National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

2017-2018 Data Documentation, Codebook, and Frequencies

Audiometry (AUQ_J)

Data File: AUQ_J.xpt

First Published: July 2020

Last Revised: NA

Component Description

The Audiometry questionnaire section (variable name prefix AUQ) provides interview data on self-reported hearing status, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), hearing screening history, the use of hearing aids, the use of assistive devices for hearing, and risk factors for hearing loss.

Topics included in this section are:

Self-assessed condition of hearing;
The Gallaudet hearing scale for self-reported hearing loss;
Impact of hearing ability on daily life;
Onset and cause of any self-reported hearing trouble;
History of ear infections; ear tube placed for infection;
History of speech-language or special education services;
How recently hearing tests were performed, if ever;
Hearing aid use and cochlear implant status;
Use of assistive listening devices;
12-month period prevalence of tinnitus: how long bothered by tinnitus, tinnitus present after loud sounds, bothered by tinnitus when falling asleep, self-assessed severity of tinnitus;
History of exposure to firearms noise, occupational and/or non-occupational loud noise; and
Data on hearing protection use.

Eligible Sample

All survey participants, aged 1 year and older, were eligible for the initial question (AUQ054) relating to self-reported hearing capability/deficits. The rest of the questions in this section were only for participants aged 6-19 and 70 years and older.

Interview Setting and Mode of Administration

These questions were asked, in the home, by trained interviewers using the Computer-Assisted Personal Interview (CAPI) system. Hand cards showing response categories were also used for some questions. When necessary, the interviewers read the hand cards to respondents. Persons 16 years of age and older and emancipated minors were interviewed directly. A proxy provided information for survey participants who were under 16 years of age and for participants whom could not answer the questions themselves.

The Interviewer Procedure Manuals and Survey Questionnaires can be found on the NHANES website.

Quality Assurance & Quality Control

The CAPI system is programmed with built-in consistency checks to reduce data entry errors. CAPI also uses online help screens to assist interviewers in defining key terms used in the questionnaire.

Data Processing and Editing

The 2017-2018 data were reviewed, frequency counts were checked, “skip” patterns were verified, and the reasonableness of question responses was reviewed.

Analytic Notes

Full sample NHANES 2017-2018 Interview weights should be used if statistical analysis only involves the NHANES questionnaire data. Although these data were collected as a part of the household questionnaire, if they are merged with MEC examination data (for example the Audiometry examination or laboratory data), exam sample weights should be used for analyses. 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.

When combining AUQ data from different survey cycles, please note that there are some modifications in questions between survey cycles. The age range for this questionnaire changed for the 2017-2018 cycle. Except for question AUQ054, which was asked of every participant 1+ years, the age range was 6-19 and 70+ years. See Appendix I for more details on the changes in the AUQ section from 1999 to 2018.

Previous National Health Interview Survey Audiometry questionnaires served as questionnaire sources (NHIS,2007; Ries,1982). Other related datasets, including Audiometry, Tympanometry, Wideband Absorbance, and Acoustic Reflex examination data for NHANES participants is available in the Audiometry section of the NHANES 2017–2018 Examination data files.

References

National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) Questionnaire - Sample Adult Conditions. 2007. Data collection items ACN.400_00.010- ACN.415_00.040. ftp://ftp.cdc.gov/pub/Health_Statistics/NCHS/Survey_Questionnaires/NHIS/2007/English/qadult.pdf
Ries, PW. Hearing Ability of Persons by Sociodemographic and Health Characteristics: United States.1982. (PHS) 82-1568. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/series/sr_10/sr10_140.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 1 YEARS - 150 YEARS

AUQ054 - General condition of hearing

Variable Name:: AUQ054
SAS Label:: General condition of hearing
English Text:: These next questions are about {your/SP's} hearing. Which statement best describes {your/SP's} hearing (without a hearing aid, personal sound amplifier, or other listening devices)? Would you say {your/his/her} hearing is excellent, good, that {you have/s/he has} a little trouble, moderate trouble, a lot of trouble, or {are you/is s/he} deaf?
Target:: Both males and females 1 YEARS - 150 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative
1	Excellent	4361	4361
2	Good	3074	7435
3	A little trouble	899	8334
4	Moderate hearing trouble	372	8706
5	A lot of trouble	166	8872
6	Deaf	22	8894
77	Refused	0	8894
99	Don't know	3	8897
.	Missing	0	8897

AUQ055 - CHECK ITEM

Variable Name:: AUQ055
English Instructions:: BOX 1A. IF {SP AGE >= 6, AND SP AGE <= 19 OR SP AGE > 69} AND {AUQ054 = 1, 77, 99}, GO TO AUQ420; IF {SP AGE >= 6, AND SP AGE <= 19 OR SP AGE > 69} AND {AUQ054 = 2, 3, 4, 5 OR 6}, CONTINUE. OTHERWISE, END OF SECTION.
Target:: Both males and females 1 YEARS - 150 YEARS

AUQ060 - Hear a whisper from across a quiet room?

Variable Name:: AUQ060
SAS Label:: Hear a whisper from across a quiet room?
English Text:: These next questions refer to hearing without the use of a hearing aid or any other listening devices. If {you have/SP has} one ear that is better than the other, please answer the questions for the hearing in {your/SP's} better ear. Can {you/SP} usually hear and understand what a person says without seeing his or her face if that person whispers to {you/him/her} from across a quiet room?
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative	Skip to Item
1	Yes	1059	1059	AUQ395
2	No	573	1632
7	Refused	1	1633
9	Don't know	30	1663
.	Missing	7234	8897

AUQ070 - Hear normal voice across a quiet room?

