Abstract
Objective: Music-induced hearing loss is a growing public health concern. Potential contributors include intentional exposure to loud music volume and lack of awareness about potential hearing damage. We wanted to evaluate current trends in music listening behaviors, perception of personal risk, and hearing loss education in 2 musically inclined demographics.
Method: An anonymous online 89-question survey instrument was made available to a convenience sample of visitors on both VH1.com and CMT.com Web sites. Respondents were queried about attitudes and behaviors related to hearing protection and noise exposure. A P < .05 value was used for independent t and z tests.
Results: Total respondents: 1601. The minority of respondents felt hearing loss created a personal problem (19%), yet 43% had experienced hearing related issues. Respondents under 21 displayed potentially more harmful listening behaviors and symptoms of hearing loss, particularly with MP3 player use (P < .05). Popular media was the most informative source about hearing loss; 56% learned about hearing loss on television, 36% on the Internet, and 29% in a magazine. Most respondents reported willingness to adopt ear protective behaviors if educated by a clinician (71%) or informed that even limited exposure to excessively loud music can cause permanent damage (69%).
Conclusion: Respondents 21 years old or younger reported significantly less education about potential hearing damage and were more likely to engage in riskier listening behavior. Healthcare providers retain significant ability to influence individual listening health and the media.
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