Name:
AUXTWIDL
SAS Label:
Tympanometric width, left ear
English Text:
Tympanometric width, left ear
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Hard Edits:
0.0000 to 500.0000
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
0 to 282 Range of Values 1950 1950
555 Compliance <= 0.2 208 2158
777 Refused 2 2160
888 Could not obtain 62 2222
. Missing 146 2368

AUXTCOML - Compliance (tympanometry), left ear

Variable Name:
AUXTCOML
SAS Label:
Compliance (tympanometry), left ear
English Text:
Compliance (tympanometry), left ear
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Hard Edits:
0.0000 to 8.0000
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
0 to 4.2 Range of Values 2158 2158
777 Refused 2 2160
888 Could not obtain 62 2222
. Missing 146 2368

AUAEAR - Which ear tested first?

Variable Name:
AUAEAR
SAS Label:
Which ear tested first?
English Text:
Which ear tested first?
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Right 1124 1124
2 Left 1084 2208
. Missing 160 2368

AUAMODE - Audio Test Mode-Manual/Automatic/Mixed

Variable Name:
AUAMODE
SAS Label:
Audio Test Mode-Manual/Automatic/Mixed
English Text:
Mode of Audiometric Test (Manual/Automatic/Mixed)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Manual 36 36
2 Automatic 1891 1927
3 Mixed 277 2204
. Missing 164 2368

AUAFMANL - Frequency, Switch to Manual Mode, Left

Variable Name:
AUAFMANL
SAS Label:
Frequency, Switch to Manual Mode, Left
English Text:
Frequency at Which Switched From Auto to Manual Audio Testing (Left)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 None 2059 2059
2 500 Hz 0 2059
3 1000 Hz 11 2070
4 2000 Hz 9 2079
5 3000 Hz 5 2084
6 4000 Hz 8 2092
7 6000 Hz 21 2113
8 8000 Hz 91 2204
. Missing 164 2368

AUAFMANR - Frequency, Switch to Manual Mode, Right

Variable Name:
AUAFMANR
SAS Label:
Frequency, Switch to Manual Mode, Right
English Text:
Frequency at Which Switched From Auto to Manual Audio Testing (Right)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 None 2054 2054
2 500 Hz 0 2054
3 1000 Hz 17 2071
4 2000 Hz 6 2077
5 3000 Hz 4 2081
6 4000 Hz 5 2086
7 6000 Hz 22 2108
8 8000 Hz 96 2204
. Missing 164 2368

AUXU1K1R - Right threshold @ 1000Hz (db)

Variable Name:
AUXU1K1R
SAS Label:
Right threshold @ 1000Hz (db)
English Text:
Right threshold @ 1000Hz in decibels (Hearing Level)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 120 Range of Values 2183 2183
666 No response 4 2187
888 Could not obtain 15 2202
. Missing 166 2368

AUXU500R - Right threshold @ 500Hz (db)

Variable Name:
AUXU500R
SAS Label:
Right threshold @ 500Hz (db)
English Text:
Right threshold @ 500Hz in decibels (Hearing Level)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 115 Range of Values 2183 2183
666 No response 2 2185
888 Could not obtain 15 2200
. Missing 168 2368

AUXU1K2R - Right Threshold @ 1000Hz-2nd Read (db)

Variable Name:
AUXU1K2R
SAS Label:
Right Threshold @ 1000Hz-2nd Read (db)
English Text:
Right threshold @ 1000Hz (second reading) in decibels (Hearing Level)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 120 Range of Values 2183 2183
666 No response 4 2187
888 Could not obtain 15 2202
. Missing 166 2368

AUXU2KR - Right threshold @ 2000Hz (db)

Variable Name:
AUXU2KR
SAS Label:
Right threshold @ 2000Hz (db)
English Text:
Right threshold @ 2000Hz in decibels (Hearing Level)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 115 Range of Values 2182 2182
666 No response 5 2187
888 Could not obtain 15 2202
. Missing 166 2368