Variable Name:: AUQ070
SAS Label:: Hear normal voice across a quiet room?
English Text:: Can {you/SP} usually hear and understand what a person says without seeing his or her face if that person talks in a normal voice to {you/him/her} from across a quiet room?
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative	Skip to Item
1	Yes	390	390	AUQ395
2	No	205	595
7	Refused	1	596
9	Don't know	8	604
.	Missing	8293	8897

AUQ080 - Hear a shout from across a quiet room?

Variable Name:: AUQ080
SAS Label:: Hear a shout from across a quiet room?
English Text:: Can {you/SP} usually hear and understand what a person says without seeing his or her face if that person shouts to {you/him/her} from across a quiet room?
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative	Skip to Item
1	Yes	159	159	AUQ395
2	No	52	211
7	Refused	0	211
9	Don't know	3	214
.	Missing	8683	8897

AUQ090 - Hear if spoken loudly to in better ear?

Variable Name:: AUQ090
SAS Label:: Hear if spoken loudly to in better ear?
English Text:: Can{you/SP} usually hear and understand what a person says without seeing his or her face if that person speaks loudly into {your/his/her} better ear?
English Instructions:: INTERVIEWER: IF THE INTERVIEWEE HEARS BETTER IN ONE EAR THAN THE OTHER, RECORD THE RESPONSE FOR SPEAKING LOUDLY INTO THE BETTER EAR.
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative
1	Yes	35	35
2	No	18	53
7	Refused	0	53
9	Don't know	2	55
.	Missing	8842	8897

AUQ395 - CHECK ITEM

Variable Name:: AUQ395
English Instructions:: BOX 2A. IF AUQ054 = {3, 4, 5 OR 6} CONTINUE. OTHERWISE, GO TO AUQ420.
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 150 YEARS

AUQ400 - When began to have hearing loss?

Variable Name:: AUQ400
SAS Label:: When began to have hearing loss?
English Text:: How old {were you/was SP} when {you/he/she} began to have any hearing loss?
English Instructions:: READ CATEGORIES IF NECESSARY
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative
1	Before age 1 year old	14	14
2	Between 2 and 5 years old	24	38
3	Between 6 and 19 years old	79	117
4	Between 20 and 39 years old	46	163
5	Between 40 and 59 years old	78	241
6	Between 60 and 69 years old	129	370
7	70 years and older	219	589
8	No hearing loss	6	595
77	Refused	0	595
99	Don't know	11	606
.	Missing	8291	8897

AUQ410a - Cause of hearing loss-Genetic/Hereditary

Variable Name:: AUQ410a
SAS Label:: Cause of hearing loss-Genetic/Hereditary
English Text:: What are the main causes of {your/SP's} hearing loss?
English Instructions:: INTERVIEWER INSTRUCTION: CODE ALL THAT APPLY HAND CARD AUQ1
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative
1	Genetic/Hereditary causes	55	55
77	Refused	0	55
99	Don't know	29	84
.	Missing	8813	8897

AUQ410b - Cause of hearing loss-Ear infections

Variable Name:: AUQ410b
SAS Label:: Cause of hearing loss-Ear infections
English Text:: What are the main causes of {your/SP's} hearing loss?
English Instructions:: INTERVIEWER INSTRUCTION: CODE ALL THAT APPLY HAND CARD AUQ1
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative	Skip to Item
2	Ear infections (including fluid in ears)	81	81
.	Missing	8816	8897

AUQ410c - Cause of hearing loss-Ear diseases

Variable Name:: AUQ410c
SAS Label:: Cause of hearing loss-Ear diseases
English Text:: What are the main causes of {your/SP's} hearing loss?
English Instructions:: INTERVIEWER INSTRUCTION: CODE ALL THAT APPLY HAND CARD AUQ1
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative	Skip to Item
3	Ear diseases (Otosclerosis, Menieres, Tumor)	18	18
.	Missing	8879	8897

AUQ410d - Cause of hearing loss-Illness/Infections

Variable Name:: AUQ410d
SAS Label:: Cause of hearing loss-Illness/Infections
English Text:: What are the main causes of {your/SP's} hearing loss?
English Instructions:: INTERVIEWER INSTRUCTION: CODE ALL THAT APPLY HAND CARD AUQ1
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative	Skip to Item
4	Illness/Infections (Measles, Meningitis, Mumps)	26	26
.	Missing	8871	8897

AUQ410e - Cause of hearing loss-Drugs/Medications

Variable Name:: AUQ410e
SAS Label:: Cause of hearing loss-Drugs/Medications
English Text:: What are the main causes of {your/SP's} hearing loss?
English Instructions:: INTERVIEWER INSTRUCTION: CODE ALL THAT APPLY HAND CARD AUQ1
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative	Skip to Item
5	Drugs/Medications	8	8
.	Missing	8889	8897

