Patterns and perceived risks of personal auditory device use among medical students: a cross-sectional study

The World Health Organization estimates that 1.1 billion people are at risk of developing noise-induced hearing loss from the unsafe use of Personal Auditory Devices (PADs). The use of these devices has grown exponentially, placing young adults at high risk of recreational NIHL and other ear-related health problems. This study aimed to explore PAD usage patterns among medical students, identify perceived ear and hearing health problems, and analyse the association between usage patterns and these issues.

92% of students reported using PADs. A majority used them daily, with an average duration of nearly five hours. Many participants reported listening at high volumes and perceived ear and hearing health problems as a result. Notably, almost half of the users felt unable to discontinue their PAD use despite acknowledging potential adverse effects. There was a significant association between the daily duration of PAD use and the perception of adverse ear and hearing health effects. The continuous, prolonged, and high-intensity use of PADs among medical students is a significant issue that could escalate into a public health concern regarding ear and hearing health.