A new study by Eargym https://www.eargym.world/  has revealed that a quarter of people aged between 16 to 35 have early signs of hearing loss. 

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Of the 16-35 year olds tested, 24% were categorised as having hearing loss, with a further 19% having ‘possible’ hearing loss. Overall, hearing loss or possible hearing loss was detected in just under half of 16-35 year olds. 

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The study also revealed that nearly half (47 percent) of 16-35 year olds have a hearing age that is older than their biological age, with an average difference of 13 years. 

A further half said their hearing ability is impacting their quality of life.

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The data supports ongoing concerns from the World Health Organisation  that billions of young people are at increased risk of hearing loss due to prolonged use of earbuds and headphones, as well as regular exposure to loud music at gigs.

Amanda Philpott, CEO of Eargym stated about the findings “Hearing loss is an emerging crisis for young people... it’s particularly concerning to see an unexpected number of young people worried about their hearing and showing signs of hearing difficulties.”

“The good news is: hearing loss is preventable, and we can take proactive steps to look after and improve our hearing at any age.”

She adds, “The only way to understand what’s going on with our hearing is to test it regularly, so we notice when it changes. Safe listening practices, such as the use of ear defenders, earplugs and noise-cancelling headphones, can make the world of difference when it comes to protecting our hearing health long into our futures.”

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