AUQ410f - Cause of hearing loss-Head/Neck injury

Variable Name:: AUQ410f
SAS Label:: Cause of hearing loss-Head/Neck injury
English Text:: What are the main causes of {your/SP's} hearing loss?
English Instructions:: INTERVIEWER INSTRUCTION: CODE ALL THAT APPLY HAND CARD AUQ1
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative	Skip to Item
6	Head or neck injury/trauma	18	18
.	Missing	8879	8897

AUQ410g - Cause of hearing loss-Loud brief noise

Variable Name:: AUQ410g
SAS Label:: Cause of hearing loss-Loud brief noise
English Text:: What are the main causes of {your/SP's} hearing loss?
English Instructions:: INTERVIEWER INSTRUCTION: CODE ALL THAT APPLY HAND CARD AUQ1
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative	Skip to Item
7	Loud brief explosive noise/sounds	90	90
.	Missing	8807	8897

AUQ410h - Cause of hearing loss-Long-term noise

Variable Name:: AUQ410h
SAS Label:: Cause of hearing loss-Long-term noise
English Text:: What are the main causes of {your/SP's} hearing loss?
English Instructions:: INTERVIEWER INSTRUCTION: CODE ALL THAT APPLY HAND CARD AUQ1
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative	Skip to Item
8	Noise exposure, long-term (machinery, etc.)	188	188
.	Missing	8709	8897

AUQ410i - Cause of hearing loss-Aging

Variable Name:: AUQ410i
SAS Label:: Cause of hearing loss-Aging
English Text:: What are the main causes of {your/SP's} hearing loss?
English Instructions:: INTERVIEWER INSTRUCTION: CODE ALL THAT APPLY HAND CARD AUQ1
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative	Skip to Item
9	Aging, getting older	312	312
.	Missing	8585	8897

AUQ410j - Cause of hearing loss-Others

Variable Name:: AUQ410j
SAS Label:: Cause of hearing loss-Others
English Text:: What are the main causes of {your/SP's} hearing loss?
English Instructions:: INTERVIEWER INSTRUCTION: CODE ALL THAT APPLY HAND CARD AUQ1
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative	Skip to Item
10	Other causes	26	26
.	Missing	8871	8897

AUQ156 - Ever used assistive listening devices?

Variable Name:: AUQ156
SAS Label:: Ever used assistive listening devices?
English Text:: Because of hearing loss, {have you/has SP} ever used any of the following to improve {your/his/her} communication: FM systems, closed-captioned television, instant or text messages, live video streaming, amplified telephone, relay services, or a sign-language interpreter?
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative
1	Yes	124	124
2	No	482	606
7	Refused	0	606
9	Don't know	0	606
.	Missing	8291	8897

AUQ420 - Ever had ear infections or earaches?

Variable Name:: AUQ420
SAS Label:: Ever had ear infections or earaches?
English Text:: {Have you/Has SP} ever had ear infections or earaches?
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative	Skip to Item
1	Yes	1621	1621
2	No	1717	3338	AUQ144
7	Refused	0	3338	AUQ144
9	Don't know	15	3353	AUQ144
.	Missing	5544	8897

AUQ430 - Ever had 3 or more ear infections?

Variable Name:: AUQ430
SAS Label:: Ever had 3 or more ear infections?
English Text:: {Have you/Has SP} ever had 3 or more ear infections or earaches?
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative
1	Yes	752	752
2	No	849	1601
7	Refused	0	1601
9	Don't know	20	1621
.	Missing	7276	8897

AUQ139 - Ever had tube placed in ear?

Variable Name:: AUQ139
SAS Label:: Ever had tube placed in ear?
English Text:: {Have you/Has SP} ever had a tube placed in {your/his/her} ear to drain the fluid from {your/his/her} ear or to treat ear infections?
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative
1	Yes	196	196
2	No	1408	1604
7	Refused	1	1605
9	Don't know	16	1621
.	Missing	7276	8897

AUQ144 - Last time hearing tested by specialist?

Variable Name:: AUQ144
SAS Label:: Last time hearing tested by specialist?
English Text:: A hearing test by a specialist is one that is done in a sound proof booth or room, or with headphones. Hearing specialists include audiologists, ear nose and throat doctors, and trained technicians or occupational nurses. When was the last time {you /SP} had {your/his/her} hearing tested by a hearing specialist?
English Instructions:: READ CATEGORIES IF NECESSARY
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative
1	Less than a year ago	829	829
2	1 year to 4 years ago	932	1761
3	5 to 9 years ago	366	2127
4	Ten or more years ago	316	2443
5	Never	794	3237
7	Refused	3	3240
9	Don't know	113	3353
.	Missing	5544	8897

AUQ147 - Now use hearing aid/ amplifier/ implant

Variable Name:: AUQ147
SAS Label:: Now use hearing aid/ amplifier/ implant
English Text:: {Do you/Does SP} now wear or use a hearing aid, a personal sound amplifier, or cochlear implant?
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative	Skip to Item
1	Yes	215	215
2	No	3138	3353	AUQ630
7	Refused	0	3353	AUQ630
9	Don't know	0	3353	AUQ630
.	Missing	5544	8897

AUQ149a - Now use a hearing aid

Variable Name:: AUQ149a
SAS Label:: Now use a hearing aid
English Text:: Which was it?
English Instructions:: CODE ALL THAT APPLY IF ANY OR ALL RESPONSE OPTIONS 1, 2, OR 3 ARE SELECTED, GO TO AUQ153.
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative	Skip to Item
1	A hearing aid	207	207
7	Refused	0	207	AUQ435
9	Don't know	0	207	AUQ435
.	Missing	8690	8897

