National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

2015-2016 Data Documentation, Codebook, and Frequencies

Audiometry (AUX_I)

Data File: AUX_I.xpt

First Published: November 2019

Last Revised: NA

Component Description

The NHANES 2015-2016 Audiometry examination component (variable name prefix AUX) consists of four parts:

1) Pre-exam audiometric question – a series of questions to identify conditions that would affect how audiometric testing is conducted, or how results are interpreted. Questions include whether the participant has ear tubes, a current cold or ear problem, or recent loud noise exposure. NOTE: more extensive data relating to a survey participant’s hearing status, including information regarding occupational noise exposure are contained in the audiometry questionnaire (AUQ) section of the NHANES Sample Person 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 which might require medical referral. The exam screened for excessive or impacted ear cerumen (wax), physical abnormalities, or collapsing external ear canals.

3) Middle ear testing – a measurement of eardrum compliance by placing a probe with a rubber tip into the entrance of the ear canal. It is used to identify middle ear pathologies that might contribute to a hearing loss. The audiometry exam in NHANES 2015-2016 includes three middle ear tests: tympanometry, wideband reflectance, and acoustic reflex. The AUX_I data file consists of tympanometric quantitative measurement variables for middle ear volume, pressure, compliance, and gradient. It also includes tympanogram quality ratings and scores variables. The raw data for the participant's tympanometric curves (AUXTYM_I), wideband reflectance curves (AUXWBR_I), and acoustic reflex curves (AUXREF_I) are released separately.

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 participant’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.

Protocol and Procedure

All audiometry exam sections were performed by trained examiners on participants in a dedicated sound-isolating room in the mobile examination center (MEC). Hearing threshold testing was conducted on both ears of participants 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 NHANS hearing threshold testing, 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-49P headphones and Etymotic EarTone 3A insert earphones. An Interacoustics Titan (middle ear analyzer) was used to conduct middle ear testing. 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-202-27 Bioacoustic Simulator and Octave Band Monitor. AUX data were entered directly into the computerized NHANES survey database system. Data from the Interacoustics Model AD226 audiometer and Interacoustics Titan 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-202-27 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 the exam. 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-202-27 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 Titan was checked before and after the exam at each survey location and daily throughout each survey location. In addition, the MEC Health Technicians ran a sample test on one ear to ensure that the unit is producing clear, normal graphs. The Titan 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 participant’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 tympanometry measurements reported in this data file represent the single best of each of the two curves obtained during middle ear 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. The consulting Audiologist also scored these tympanograms using a common classification system developed by Liden (1969) and modified by Jerger (1970). Two new variables AUATYMTR and AUATYMTL provide information about what the tympanometry results mean in terms of the participant’s middle ear status.

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 participant 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 and the on-line NHANES Tutorial for further details on the use of sample weights and other analytic issues.

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 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

National Center for Health Statistics. Audiometry/Tympanometry Procedures Manual. https://wwwn.cdc.gov/nchs/data/nhanes/2015-2016/manuals/2016_Audiometry_Procedures_Manual.pdf

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
1	Complete	4021	4021
2	Partial	348	4369
3	Not done	213	4582
.	Missing	0	4582

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
1	Safety exclusion	2	2
2	SP refusal	36	38
3	No time	6	44
4	Physical limitation	28	72
5	Communication problem	17	89
6	Equipment failure	26	115
7	SP ill/emergency	7	122
51	SP unable to comply	1	123
56	Came late/left early	149	272
72	Error (technician/software/supply)	22	294
84	SP with child	8	302
99	Other, specify	68	370
122	Language barrier	2	372
.	Missing	4210	4582

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
1	Yes, right ear	7	7
2	Yes, left ear	4	11
3	Yes, both ears	2	13
4	No	4345	4358
7	Refused	5	4363
9	Don't know	9	4372
.	Missing	210	4582

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
1	Yes	478	478
2	No	3886	4364
7	Refused	6	4370
9	Don't know	2	4372
.	Missing	210	4582

