Other Exposures and Medical Conditions

Hearing Loss
Hearing loss is a very important consequence of farming.  The majority of older farmers have evidence 
of noise-induced hearing loss.  This can cause social isolation and is often not looked for by the 
clinician.  A high index of suspicion and screening with an audiogram is recommended.  Farming is a 
noisy occupation and many activities are associated with high noise levels including:
  o  Hog confinement at feeding - up to 115 decibels (dB)
  o  Tractor idling
  o  Grain augers
  o  Chopping silage, blowing compressor
  o  Fans in animal confinement
  o  Tractor at 80% load-100 dB
  o  Combine harvesting at full throttle -110 dB
  o  Chain saws 

Hearing protection should be used around any noise source above 90 decibels. Prevention consists 
of personal hearing protection, decreasing noise production by proper maintenance, and increasing 
the distance between the person and source of noise.  Prevention of hearing loss should 
begin in adolescence.

Dermatitis
The skin is the body organ that is most commonly exposed to agricultural toxins.  These include 
infectious microorganisms, chemicals, and solar exposure.  Allergic and irritant contact 
dermatitis can occur from acute and chronic exposure to pesticides, solvents, feed additives, 
animal antibiotics, grease, and grain dust.  Heat and sweating increase the skin absorption of 
agricultural chemicals.  Allergic conditions can also occur from exposure to animals.  Allergic and 
irritant skin dermatitis can only be differentiated by patch testing.  Material safety data sheets 
(MSDS) can be very helpful in determining whether a chemical is known to be a potential sensitizer.  
Many dermatologists are experienced in patch testing but an accurate occupational history by 
the rural practitioner is also essential in making the diagnosis.

Skin and lip cancer are more common in farmers.  Chronic solar exposure can lead to cataracts, pre-
malignant to malignant skin changes.  A yearly 5-minute above the waist exam can identify lesions 
that need further evaluation.  Clothing, including hats with wide brims, adequate sunglasses with 
UVA and UVB protection, and sun block are all essential for protection against solar radiation effects.