AUQ149b - Now use a personal sound amplifier

Variable Name:: AUQ149b
SAS Label:: Now use a personal sound amplifier
English Text:: Which was it?
English Instructions:: CODE ALL THAT APPLY CAPI INSTRUCTION: IF ANY OR ALL RESPONSE OPTIONS 1, 2, OR 3 ARE SELECTED, GO TO AUQ153.
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative	Skip to Item
2	A personal sound amplifier	8	8
.	Missing	8889	8897

AUQ149c - Now have a cochlear implant

Variable Name:: AUQ149c
SAS Label:: Now have a cochlear implant
English Text:: Which was it?
English Instructions:: CODE ALL THAT APPLY CAPI INSTRUCTION: IF ANY OR ALL RESPONSE OPTIONS 1, 2, OR 3 ARE SELECTED, GO TO AUQ153.
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative	Skip to Item
3	A Cochlear implant	4	4
.	Missing	8893	8897

AUQ153 - Past 2 weeks how often worn hearing aid

Variable Name:: AUQ153
SAS Label:: Past 2 weeks how often worn hearing aid
English Text:: In the past 2 weeks, how often {have you/has SP} worn a {hearing aid and/or personal sound amplifier and/or cochlear implant}? If unsure, provide your best estimate of the average amount of time {you have/he has/she has} worn {your/his/her} {hearing aid, and/or personal sound amplifier, and/or cochlear implant}.
English Instructions:: CAPI INSTRUCTION: IF AUQ149 = 1, DISPLAY "hearing aid" IF AUQ149 = 2, DISPLAY "personal sound amplifier" IF AUQ149 = 3, DISPLAY "cochlear implant" IF AUQ149 = 1 AND AUQ149 = 2, DISPLAY "hearing aid and/or personal sound amplifier" IF AUQ149 = 1 AND AUQ.149 = 3, DISPLAY "hearing aid and/or cochlear implant" IF AUQ149 = 2 AND AUQ.149 = 3, DISPLAY "personal sound amplifier and/or cochlear implant" IF AUQ149 = 1 AND AUQ149 = 2 AND AUQ149 = 3, DISPLAY "hearing aid and/or personal sound amplifier and/or cochlear implant" READ CATEGORIES IF NECESSARY.
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative	Skip to Item
1	Less than 1 hour a day	10	10	AUQ435
2	1 to 3 hours a day	16	26	AUQ435
3	4 to 7 hours a day	32	58	AUQ435
4	8 or more hours per day	138	196	AUQ435
5	Never	19	215	AUQ435
7	Refused	0	215	AUQ435
9	Don't know	0	215	AUQ435
.	Missing	8682	8897

AUQ630 - Ever worn hearing aid/amplifier/implant

Variable Name:: AUQ630
SAS Label:: Ever worn hearing aid/amplifier/implant
English Text:: {Have you/Has SP} ever worn or used a hearing aid, a personal sound amplifier, or cochlear implant in the past?
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative
1	Yes	46	46
2	No	3092	3138
7	Refused	0	3138
9	Don't know	0	3138
.	Missing	5759	8897

AUQ435 - CHECK ITEM

Variable Name:: AUQ435
English Instructions:: BOX 4A. IF SP AGE >= 6 AND SP AGE <= 15 CONTINUE. OTHERWISE, GO TO AUQ101.
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 150 YEARS

AUQ440 - Ever had Special Ed/Early Intervention

Variable Name:: AUQ440
SAS Label:: Ever had Special Ed/Early Intervention
English Text:: Has SP ever received Special Education or Early Intervention Services for speech-language, reading, hearing or listening skills, intellectual disability, movement or mobility difficulties (e.g., using arms or legs), or other developmental or disability problems?
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 15 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative	Skip to Item
1	Yes	359	359
2	No	1356	1715	AUQ460
7	Refused	0	1715	AUQ460
9	Don't know	1	1716	AUQ460
.	Missing	7181	8897

AUQ450a - Had service for speech-language

Variable Name:: AUQ450a
SAS Label:: Had service for speech-language
English Text:: Which was it?
English Instructions:: INTERVIEWER INSTRUCTION: CODE ALL THAT APPLY HAND CARD AUQ2
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 15 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative
1	Speech-language	239	239
77	Refused	0	239
99	Don't know	0	239
.	Missing	8658	8897

AUQ450b - Had service for reading

Variable Name:: AUQ450b
SAS Label:: Had service for reading
English Text:: Which was it?
English Instructions:: INTERVIEWER INSTRUCTION: CODE ALL THAT APPLY HAND CARD AUQ2
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 15 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative	Skip to Item
2	Reading	155	155
.	Missing	8742	8897

AUQ450c - Had service for hearing/listening skills

Variable Name:: AUQ450c
SAS Label:: Had service for hearing/listening skills
English Text:: Which was it?
English Instructions:: INTERVIEWER INSTRUCTION: CODE ALL THAT APPLY HAND CARD AUQ2
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 15 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative	Skip to Item
3	Hearing or listening skills	38	38
.	Missing	8859	8897