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
1	Yes (checkbox checked)	175	175
2	No (checkbox unchecked)	302	477
9	Don't know	1	478
.	Missing	4104	4582

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
1	Yes (checkbox checked)	300	300
2	No (checkbox unchecked)	177	477
9	Don't know	1	478
.	Missing	4104	4582

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
1	Yes (checkbox checked)	31	31
2	No (checkbox unchecked)	446	477
9	Don't know	1	478
.	Missing	4104	4582

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
1	Yes (checkbox checked)	29	29
2	No (checkbox unchecked)	448	477
9	Don't know	1	478
.	Missing	4104	4582

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
1	Yes (checkbox checked)	8	8
2	No (checkbox unchecked)	469	477
9	Don't know	1	478
.	Missing	4104	4582

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
1	Yes	656	656
2	No	3711	4367
7	Refused	5	4372
9	Don't know	0	4372
.	Missing	210	4582

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
1 to 24	Range of Values	656	656
77	SP refused	0	656
99	Don't know	0	656
.	Missing	3926	4582

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
1	Yes, right ear	455	455
2	Yes, left ear	361	816
7	Refused	8	824
9	No / don't know	3548	4372
.	Missing	210	4582

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
1	Yes (checkbox checked)	3689	3689
2	No (checkbox unchecked)	680	4369
.	Missing	213	4582

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
1	Yes (checkbox checked)	517	517
2	No (checkbox unchecked)	3852	4369
.	Missing	213	4582

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
1	Yes (checkbox checked)	132	132
2	No (checkbox unchecked)	4237	4369
.	Missing	213	4582

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
1	Yes (checkbox checked)	3	3
2	No (checkbox unchecked)	4366	4369
.	Missing	213	4582

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
1	Yes (checkbox checked)	31	31
2	No (checkbox unchecked)	4338	4369
.	Missing	213	4582

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
1	Possible Perforated Eardrum	6	6
3	Possible Infection	4	10
4	TM Scarring or Deformity	7	17
5	Possible Ear Canal Abrasion	6	23
6	Growth or Foreign Body in Ear Canal	6	29
7	Deformity of Auricle	0	29
8	Other	1	30
9	Could not Visualize Eardrum	1	31
.	Missing	4551	4582

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
1	Yes (checkbox checked)	3623	3623
2	No (checkbox unchecked)	746	4369
.	Missing	213	4582

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
1	Yes (checkbox checked)	568	568
2	No (checkbox unchecked)	3801	4369
.	Missing	213	4582

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
1	Yes (checkbox checked)	146	146
2	No (checkbox unchecked)	4223	4369
.	Missing	213	4582

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
1	Yes (checkbox checked)	3	3
2	No (checkbox unchecked)	4366	4369
.	Missing	213	4582

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
1	Yes (checkbox checked)	32	32
2	No (checkbox unchecked)	4337	4369
.	Missing	213	4582

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
1	Possible Perforated Eardrum	1	1
3	Possible Infection	1	2
4	TM Scarring or Deformity	5	7
5	Possible Ear Canal Abrasion	7	14
6	Growth or Foreign Body in Ear Canal	11	25
7	Deformity of Auricle	0	25
8	Other	5	30
9	Could not Visualize Eardrum	2	32
.	Missing	4550	4582

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
-299 to 198	Range of Values	4116	4116
555	Compliance <= 0.2	0	4116
777	Refused	0	4116
888	Could not obtain	0	4116
.	Missing	466	4582

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
0.252 to 6.582	Range of Values	4241	4241
777	Refused	0	4241
888	Could not obtain	0	4241
.	Missing	341	4582

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
8 to 479	Range of Values	4149	4149
555	Compliance <= 0.2	0	4149
777	Refused	0	4149
888	Could not obtain	0	4149
.	Missing	433	4582

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
0.15 to 7.094	Range of Values	4148	4148
777	Refused	0	4148
888	Could not obtain	0	4148
.	Missing	434	4582

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
-299 to 199	Range of Values	4101	4101
555	Compliance <= 0.2	0	4101
777	Refused	0	4101
888	Could not obtain	0	4101
.	Missing	481	4582

