Table of Contents

Component Description

The NHANES 2011-2012 Audiometry Examination Component consists of four parts:

1) Pre-exam audiometric questionnaire-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: 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) Otoscopy-a brief otoscopic screening (physical) exam of the ear canals and eardrums to identify abnormalities which would require alternate audiometric procedures or influence interpretation of test results, and to identify conditions that might require medical referral. The exam screened for excessive or impacted ear cerumen (wax), physical abnormalities, or collapsing external ear canals.

3) Tympanometry-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_G Audiometry data file consists of quantitative measurement variables for middle ear volume, pressure, compliance, and gradient, and qualitative assessment variables for tympanogram. The raw data for the participants’ tympanometric curves is released separately (AUXTYM_G).

4) Pure tone air conduction audiometry-a measurement of 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

All adults aged 20–69 years were eligible. Participants using hearing aids who were not able to remove them for testing and participants 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 audiological exam.

Protocol and Procedure

All Audiometry Component sections were performed by a trained examiner on participants in a dedicated sound-isolating room in the mobile examination center (MEC). Hearing threshold testing was conducted on both ears 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 a participant 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 participant 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 "crossover" 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-49 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 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 and after the exam at each survey location using a Quest Model 1800 sound level meter kit. 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 survey location using the Quest 1800 sound level meter. The noise survey was repeated weekly throughout each survey location. 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 exam. 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 survey location and daily throughout each survey location. 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. 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.