AUQ450d - Had service for intellectual disability

Variable Name:: AUQ450d
SAS Label:: Had service for intellectual disability
English Text:: Which was it?
English Instructions:: INTERVIEWER INSTRUCTION: CODE ALL THAT APPLY HAND CARD AUQ2
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 15 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative	Skip to Item
4	Intellectual disability	48	48
.	Missing	8849	8897

AUQ450e - Had service for movement/mobility issues

Variable Name:: AUQ450e
SAS Label:: Had service for movement/mobility issues
English Text:: Which was it?
English Instructions:: INTERVIEWER INSTRUCTION: CODE ALL THAT APPLY HAND CARD AUQ2
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 15 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative	Skip to Item
5	Movement or mobility difficulties	42	42
.	Missing	8855	8897

AUQ450f - Had service for other disabilities

Variable Name:: AUQ450f
SAS Label:: Had service for other disabilities
English Text:: Which was it?
English Instructions:: INTERVIEWER INSTRUCTION: CODE ALL THAT APPLY HAND CARD AUQ2
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 15 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative	Skip to Item
6	Other developmental or disability problems	78	78
.	Missing	8819	8897

AUQ460 - Exposed to very loud noise 10+ hrs/wk

Variable Name:: AUQ460
SAS Label:: Exposed to very loud noise 10+ hrs/wk
English Text:: Has SP ever been exposed to very loud noise or music for 10 or more hours a week for a period of 3 months or longer? This is noise so loud {he/she has} to shout to be understood or heard 3 feet away.
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 15 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative	Skip to Item
1	Yes	31	31
2	No	1683	1714	End of Section
7	Refused	0	1714	End of Section
9	Don't know	2	1716	End of Section
.	Missing	7181	8897

AUQ470 - How long exposed to loud noise 10+hrs/wk

Variable Name:: AUQ470
SAS Label:: How long exposed to loud noise 10+hrs/wk
English Text:: How long has SP been exposed to very loud noise or music for 10 or more hours a week? This is noise so loud that {he/she has} to shout to be understood or heard 3 feet away.
English Instructions:: READ CATEGORIES IF NECESSARY
Target:: Both males and females 6 YEARS - 15 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative	Skip to Item
1	Less than 1 year	12	12	End of Section
2	1 to 2 years	5	17	End of Section
3	3 to 4 years	4	21	End of Section
4	5 or more years	9	30	End of Section
7	Refused	0	30	End of Section
9	Don't know	1	31	End of Section
.	Missing	8866	8897

AUQ101 - Difficult to follow conversation w/noise

Variable Name:: AUQ101
SAS Label:: Difficult to follow conversation w/noise
English Text:: How often {do you/does SP} have difficulty hearing and understanding if there is background noise, for example, when other people are talking, TV or radio is on, or children are playing? Would you say...
English Instructions:: HAND CARD AUQ3
Target:: Both males and females 16 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative
1	Always	128	128
2	Usually	199	327
3	About half the time	300	627
4	Seldom	532	1159
5	Never	475	1634
7	Refused	0	1634
9	Don't know	2	1636
.	Missing	7261	8897

AUQ110 - Hearing causes frustration when talking?

Variable Name:: AUQ110
SAS Label:: Hearing causes frustration when talking?
English Text:: How often does {your/SP's} hearing cause {you/him/her}to feel frustrated when talking to members of {your/his/her} family or to friends? Would you say...
English Instructions:: HAND CARD AUQ3
Target:: Both males and females 16 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative
1	Always	63	63
2	Usually	105	168
3	About half the time	159	327
4	Seldom	358	685
5	Never	949	1634
7	Refused	1	1635
9	Don't know	1	1636
.	Missing	7261	8897

AUQ480 - Avoid groups, limit social life?

Variable Name:: AUQ480
SAS Label:: Avoid groups, limit social life?
English Text:: How often does {your/SP's} hearing cause {you/him/her} to avoid groups of people, limiting or hampering {your/his/her} personal or social life? Would you say...
English Instructions:: HAND CARD AUQ3
Target:: Both males and females 16 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative
1	Always	33	33
2	Usually	47	80
3	About half the time	95	175
4	Seldom	221	396
5	Never	1237	1633
7	Refused	1	1634
9	Don't know	2	1636
.	Missing	7261	8897

AUQ490 - Problem with dizziness, lightheadedness?

Variable Name:: AUQ490
SAS Label:: Problem with dizziness, lightheadedness?
English Text:: During the past 12 months, {have you/has SP} had a problem with dizziness, lightheadedness, feeling as if {you are/s/he is} going to pass out or faint, unsteadiness or imbalance?
English Instructions:: INTERVIEWER INSTRUCTION: DO NOT INCLUDE TIMES WHEN DRINKING ALCOHOL.
Target:: Both males and females 16 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative
1	Yes	595	595
2	No	1038	1633
7	Refused	0	1633
9	Don't know	3	1636
.	Missing	7261	8897

AUQ191 - Ears ringing, buzzing past year?

Variable Name:: AUQ191
SAS Label:: Ears ringing, buzzing past year?
English Text:: In the past 12 months, {have you/has SP} been bothered by ringing, roaring, or buzzing in {your/his/her} ears or head that lasts for 5 minutes or more?
Target:: Both males and females 16 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative	Skip to Item
1	Yes	282	282
2	No	1352	1634	AUQ300
7	Refused	0	1634	AUQ300
9	Don't know	2	1636	AUQ300
.	Missing	7261	8897

AUQ250 - How long bothered by ringing, buzzing?