AUXU3KR - Right threshold @ 3000Hz (db)

Variable Name:
AUXU3KR
SAS Label:
Right threshold @ 3000Hz (db)
English Text:
Right threshold @ 3000Hz in decibels (Hearing Levels)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 120 Range of Values 2180 2180
666 No response 7 2187
888 Could not obtain 15 2202
. Missing 166 2368

AUXU4KR - Right threshold @ 4000Hz (db)

Variable Name:
AUXU4KR
SAS Label:
Right threshold @ 4000Hz (db)
English Text:
Right threshold @ 4000Hz in decibels (Hearing Level)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 120 Range of Values 2179 2179
666 No response 8 2187
888 Could not obtain 15 2202
. Missing 166 2368

AUXU6KR - Right threshold @ 6000Hz (db)

Variable Name:
AUXU6KR
SAS Label:
Right threshold @ 6000Hz (db)
English Text:
Right threshold @ 6000Hz in decibels (Hearing Level)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 120 Range of Values 2177 2177
666 No response 9 2186
888 Could not obtain 16 2202
. Missing 166 2368

AUXU8KR - Right threshold @ 8000Hz (db)

Variable Name:
AUXU8KR
SAS Label:
Right threshold @ 8000Hz (db)
English Text:
Right threshold @ 8000Hz in decibels (Hearing Level)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 110 Range of Values 2153 2153
666 No response 33 2186
888 Could not obtain 16 2202
. Missing 166 2368

AUXU1K1L - Left threshold @ 1000Hz (db)

Variable Name:
AUXU1K1L
SAS Label:
Left threshold @ 1000Hz (db)
English Text:
Left threshold @ 1000Hz in decibels (Hearing Level)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 100 Range of Values 2187 2187
666 No response 1 2188
888 Could not obtain 14 2202
. Missing 166 2368

AUXU500L - Left threshold @ 500Hz (db)

Variable Name:
AUXU500L
SAS Label:
Left threshold @ 500Hz (db)
English Text:
Left threshold @ 500Hz in decibels (Hearing Level)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 105 Range of Values 2183 2183
666 No response 1 2184
888 Could not obtain 16 2200
. Missing 168 2368

AUXU1K2L - Left threshold @ 1000Hz-2nd Read (db)

Variable Name:
AUXU1K2L
SAS Label:
Left threshold @ 1000Hz-2nd Read (db)
English Text:
Left threshold @ 1000Hz (second reading) in decibels (Hearing Level)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 100 Range of Values 2184 2184
666 No response 1 2185
888 Could not obtain 16 2201
. Missing 167 2368

AUXU2KL - Left threshold @ 2000Hz (db)

Variable Name:
AUXU2KL
SAS Label:
Left threshold @ 2000Hz (db)
English Text:
Left threshold @ 2000Hz in decibels (Hearing Level)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 120 Range of Values 2185 2185
666 No response 1 2186
888 Could not obtain 16 2202
. Missing 166 2368

AUXU3KL - Left threshold @ 3000Hz (db)

Variable Name:
AUXU3KL
SAS Label:
Left threshold @ 3000Hz (db)
English Text:
Left threshold @ 3000Hz in decibels (Hearing Level)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 120 Range of Values 2180 2180
666 No response 6 2186
888 Could not obtain 16 2202
. Missing 166 2368

AUXU4KL - Left threshold @ 4000Hz (db)

Variable Name:
AUXU4KL
SAS Label:
Left threshold @ 4000Hz (db)
English Text:
Left threshold @ 4000Hz in decibels (Hearing Level)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 120 Range of Values 2178 2178
666 No response 6 2184
888 Could not obtain 18 2202
. Missing 166 2368

AUXU6KL - Left threshold @ 6000Hz (db)

Variable Name:
AUXU6KL
SAS Label:
Left threshold @ 6000Hz (db)
English Text:
Left threshold @ 6000Hz in decibels (Hearing Level)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 120 Range of Values 2166 2166
666 No response 19 2185
888 Could not obtain 17 2202
. Missing 166 2368