Audiology 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 audiologist 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 nonresponse at a particular frequency, and does not represent actual measured decibel hearing threshold values. These nonresponse 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 20 YEARS - 69 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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Complete 3708 3708
2 Partial 200 3908
3 Not done 592 4500
. Missing 0 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Safety exclusion 1 1
2 SP refusal 23 24
3 No time 20 44
4 Physical limitation 62 106
5 Communication problem 16 122
6 Equipment failure 50 172
7 SP ill/emergency 11 183
56 Came late/left early 370 553
72 Error (technician/software/supply) 21 574
84 SP with child 94 668
99 Other, specify 82 750
122 Language barrier 42 792
. Missing 3708 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes, right ear 5 5
2 Yes, left ear 5 10
3 Yes, both ears 8 18
4 No 3872 3890
7 Refused 1 3891
9 Don't know 17 3908
. Missing 592 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes 477 477
2 No 3427 3904
7 Refused 1 3905
9 Don't know 3 3908
. Missing 592 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes (checkbox checked) 196 196
2 No (checkbox unchecked) 278 474
9 Don't know 3 477
. Missing 4023 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes (checkbox checked) 296 296
2 No (checkbox unchecked) 178 474
9 Don't know 3 477
. Missing 4023 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes (checkbox checked) 14 14
2 No (checkbox unchecked) 460 474
9 Don't know 3 477
. Missing 4023 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes (checkbox checked) 22 22
2 No (checkbox unchecked) 452 474
9 Don't know 3 477
. Missing 4023 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes (checkbox checked) 8 8
2 No (checkbox unchecked) 466 474
9 Don't know 3 477
. Missing 4023 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes 540 540
2 No 3365 3905
7 Refused 0 3905
9 Don't know 3 3908
. Missing 592 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Hard Edits:
1 to 24
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 to 24 Range of Values 540 540
77 SP refused 0 540
99 Don't know 0 540
. Missing 3960 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes, right ear 376 376
2 Yes, left ear 262 638
7 Refused 2 640
9 No / don't know 3268 3908
. Missing 592 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes (checkbox checked) 3372 3372
2 No (checkbox unchecked) 536 3908
. Missing 592 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes (checkbox checked) 425 425
2 No (checkbox unchecked) 3483 3908
. Missing 592 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes (checkbox checked) 88 88
2 No (checkbox unchecked) 3820 3908
. Missing 592 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes (checkbox checked) 43 43
2 No (checkbox unchecked) 3865 3908
. Missing 592 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes (checkbox checked) 25 25
2 No (checkbox unchecked) 3883 3908
. Missing 592 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Possible Perforated Eardrum 5 5
2 Perforated Eardrum 0 5
3 Possible Infection 5 10
4 TM Scarring or Deformity 4 14
5 Possible Ear Canal Abrasion 7 21
6 Growth or Foreign Body in Ear Canal 4 25
7 Deformity of Auricle 0 25
9 Could not Visualize Eardrum 0 25
. Missing 4475 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes (checkbox checked) 3328 3328
2 No (checkbox unchecked) 580 3908
. Missing 592 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes (checkbox checked) 463 463
2 No (checkbox unchecked) 3445 3908
. Missing 592 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes (checkbox checked) 89 89
2 No (checkbox unchecked) 3819 3908
. Missing 592 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes (checkbox checked) 28 28
2 No (checkbox unchecked) 3880 3908
. Missing 592 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Yes (checkbox checked) 29 29
2 No (checkbox unchecked) 3879 3908
. Missing 592 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Possible Perforated Eardrum 5 5
2 Perforated Eardrum 0 5
3 Possible Infection 5 10
4 TM Scarring or Deformity 2 12
5 Possible Ear Canal Abrasion 5 17
6 Growth or Foreign Body in Ear Canal 9 26
7 Deformity of Auricle 2 28
9 Could not Visualize Eardrum 1 29
. Missing 4471 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Hard Edits:
-400.0000 to 200.0000
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-300 to 138 Range of Values 3582 3582
555 Compliance <= 0.2 255 3837
777 Refused 3 3840
888 Could not obtain 33 3873
. Missing 627 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Hard Edits:
0.0 to 7.0
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
0.2 to 5.4 Range of Values 3827 3827
777 Refused 3 3830
888 Could not obtain 33 3863
. Missing 637 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Hard Edits:
0.0000 to 500.0000
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
0 to 264 Range of Values 3582 3582
555 Compliance <= 0.2 255 3837
777 Refused 3 3840
888 Could not obtain 33 3873
. Missing 627 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Hard Edits:
0.0000 to 8.0000
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
0 to 4.4 Range of Values 3837 3837
777 Refused 3 3840
888 Could not obtain 33 3873
. Missing 627 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Hard Edits:
-400.0000 to 200.0000
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-300 to 144 Range of Values 3516 3516
555 Compliance <= 0.2 318 3834
777 Refused 3 3837
888 Could not obtain 38 3875
. Missing 625 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Hard Edits:
0.0 to 7.0
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
0.2 to 5.2 Range of Values 3808 3808
777 Refused 3 3811
888 Could not obtain 38 3849
. Missing 651 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Hard Edits:
0.0000 to 500.0000
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
0 to 336 Range of Values 3516 3516
555 Compliance <= 0.2 318 3834
777 Refused 3 3837
888 Could not obtain 38 3875
. Missing 625 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Hard Edits:
0.0000 to 8.0000
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
0 to 6 Range of Values 3834 3834
777 Refused 3 3837
888 Could not obtain 38 3875