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
0.235 to 6.372	Range of Values	4228	4228
777	Refused	0	4228
888	Could not obtain	0	4228
.	Missing	354	4582

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
2 to 479	Range of Values	4103	4103
555	Compliance <= 0.2	0	4103
777	Refused	0	4103
888	Could not obtain	0	4103
.	Missing	479	4582

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
0.151 to 7.558	Range of Values	4102	4102
777	Refused	0	4102
888	Could not obtain	0	4102
.	Missing	480	4582

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
1	Right	2269	2269
2	Left	2068	4337
.	Missing	245	4582

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
1	Manual	51	51
2	Automatic	4115	4166
3	Mixed	161	4327
.	Missing	255	4582

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
1	None	4257	4257
2	500 Hz	0	4257
3	1000 Hz	9	4266
4	2000 Hz	6	4272
5	3000 Hz	2	4274
6	4000 Hz	5	4279
7	6000 Hz	10	4289
8	8000 Hz	36	4325
.	Missing	257	4582

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
1	None	4226	4226
2	500 Hz	2	4228
3	1000 Hz	14	4242
4	2000 Hz	5	4247
5	3000 Hz	4	4251
6	4000 Hz	4	4255
7	6000 Hz	22	4277
8	8000 Hz	48	4325
.	Missing	257	4582

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
-10 to 120	Range of Values	4298	4298
666	No response	1	4299
888	Could not obtain	23	4322
.	Missing	260	4582

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
-10 to 110	Range of Values	4297	4297
666	No response	1	4298
888	Could not obtain	23	4321
.	Missing	261	4582

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
-10 to 120	Range of Values	4297	4297
666	No response	2	4299
888	Could not obtain	23	4322
.	Missing	260	4582

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
-10 to 105	Range of Values	4297	4297
666	No response	1	4298
888	Could not obtain	27	4325
.	Missing	257	4582

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
-10 to 105	Range of Values	4298	4298
666	No response	1	4299
888	Could not obtain	27	4326
.	Missing	256	4582

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
-10 to 120	Range of Values	4299	4299
666	No response	0	4299
888	Could not obtain	27	4326
.	Missing	256	4582

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
-10 to 120	Range of Values	4295	4295
666	No response	3	4298
888	Could not obtain	27	4325
.	Missing	257	4582

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
-10 to 110	Range of Values	4286	4286
666	No response	10	4296
888	Could not obtain	28	4324
.	Missing	258	4582

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
-10 to 110	Range of Values	4299	4299
666	No response	1	4300
888	Could not obtain	23	4323
.	Missing	259	4582

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
-10 to 100	Range of Values	4300	4300
666	No response	0	4300
888	Could not obtain	24	4324
.	Missing	258	4582

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
-10 to 110	Range of Values	4299	4299
666	No response	1	4300
888	Could not obtain	24	4324
.	Missing	258	4582

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
-10 to 115	Range of Values	4298	4298
666	No response	0	4298
888	Could not obtain	28	4326
.	Missing	256	4582

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
-10 to 120	Range of Values	4297	4297
666	No response	1	4298
888	Could not obtain	28	4326
.	Missing	256	4582

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
-10 to 120	Range of Values	4296	4296
666	No response	1	4297
888	Could not obtain	29	4326
.	Missing	256	4582

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
-10 to 120	Range of Values	4291	4291
666	No response	6	4297
888	Could not obtain	29	4326
.	Missing	256	4582

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
-10 to 110	Range of Values	4283	4283
666	No response	12	4295
888	Could not obtain	30	4325
.	Missing	257	4582

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
25 to 110	Range of Values	24	24
666	No response	0	24
888	Could not obtain	0	24
.	Missing	4558	4582

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
10 to 110	Range of Values	24	24
666	No response	1	25
888	Could not obtain	0	25
.	Missing	4557	4582

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
25 to 45	Range of Values	2	2
666	No response	0	2
888	Could not obtain	0	2
.	Missing	4580	4582

