The prevalence of ear, nose and throat problems in the community: Results from a national cross-sectional postal survey in Scotland

Abstract

Objective. To assess the prevalence of ear, nose and throat (ENT) symptoms experienced by individuals living in Scotland, and their use of GP or hospital services for these problems. Methods. A cross-sectional postal self-completed questionnaire was sent to a random sample of 12 100 households throughout Scotland. 15 788 individuals aged 14+ years living in the 7244 households who returned the questionnaire (adjusted response rate 64.2%) participated in the study. Results. Roughly a fifth of respondents reported currently having hearing difficulties, including difficulty following conversations when there is background noise and hearing problems causing worry or upset; few wore a hearing aid..