Variable Name:: AUQ250
SAS Label:: How long bothered by ringing, buzzing?
English Text:: How long {have you/has SP} been bothered by this ringing, roaring, or buzzing in {your/his/her} ears or head?
English Instructions:: READ CATEGORIES IF NECESSARY
Target:: Both males and females 16 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative
1	Less than three months	40	40
2	Three months to a year	40	80
3	1 to 4 years	51	131
4	5 to 9 years	35	166
5	Ten or more years	112	278
7	Refused	0	278
9	Don't know	4	282
.	Missing	8615	8897

AUQ255 - In past yr how often had ringing/roaring

Variable Name:: AUQ255
SAS Label:: In past yr how often had ringing/roaring
English Text:: In the past 12 months, how often {have you/has SP} had this ringing, roaring, or buzzing in {your/his/her} ears or head? Would you say...
Target:: Both males and females 16 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative
1	Almost always	111	111
2	At least once a day	41	152
3	At least once a week	42	194
4	At least once a month	27	221
5	Less frequently than once a month	59	280
7	Refused	0	280
9	Don't know	2	282
.	Missing	8615	8897

AUQ260 - Bothered by ringing after loud sounds?

Variable Name:: AUQ260
SAS Label:: Bothered by ringing after loud sounds?
English Text:: {Are you/Is SP} bothered by ringing, roaring, or buzzing in {your/his/her} ears or head only after listening to loud sounds or loud music?
Target:: Both males and females 16 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative
1	Yes	47	47
2	No	230	277
7	Refused	0	277
9	Don't know	5	282
.	Missing	8615	8897

AUQ270 - Bothered by ringing when going to sleep?

Variable Name:: AUQ270
SAS Label:: Bothered by ringing when going to sleep?
English Text:: {Are you/Is SP} bothered by ringing, roaring, or buzzing in {your/his/her} ears or head when going to sleep?
Target:: Both males and females 16 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative
1	Yes	92	92
2	No	189	281
7	Refused	0	281
9	Don't know	1	282
.	Missing	8615	8897

AUQ280 - How much of a problem is ringing?

Variable Name:: AUQ280
SAS Label:: How much of a problem is ringing?
English Text:: How much of a problem is this ringing, roaring, or buzzing in {your/his/her} ears or head? Would you say...
Target:: Both males and females 16 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative
1	No problem	76	76
2	A small problem	106	182
3	A moderate problem	78	260
4	A big problem	17	277
5	A very big problem	5	282
7	Refused	0	282
9	Don't know	0	282
.	Missing	8615	8897

AUQ500 - Discussed ringing with doctor?

Variable Name:: AUQ500
SAS Label:: Discussed ringing with doctor?
English Text:: {Have you/Has SP} ever discussed this ringing, roaring, or buzzing in {your/his/her} ears or head with {your/his/her} doctor or other health care professional?
Target:: Both males and females 16 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative
1	Yes	147	147
2	No	133	280
7	Refused	0	280
9	Don't know	2	282
.	Missing	8615	8897

AUQ300 - Ever used firearms for any reason?

Variable Name:: AUQ300
SAS Label:: Ever used firearms for any reason?
English Text:: This next question is about {your/SP's} use of firearms that {you/he/she} may have used for target shooting, hunting, for {your/his/her} job or in military service. {Have you/Has SP} ever used firearms for any reason?
Target:: Both males and females 16 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative	Skip to Item
1	Yes	646	646
2	No	989	1635	AUQ330
7	Refused	1	1636	AUQ330
9	Don't know	0	1636	AUQ330
.	Missing	7261	8897

AUQ310 - How many total rounds ever fired?

Variable Name:: AUQ310
SAS Label:: How many total rounds ever fired?
English Text:: How many total rounds {have you/has SP} ever fired?
English Instructions:: READ CATEGORIES IF NECESSARY. INTERVIEWER: ONE ROUND EQUALS ONE SHOT. INCLUDE TARGET SHOOTING, HUNTING, YOUR JOB AND MILITARY SERVICE.
Target:: Both males and females 16 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative
1	1 to less than 100 rounds	289	289
2	100 to less than 1000 rounds	154	443
3	1000 to less than 10,000 rounds	131	574
4	10,000 to less than 50,000 rounds	45	619
5	50,000 rounds or more	15	634
7	Refused	2	636
9	Don't know	10	646
.	Missing	8251	8897

AUQ320 - Wear hearing protection when shooting?

Variable Name:: AUQ320
SAS Label:: Wear hearing protection when shooting?
English Text:: How often {did you/did SP} wear hearing protection devices (ear plugs, ear muffs) when shooting firearms?
English Instructions:: HAND CARD AUQ1. INTERVIEWER: PROTECTIVE HEARING DEVICES INCLUDE PLUGS AND EARMUFFS.
Target:: Both males and females 16 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative
1	Always	154	154
2	Usually	56	210
3	About half the time	55	265
4	Seldom	69	334
5	Never	309	643
7	Refused	1	644
9	Don't know	2	646
.	Missing	8251	8897

AUQ330 - Ever had job exposure to loud noise?

