Hearing loss among adolescents is a growing concern. Exposure to loud music via personal MP3 players is one of the important risk behaviours. What can be done about this? To explore the potential determinants of engaging in such music-listening behaviour and possible intervention strategies to change such behaviours, Ineke Vogel conducted a series of studies, combining quantitative and qualitative research among adolescents as well as potential ‘intermediaries’ for preventive interventions. One of her studies was recently published in the journal Pediatrics.
In order to identify parties involved in the prevention of MP3-induced hearing loss among adolescents and potentially effective prevention strategies and interventions, thirty experts in fields such as scientific research, medical practice, community health professions, education, youth work, music entertainment, and enforcement authorities participated in a qualitative, electronic, 3-round, Web-based Delphi study.
Multiple parties involved in the prevention of MP3-induced hearing loss among adolescents were identified; the most relevant are the adolescents themselves, their parents, manufacturers of MP3 players and earphones, and governmental authorities. The experts did not expect that adolescents in general would perform the necessary protective behaviours to prevent MP3-induced hearing loss. Two environmental health protection measures were identified as both relevant and feasible to be implemented. The authors conclude that authorities, the music industry in general, and especially manufacturers of MP3 players and earphones should recognize their responsibility and create a safer MP3-listening environment by taking measures to protect today's youth from the dangers of listening to high-volume music on MP3 players.
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