One Billion Young People at Risk of Hearing Loss from Loud Music

More than one billion young people risk damaging their hearing through listening to loud music, revealed the World Health Organization (WHO). The UN agency estimates that 360 million people suffer from hearing loss worldwide, and apart from noise related causes and aging, it is also brought on by infectious diseases, genetic conditions, complications at birth, and use of certain drugs. The WHO considers a volume above 85 decibels for eight hours or 100 decibels for 15 minutes as unsafe. It estimates that around half of those between the ages of 12 to 35 in middle- and high-income countries are at risk due to unsafe levels of sound on personal audio devices or smartphones, while another 40 percent are at risk from damaging audio levels at concert venues and night clubs.

Shelley Chadha, a WHO specialist on hearing impairment, said, "More and more young people are exposed to unsafe levels of sounds. Young people should be aware that once you lose your hearing, it won't come back."

To counter the risks, the WHO recommends that personal audio devices should not be used for more than one hour per day, at reduced sound levels. The use of ear plugs in loud conditions and regular ear check ups were part of the recommendations as well. The WHO also wants governments to play a role by imposing strict regulations on noise made in public places.

Source-Medindia