Variable Name:: AUQ330
SAS Label:: Ever had job exposure to loud noise?
English Text:: These next questions are about noise exposure {you/SP} may have had at work. {Have you/Has SP} ever had a job, or combination of jobs where {you were/s/he was} exposed to loud sounds or noise for 4 or more hours a day, several days a week? (Loud means so loud that {you/s/he} must speak in a raised voice to be heard.)
Target:: Both males and females 16 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative	Skip to Item
1	Yes	485	485
2	No	1061	1546	AUQ370
3	Never worked	88	1634	AUQ370
7	Refused	0	1634	AUQ370
9	Don't know	2	1636	AUQ370
.	Missing	7261	8897

AUQ340 - How long exposed to loud noise at work

Variable Name:: AUQ340
SAS Label:: How long exposed to loud noise at work
English Text:: For how many months or years {have you/has SP} been exposed at work to loud sounds or noise for 4 or more hours a day, several days a week?
English Instructions:: READ CATEGORIES IF NECESSARY
Target:: Both males and females 16 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative
1	Less than 3 months	46	46
2	3 to 11 months	41	87
3	1 to 2 years	52	139
4	3 to 4 years	43	182
5	5 to 9 years	56	238
6	10 to 14 years	44	282
7	15 or more years	203	485
77	Refused	0	485
99	Don't know	0	485
.	Missing	8412	8897

AUQ350 - Ever exposed to very loud noise at work

Variable Name:: AUQ350
SAS Label:: Ever exposed to very loud noise at work
English Text:: In {your/SP's} work {were you/was he/was she} exposed to very loud noise? (Very loud noise is noise that is so loud {you have/he has/she has} to shout in order to be understood by someone standing 3 feet away from {you/him/her}.)
Target:: Both males and females 16 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative	Skip to Item
1	Yes	297	297
2	No	186	483	AUQ370
7	Refused	0	483	AUQ370
9	Don't know	2	485	AUQ370
.	Missing	8412	8897

AUQ360 - How long exposed to very loud noise?

Variable Name:: AUQ360
SAS Label:: How long exposed to very loud noise?
English Text:: This next question is about {your/SP's} work in jobs where there was very loud noise for 4 or more hours a day, several days a week. Please give me the total number of months or years for all jobs where this has happened.
English Instructions:: READ CATEGORIES IF NECESSARY
Target:: Both males and females 16 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative
1	Less than 3 months	18	18
2	3 to 11 months	21	39
3	1 to 2 years	31	70
4	3 to 4 years	30	100
5	5 to 9 years	43	143
6	10 to 14 years	20	163
7	15 or more years	132	295
8	Not exposed	0	295
77	Refused	0	295
99	Don't know	2	297
.	Missing	8600	8897

AUQ370 - Had off-work exposure to loud noise?

Variable Name:: AUQ370
SAS Label:: Had off-work exposure to loud noise?
English Text:: Outside of a job, {have you/has SP} ever been exposed to very loud noise or music for 10 or more hours a week? This is noise so loud that {you have/s/he has} to shout to be understood or heard 3 feet away. Examples are noise from power tools, lawn mowers, farm machinery, cars, trucks, motorcycles, motor boats or loud music.
Target:: Both males and females 16 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative	Skip to Item
1	Yes	185	185
2	No	1450	1635	AUQ380
7	Refused	0	1635	AUQ380
9	Don't know	1	1636	AUQ380
.	Missing	7261	8897

AUQ510 - How long exposed to loud noise 10+hrs/wk

Variable Name:: AUQ510
SAS Label:: How long exposed to loud noise 10+hrs/wk
English Text:: How long {have you/has SP} been exposed to very loud noise or music for 10 or more hours a week? This is noise so loud that {you have/s/he has} to shout to be understood or heard 3 feet away.
English Instructions:: READ CATEGORIES IF NECESSARY
Target:: Both males and females 16 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative
1	Less than 1 year	56	56
2	1 to 2 years	25	81
3	3 to 4 years	18	99
4	5 or more years	85	184
7	Refused	0	184
9	Don't know	1	185
.	Missing	8712	8897

AUQ380 - Past year: worn hearing protection?

Variable Name:: AUQ380
SAS Label:: Past year: worn hearing protection?
English Text:: In the past 12 months, how often did {you/SP} wear hearing protection devices (ear plugs, ear muffs) when exposed to very loud sounds or noise?
English Instructions:: INTERVIEWER INSTRUCTION: PLEASE INCLUDE BOTH ON THE JOB AND OFF THE JOB EXPOSURES. HAND CARD AUQ4
Target:: Both males and females 16 YEARS - 19 YEARS

Code or Value	Value Description	Count	Cumulative
1	Always	71	71
2	Usually	63	134
3	About half the time	36	170
4	Seldom	107	277
5	Never	987	1264
6	No noise exposure past 12 months	372	1636
77	Refused	0	1636
99	Don't know	0	1636
.	Missing	7261	8897

