Young music fans who regularly attend live shows ignoring risk of hearing loss

Young people who regularly go to live music events are at risk of suffering permanent hearing loss, a charity has warned.

A survey of 2,000 adults found that more than half of respondents aged between 18 and 28 reported hearing loss, the ear-ringing condition tinnitus or both after attending a festival, gig or going to a nightclub.

The report by the Royal National Institute For Deaf People (RNID) warns that while these symptoms are normally temporary, long-term exposure can cause permanent damage.

Despite three-quarters of respondents being aware of a risk of hearing damage when exposed to noisy venues, 35 per cent said they do not plan to wear hearing protection such as earplugs at live music events this year.

More than 18 million people in the UK are thought to be either deaf, hard of hearing or suffer from tinnitus.

Research shows that prolonged exposure to sounds louder than 85 decibels – roughly the same as a food blender – can trigger hearing damage. However, the music at many live venues and nightclubs can often reach more than 100 decibels.

Experts say that more than 15 minutes of exposure to noise this loud will likely lead to some level of permanent hearing loss.

The RNID has also warned that young people are more likely to be exposed to unsafe levels of noise through headphones.

Those who wear headphones in the presence of background noise, such as during a commute, are most at risk. The charity says this risk can be reduced by ensuring the volume is below 60 per cent.

Franki Oliver, audiology manager at RNID, said: 'There is growing concern that headphone use, both by over-ear headphones and in-ear buds, could risk permanent damage, especially if people aren't aware of the risks.'