AUXU8KL - Left threshold @ 8000Hz (db)

Variable Name:
AUXU8KL
SAS Label:
Left threshold @ 8000Hz (db)
English Text:
Left threshold @ 8000Hz in decibels (Hearing Level)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 110 Range of Values 2138 2138
666 No response 47 2185
888 Could not obtain 17 2202
. Missing 166 2368

AUXR1K1R - Right retest threshold @ 1000Hz (db)

Variable Name:
AUXR1K1R
SAS Label:
Right retest threshold @ 1000Hz (db)
English Text:
Right retest threshold @ 1000Hz in decibels (Hearing Level)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
5 to 90 Range of Values 15 15
666 No response 0 15
888 Could not obtain 0 15
. Missing 2353 2368

AUXR5CR - Right retest threshold @ 500Hz (db)

Variable Name:
AUXR5CR
SAS Label:
Right retest threshold @ 500Hz (db)
English Text:
Right retest threshold @ 500Hz in decibels (Hearing Level)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
10 to 110 Range of Values 12 12
666 No response 0 12
888 Could not obtain 0 12
. Missing 2356 2368

AUXR1K2R - Right Retest Threshold 1000Hz-2nd Read

Variable Name:
AUXR1K2R
SAS Label:
Right Retest Threshold 1000Hz-2nd Read
English Text:
Right retest threshold @ 1000Hz, (second reading) in decibels (Hearing Level)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
25 to 35 Range of Values 2 2
666 No response 0 2
888 Could not obtain 0 2
. Missing 2366 2368

AUXR2KR - Right retest threshold @ 2000Hz (db)

Variable Name:
AUXR2KR
SAS Label:
Right retest threshold @ 2000Hz (db)
English Text:
Right retest threshold @ 2000Hz in decibels (Hearing Level)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
90 90 1 1
666 No response 0 1
888 Could not obtain 0 1
. Missing 2367 2368

AUXR3KR - Right retest threshold @ 3000Hz (db)

Variable Name:
AUXR3KR
SAS Label:
Right retest threshold @ 3000Hz (db)
English Text:
Right retest threshold @ 3000Hz in decibels (Hearing Level)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
60 to 90 Range of Values 4 4
666 No response 0 4
888 Could not obtain 0 4
. Missing 2364 2368

AUXR4KR - Right retest threshold @ 4000Hz (db)

Variable Name:
AUXR4KR
SAS Label:
Right retest threshold @ 4000Hz (db)
English Text:
Right retest threshold @ 4000Hz in decibels (Hearing Level)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
80 to 100 Range of Values 4 4
666 No response 0 4
888 Could not obtain 0 4
. Missing 2364 2368

AUXR6KR - Right retest threshold @ 6000Hz (db)

Variable Name:
AUXR6KR
SAS Label:
Right retest threshold @ 6000Hz (db)
English Text:
Right retest threshold @ 6000Hz in decibels (Hearing Level)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
45 to 105 Range of Values 7 7
666 No response 0 7
888 Could not obtain 0 7
. Missing 2361 2368

AUXR8KR - Right retest threshold @ 8000Hz (db)

Variable Name:
AUXR8KR
SAS Label:
Right retest threshold @ 8000Hz (db)
English Text:
Right retest threshold @ 8000Hz in decibels (Hearing Level)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
5 to 85 Range of Values 6 6
666 No response 0 6
888 Could not obtain 0 6
. Missing 2362 2368

AUXR1K1L - Left retest threshold @ 1000Hz (db)

Variable Name:
AUXR1K1L
SAS Label:
Left retest threshold @ 1000Hz (db)
English Text:
Left retest threshold @ 1000Hz in decibels (Hearing Level)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
15 to 90 Range of Values 23 23
666 No response 0 23
888 Could not obtain 0 23
. Missing 2345 2368

AUXR5CL - Left retest threshold @ 500Hz (db)