Appendix I


Topic	Target/Item	1999-2004	2005-2010	2011-2012 & 2015-2016	2017-2018
General hearing condition	Target Age	1+	1+	1+	1+
General hearing condition	General hearing condition	AUQ130	AUQ131	AUQ054	AUQ054
Specific hearing issues – all ages	Target Age	NA	NA	20-69	6-19 & 70+
	Hear a whisper from across a quiet room	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ060	AUQ060
	Hear normal voice across a quiet room	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ070	AUQ070
	Hear a shout from across a quiet room	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ080	AUQ080
	Hear if spoken loudly to in better ear	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ090	AUQ090
Specific hearing issues - adult	Target Age	NA	NA	20-69	16-19 & 70+
	Difficult to follow conversation w/noise	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ100	AUQ101
	Hearing causes frustration when talking	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ110	AUQ110
	Avoid groups, limit social life	Not Included	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ480
Age of hear loss diagnosis and cause	Target Age	NA	NA	NA	6-19 & 70+
	Age began to have hearing loss	Not Included	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ400
	Cause of hearing loss-Genetic/hereditary	Not Included	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ410A
	Cause of hearing loss-Ear infections	Not Included	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ410B
	Cause of hearing loss-Ear diseases	Not Included	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ410C
	Cause of hearing loss-Illness/infections	Not Included	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ410D
	Cause of hearing loss-Drugs/medications	Not Included	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ410E
	Cause of hearing loss-Head/neck injury	Not Included	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ410F
	Cause of hearing loss-Loud brief noise	Not Included	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ410G
	Cause of hearing loss-Long-term noise	Not Included	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ410H
	Cause of hearing loss-Aging	Not Included	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ410I
	Cause of hearing loss-Other	Not Included	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ410J
Ear infections and tubes	Target Age	NA	12-19	20+	6-19 & 70+
	Ever had ear infections or earaches	Not Included	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ420
	Ever had 3 or more ear infections	Not Included	AUQ136	AUQ136	AUQ430
	Ever had tube placed in ear	Not Included	AUQ138	AUQ138	AUQ139
Hearing testing	Target Age	20+	12+	20-69	6-19 & 70+
Hearing testing	Last time hearing tested by specialist	AUQ140	AUQ141	AUQ144	AUQ144
Use of hearing aids, amplifier, implants, or assistive listening devices	Target Age	20+	12+	20+	6-19 & 70+
	Ever worn hearing aid, amplifier, or implant	AUQ150^a	AUQ150^a	AUQ146^b & AUD148^b	AUQ630
	Now use hearing aid, amplifier, or implant	Not Included	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ147
	Now use a hearing aid	AUQ160	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ149A
	Now use a personal sound amplifier	Not Included	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ149B
	Now have a cochlear implant	Not Included	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ149C
	Worn hearing aid in past 12 months	AUQ170	Not Included	Not Included	Not Included
	How often worn hearing aid in past 12 months	AUQ180	Not Included	AUQ152^c	Not Included
	Worn hearing aid 5 hours a week in past 12 months	Not Included	AUQ171	Not Included	Not Included
	Past 2 weeks how often worn hearing aid	Not Included	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ153
	Ever used assistive listening devices	Not Included	AUQ185	AUQ154	AUQ156
Special education services - children	Target Age	NA	NA	NA	6-15
	Ever had special ed/early intervention	Not Included	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ440
	Had service for speech-language	Not Included	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ450A
	Had service for reading	Not Included	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ450B
	Had service for hearing/listening skills	Not Included	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ450C
	Had service for intellectual disability	Not Included	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ450D
	Had service for movement/mobility issues	Not Included	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ450E
	Had service for other disabilities	Not Included	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ450F
Noise exposure - children	Target Age	NA	NA	NA	6-15
	Exposed to very loud noise 10+ hrs/wk	Not Included	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ460
	How long exposed to loud noise 10+hrs/wk	Not Included	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ470
Associated physical conditions	Target Age	20+	12+	20-69	16-19 & 70+
	Problem with dizziness, lightheadedness?	Not Included	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ490
	Ears ringing, buzzing past year	AUQ190	AUQ191	AUQ191	AUQ191
	How long bothered by ringing, buzzing	Not Included	AUQ250	AUQ250	AUQ250
	In past yr how often had ringing/roaring	AUQ200	Not Included	AUQ255	AUQ255
	Bothered by ringing after loud sounds	Not Included	AUQ260	AUQ260	AUQ260
	Bothered by ringing when going to sleep	Not Included	AUQ270	AUQ270	AUQ270
	How much of a problem is ringing	Not Included	AUQ280	AUQ280	AUQ280
	Discussed ringing with doctor	Not Included	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ500
Noise exposure - adults	Target Age	20+	12+	20-69	16-19 & 70+
	Ever used firearms for any reason	AUQ210	AUQ211	AUQ300	AUQ300
	How many total rounds ever fired	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ310	AUQ310
	Wear hearing protection when shooting	AUQ220	Not Included	AUQ320	AUQ320
	Ever exposed to loud noise at work	Not Included	AUQ290	AUQ330/ AUQ331^d	AUQ330
	How long exposed to loud noise at work	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ340	AUQ340
	Ever exposed to very loud noise at work	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ350	AUQ350
	How long exposed to very loud noise at work	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ360/ AUQ361	AUQ360
	Had off-work exposure to very loud noise	AUQ230	AUQ231^d	AUQ370^d	AUQ370
	How long exposed to off-work very loud noise	Not Included	Not Included	Not Included	AUQ510
	Past year: worn hearing protection for both on the job and off the job noise exposures	Not Included	AUQ241	AUQ380^e	AUQ380
	Past year: worn hearing protection for noise outside of work	AUQ240	Not Included	AUQ381^f	Not Included

NOTES:
a: Only asked about hearing aid use.
b: Only asked about hearing aid/implant use.
c: Response categories differ from previous cycles.
d: Exposure definition changed from previous cycles.
e: Only collected in 2011-12 cycle.
f: Only collected in 2015-16 cycle.

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