How loud is too loud?

This review paper sheds light on a growing concern: recreational noise exposure can pose hearing-loss risks similar to those seen in occupational settings, from concerts and sports events to festivals and personal listening devices. While most people associate noise-induced hearing loss with loud workplaces, the authors highlight that our ears respond to sound energy, not the source, meaning “fun” noise can be just as harmful as workplace noise when exposure is high.

By examining existing standards and scientific models, the study suggests that maintaining sound levels around ~75–80 dB on average can significantly reduce risk for most adults, even in leisure environments. These findings emphasize the importance of awareness, smarter listening habits, and protective strategies so we can continue enjoying music and entertainment without compromising long-term hearing health.

This paper is available to read for free below, on CDC Stacks (shttps://stacks.cdc.gov/view/cdc/223488), and through The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America (JAMA, https://pubs.aip.org/asa/jasa/article/146/5/3911/995390/Risk-of-noise-induced-hearing-loss-due-to).

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