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
45 to 105	Range of Values	15	15
666	No response	0	15
888	Could not obtain	0	15
.	Missing	4567	4582

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
15 to 105	Range of Values	21	21
666	No response	0	21
888	Could not obtain	0	21
.	Missing	4561	4582

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
30 to 105	Range of Values	22	22
666	No response	0	22
888	Could not obtain	0	22
.	Missing	4560	4582

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
10 to 100	Range of Values	30	30
666	No response	4	34
888	Could not obtain	0	34
.	Missing	4548	4582

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
25 to 95	Range of Values	34	34
666	No response	0	34
888	Could not obtain	0	34
.	Missing	4548	4582

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
10 to 110	Range of Values	42	42
666	No response	1	43
888	Could not obtain	0	43
.	Missing	4539	4582

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
15 to 110	Range of Values	34	34
666	No response	0	34
888	Could not obtain	0	34
.	Missing	4548	4582

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
30 to 60	Range of Values	3	3
666	No response	0	3
888	Could not obtain	0	3
.	Missing	4579	4582

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
35 to 120	Range of Values	21	21
666	No response	0	21
888	Could not obtain	0	21
.	Missing	4561	4582

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
15 to 95	Range of Values	29	29
666	No response	1	30
888	Could not obtain	0	30
.	Missing	4552	4582

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
25 to 115	Range of Values	34	34
666	No response	2	36
888	Could not obtain	0	36
.	Missing	4546	4582

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
15 to 100	Range of Values	44	44
666	No response	3	47
888	Could not obtain	0	47
.	Missing	4535	4582

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
35 to 100	Range of Values	43	43
666	No response	2	45
888	Could not obtain	0	45
.	Missing	4537	4582

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
1	Good - tympanogram is smooth and symmetrical	3722	3722
2	Adequate - tympanogram is 'noisy' but adequate for interpretation	462	4184
3	Poor - tympanogram cannot be interpreted	57	4241
7	SP Refused Tympanometry	0	4241
8	There was no tymp	60	4301
9	Equivocal - tympanogram cannot be evaluated without further information	0	4301
888	CNO - technician could not obtain the tympanogram	0	4301
.	Missing	281	4582

AUATYMTR - Tympanogram Type, Right Ear

Variable Name:: AUATYMTR
SAS Label:: Tympanogram Type, Right Ear
English Text:: Tympanogram Type, Right Ear
Target:: Both males and females 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative
Type A	Normal	3908	3908
Type AS	Normal, but the ear drum is unusually stiff	131	4039
Type AD	Normal, but the ear drum is unusually flaccid	75	4114
Type B	Flat, no measurable ear drum mobility	23	4137
Type C	Normal ear drum mobility, but negative middle ear pressure	47	4184
88888	Could not obtain	60	4244
99999	Could not interpret	57	4301
< blank >	Missing	281	4582

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
1	Good - tympanogram is smooth and symmetrical	3654	3654
2	Adequate - tympanogram is 'noisy' but adequate for interpretation	507	4161
3	Poor - tympanogram cannot be interpreted	67	4228
7	SP Refused Tympanometry	0	4228
8	There was no tymp	75	4303
9	Equivocal - tympanogram cannot be evaluated without further information	0	4303
888	CNO - technician could not obtain the tympanogram	0	4303
.	Missing	279	4582

AUATYMTL - Tympanogram Type, Left Ear

Variable Name:: AUATYMTL
SAS Label:: Tympanogram Type, Left Ear
English Text:: Tympanogram Type, Left Ear
Target:: Both males and females 20 YEARS - 69 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative
Type A	Normal	3886	3886
Type AS	Normal, but the ear drum is unusually stiff	135	4021
Type AD	Normal, but the ear drum is unusually flaccid	75	4096
Type B	Flat, no measurable ear drum mobility	22	4118
Type C	Normal ear drum mobility, but negative middle ear pressure	43	4161
88888	Could not obtain	75	4236
99999	Could not interpret	67	4303
< blank >	Missing	279	4582

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