. Missing 625 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Right 2009 2009
2 Left 1871 3880
. Missing 620 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Manual 15 15
2 Automatic 3741 3756
3 Mixed 116 3872
. Missing 628 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 None 3817 3817
2 500 Hz 1 3818
3 1000 Hz 6 3824
4 2000 Hz 6 3830
5 3000 Hz 4 3834
6 4000 Hz 3 3837
7 6000 Hz 9 3846
8 8000 Hz 25 3871
. Missing 629 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 None 3810 3810
2 500 Hz 0 3810
3 1000 Hz 7 3817
4 2000 Hz 7 3824
5 3000 Hz 3 3827
6 4000 Hz 2 3829
7 6000 Hz 11 3840
8 8000 Hz 32 3872
. Missing 628 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 100 Range of Values 3851 3851
666 No response 1 3852
888 Could not obtain 16 3868
. Missing 632 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 90 Range of Values 3851 3851
666 No response 1 3852
888 Could not obtain 17 3869
. Missing 631 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 100 Range of Values 3855 3855
666 No response 1 3856
888 Could not obtain 17 3873
. Missing 627 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 120 Range of Values 3849 3849
666 No response 2 3851
888 Could not obtain 18 3869
. Missing 631 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 120 Range of Values 3847 3847
666 No response 1 3848
888 Could not obtain 20 3868
. Missing 632 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 120 Range of Values 3842 3842
666 No response 5 3847
888 Could not obtain 21 3868
. Missing 632 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 120 Range of Values 3841 3841
666 No response 6 3847
888 Could not obtain 21 3868
. Missing 632 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 110 Range of Values 3838 3838
666 No response 8 3846
888 Could not obtain 21 3867
. Missing 633 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 100 Range of Values 3851 3851
666 No response 1 3852
888 Could not obtain 11 3863
. Missing 637 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 100 Range of Values 3849 3849
666 No response 1 3850
888 Could not obtain 12 3862
. Missing 638 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 100 Range of Values 3853 3853
666 No response 1 3854
888 Could not obtain 13 3867
. Missing 633 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 120 Range of Values 3849 3849
666 No response 2 3851
888 Could not obtain 15 3866
. Missing 634 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 120 Range of Values 3845 3845
666 No response 2 3847
888 Could not obtain 17 3864
. Missing 636 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 120 Range of Values 3843 3843
666 No response 4 3847
888 Could not obtain 17 3864
. Missing 636 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 120 Range of Values 3846 3846
666 No response 3 3849
888 Could not obtain 16 3865
. Missing 635 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
-10 to 110 Range of Values 3838 3838
666 No response 8 3846
888 Could not obtain 16 3862
. Missing 638 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
15 to 100 Range of Values 38 38
666 No response 0 38
888 Could not obtain 0 38
. Missing 4462 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
5 to 95 Range of Values 34 34
666 No response 0 34
888 Could not obtain 0 34
. Missing 4466 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
30 to 35 Range of Values 2 2
666 No response 0 2
888 Could not obtain 0 2
. Missing 4498 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
25 to 100 Range of Values 15 15
666 No response 0 15
888 Could not obtain 0 15
. Missing 4485 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
50 to 100 Range of Values 12 12
666 No response 1 13
888 Could not obtain 0 13
. Missing 4487 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
30 to 115 Range of Values 19 19
666 No response 0 19
888 Could not obtain 0 19
. Missing 4481 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
50 to 110 Range of Values 14 14
666 No response 1 15
888 Could not obtain 0 15
. Missing 4485 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
25 to 90 Range of Values 20 20
666 No response 3 23
888 Could not obtain 0 23
. Missing 4477 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
10 to 105 Range of Values 38 38
666 No response 0 38
888 Could not obtain 0 38
. Missing 4462 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
20 to 105 Range of Values 34 34
666 No response 0 34
888 Could not obtain 0 34
. Missing 4466 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
666 No response 0 0
888 Could not obtain 0 0
. Missing 4500 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
0 to 105 Range of Values 19 19
666 No response 0 19
888 Could not obtain 0 19
. Missing 4481 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
40 to 115 Range of Values 29 29
666 No response 0 29
888 Could not obtain 0 29
. Missing 4471 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
30 to 100 Range of Values 24 24
666 No response 1 25
888 Could not obtain 0 25
. Missing 4475 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
15 to 110 Range of Values 35 35
666 No response 1 36
888 Could not obtain 0 36
. Missing 4464 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
5 to 110 Range of Values 42 42
666 No response 2 44
888 Could not obtain 0 44
. Missing 4456 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Good - tympanogram is smooth and symmetrical 3272 3272
2 Adequate - tympanogram is 'noisy' but adequate for interpretation 510 3782
3 Poor - tympanogram cannot be interpreted 33 3815
7 SP Refused Tympanometry 5 3820
8 There was no tymp 61 3881
9 Equivocal - tympanogram cannot be evaluated without further information 25 3906
888 CNO - technician could not obtain the tympanogram 0 3906
. Missing 594 4500

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 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS
Code or Value Value Description Count Cumulative Skip to Item
1 Good - tympanogram is smooth and symmetrical 3351 3351
2 Adequate - tympanogram is 'noisy' but adequate for interpretation 379 3730
3 Poor - tympanogram cannot be interpreted 55 3785
7 SP Refused Tympanometry 5 3790
8 There was no tymp 66 3856
9 Equivocal - tympanogram cannot be evaluated without further information 50 3906
888 CNO - technician could not obtain the tympanogram 0 3906
. Missing 594 4500