Source: WHO.

The World Health Organization (WHO) cautions that over a billion adolescents and young adults risk noise-induced hearing loss. This danger stems from unsafe listening practices with personal audio devices like smartphones and exposure to high sound levels at entertainment venues, including sporting events.

WHO analysis of data from developed and developing nations reveals that nearly half of teenagers and young adults aged 12-35 experience unsafe sound levels from personal audio devices. Additionally, about 40% are subjected to potentially harmful sound levels at entertainment venues. Examples of unsafe sound levels include exposure exceeding 85 decibels (dB) for eight hours or 100dB for 15 minutes.

Dr. Etienne Krug, WHO Director for the Department of Management of Noncommunicable Diseases, Disability, Violence and Injury Prevention, emphasizes, “Increasingly, young people are putting themselves at risk of hearing loss while engaging in everyday activities they enjoy. It’s crucial to understand that hearing loss is irreversible. By adopting simple preventive measures, individuals can continue enjoying themselves without jeopardizing their hearing.”

Safe listening hinges on factors like sound intensity (loudness), duration of exposure, and listening frequency. Exposure to loud sounds can cause temporary hearing loss or tinnitus, a ringing sensation in the ear. Prolonged or regular exposure to high sound levels can permanently damage the ear’s sensory cells, leading to irreversible hearing loss.
WHO recommendations

The WHO recommends a maximum workplace noise exposure level of 85 dB for up to eight hours daily. Since sporting events often expose attendees to louder sounds, they should minimize their exposure duration. For instance, exposure to 100 dB, typical in such settings, is safe for a maximum of 15 minutes.

Music enthusiasts can safeguard their hearing by reducing the volume on personal audio devices. When attending loud events, they should wear earplugs. Using properly fitted and, ideally, noise-canceling earphones/headphones is also advised. Limiting exposure time by taking listening breaks and restricting daily personal audio device use to under an hour can help. Smartphone apps can assist in monitoring safe listening levels. Lastly, individuals should watch for signs of hearing loss and get regular hearing checkups.

The WHO urges governments to implement and enforce legislation on recreational noise and raise awareness about hearing loss risks through public information campaigns. They also recommend that manufacturers incorporate safety features into personal audio devices and provide safe listening information on products and packaging.

In observance of International Ear Care Day on March 3rd, the WHO is launching the “Make Listening Safe” initiative. This initiative aims to highlight the dangers of unsafe listening and promote safer practices.

Globally, 360 million people currently experience moderate to profound hearing loss. This condition arises from various factors, including noise, genetics, birth complications, infections, chronic ear infections, certain medications, and aging. It is estimated that half of all hearing loss cases are preventable. To combat this issue, the WHO gathers data on hearing loss to understand its prevalence, causes, impact, and potential prevention and management strategies. They support countries in developing and integrating hearing care programs into primary healthcare systems. Additionally, the WHO provides resources for training healthcare professionals in this field.