Estimation of Prevalence of Hyperacusis in High School Students of Mysore District.

Objective: Hyperacusis, characterized by an abnormal sensitivity to everyday sounds, is a condition associated with subjective distress and physiological changes in the auditory system. Prevalence rates have varied significantly worldwide, emphasizing the need for standardized criteria. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of hyperacusis among high school students in Mysore district and explore gender differences. Methods: A diverse cohort of 597 high school students participated in this cross-sectional study. The Modified Khalfa Hyperacusis Questionnaire assessed hyperacusis symptoms. Demographic data included age, gender, and educational status. A cut-off score of 28 on the questionnaire identified hyperacusis cases. Data were analyzed descriptively. Results: The study revealed a substantial hyperacusis prevalence of 17.25% among high school students in the Mysore district. Out of 103 identified cases, 43.69% were females, and 56.31% were males. These results suggest a potential gender disparity in hyperacusis prevalence. The study's findings highlight the high prevalence of hyperacusis among Indian high school students, emphasizing the need for attention to this issue in adolescent health. Gender differences observed in this study align with previous research, indicating a higher prevalence among males. Conclusions: Hyperacusis is a prevalent condition among Indian high school students, warranting further research on its causes and co-occurrence across different age groups. These findings underscore the significance of addressing hyperacusis as a critical health concern among adolescents and emphasize the need for tailored interventions and increased awareness.

Estimation of Prevalence of Misophonia Among High School Students in India.

Objective: Misophonia, an intriguing psychological disorder is characterized by intense emotional responses to specific sounds produced by others, has gained prominence for its distinct attributes and profound impact on individuals' emotional and psychological well-being. This study addresses the scarcity of research on misophonia's prevalence and severity among high school students, aiming to shed light on the unique challenges faced by this demographic in India. Methods: The study enrolled 597 high school students, including 269 females and 328 males, aged 14 to 16, with no history of psychological or otological problems or medication use. The Misophonia Assessment Questionnaire questionnaire, consisting of 21 questions with a 4-point Likert scale response, assessed emotional and behavioral reactions to sensitive sounds. Participants' scores categorized them as Sub-clinical, Mild, Moderate, or Severe misophonia. Results: The prevalence of misophonia was 34.67% among high school students, with 52.65% categorized as Mild, 45.41% as Moderate, and 1.93% as severe misophonia. A comparison with a similar study on college students in India revealed a higher prevalence of misophonia among high school students. This discrepancy may relate to adolescents' vulnerable psychological states, marked by limited emotional regulation and significant life transitions. Conclusions: This study significantly contributes to the evolving understanding of misophonia by spotlighting its prevalence and severity among high school students in India. The findings underscore the necessity of recognizing and addressing misophonia's impact during adolescence, a crucial developmental phase.