Variable Name:
AUXR5CL
SAS Label:
Left retest threshold @ 500Hz (db)
English Text:
Left retest threshold @ 500Hz in decibels (Hearing Level)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 110 Range of Values 24 24
666 No response 0 24
888 Could not obtain 0 24
. Missing 2344 2368

AUXR1K2L - Left Retest Threshold 1000Hz-2nd Read

Variable Name:
AUXR1K2L
SAS Label:
Left Retest Threshold 1000Hz-2nd Read
English Text:
Left retest threshold @ 1000Hz, (second reading) in decibels (Hearing Level)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
20 to 80 Range of Values 3 3
666 No response 0 3
888 Could not obtain 0 3
. Missing 2365 2368

AUXR2KL - Left retest threshold @ 2000Hz (db)

Variable Name:
AUXR2KL
SAS Label:
Left retest threshold @ 2000Hz (db)
English Text:
Left retest threshold @ 2000Hz in decibels (Hearing Level)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
30 to 95 Range of Values 11 11
666 No response 0 11
888 Could not obtain 0 11
. Missing 2357 2368

AUXR3KL - Left retest threshold @ 3000Hz (db)

Variable Name:
AUXR3KL
SAS Label:
Left retest threshold @ 3000Hz (db)
English Text:
Left retest threshold @ 3000Hz in decibels (Hearing Level)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
70 to 120 Range of Values 6 6
666 No response 0 6
888 Could not obtain 0 6
. Missing 2362 2368

AUXR4KL - Left retest threshold @ 4000Hz (db)

Variable Name:
AUXR4KL
SAS Label:
Left retest threshold @ 4000Hz (db)
English Text:
Left retest threshold @ 4000Hz in decibels (Hearing Level)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
45 to 105 Range of Values 9 9
666 No response 0 9
888 Could not obtain 0 9
. Missing 2359 2368

AUXR6KL - Left retest threshold @ 6000Hz (db)

Variable Name:
AUXR6KL
SAS Label:
Left retest threshold @ 6000Hz (db)
English Text:
Left retest threshold @ 6000Hz in decibels (Hearing Level)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
10 to 100 Range of Values 8 8
666 No response 1 9
888 Could not obtain 0 9
. Missing 2359 2368

AUXR8KL - Left retest threshold @ 8000Hz (db)

Variable Name:
AUXR8KL
SAS Label:
Left retest threshold @ 8000Hz (db)
English Text:
Left retest threshold @ 8000Hz in decibels (Hearing Level)
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
35 to 90 Range of Values 8 8
666 No response 0 8
888 Could not obtain 0 8
. Missing 2360 2368

AUAREQC - Right Ear Tympanogram Quality Code

Variable Name:
AUAREQC
SAS Label:
Right Ear Tympanogram Quality Code
English Text:
Quality Code for Tympanogram of Right Ear
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Good - tympanogram is smooth and symmetrical 1700 1700
2 Adequate - tympanogram is 'noisy' but adequate for interpretation 413 2113
3 Poor - tympanogram cannot be interpreted 24 2137
7 SP Refused Tympanometry 3 2140
8 There was no tymp 57 2197
9 Equivocal - tympanogram cannot be evaluated without further information 20 2217
888 CNO - technician could not obtain the tympanogram 0 2217
. Missing 151 2368

AUALEQC - Left Ear Tympanogram Quality Code

Variable Name:
AUALEQC
SAS Label:
Left Ear Tympanogram Quality Code
English Text:
Quality Code for Tympanogram of Left Ear
Target:
Both males and females 12 YEARS - 19 YEARS
Target:
Both males and females 70 YEARS - 150 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Good - tympanogram is smooth and symmetrical 1748 1748
2 Adequate - tympanogram is 'noisy' but adequate for interpretation 325 2073
3 Poor - tympanogram cannot be interpreted 32 2105
7 SP Refused Tympanometry 4 2109
8 There was no tymp 60 2169
9 Equivocal - tympanogram cannot be evaluated without further information 48 2217
888 CNO - technician could not obtain the tympanogram 0 2217
. Missing 151 2368