Recent research analyzing over 50,000 individuals indicates that sound levels associated with video games often reach or surpass permissible safe limits, raising concerns about potential risks to hearing health. The study, conducted by researchers, emphasizes the need for greater public health efforts to raise awareness of these potential dangers.
While previous attention has been given to unsafe sound levels from headphones, earbuds, and music venues, video games, including e-sports, have received relatively little scrutiny in terms of their impact on hearing loss.
Gamers, known for playing at high-intensity sound levels for extended periods, pose a substantial concern given the global prevalence of gaming, with an estimated 3 billion gamers worldwide in 2022.
To establish an evidence base, researchers examined 14 peer-reviewed studies from nine countries, encompassing a total of 53,833 participants. The studies covered various aspects, including the associations between hearing and computer or video games, gaming centers, and mobile devices.
Reported sound levels ranged from 43.2 decibels (dB) for mobile devices to 80-89 dB in gaming centers, with some instances of impulse sounds reaching as high as 119 dB during gameplay.
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the World Health Organization's guidelines describe a time–intensity trade-off, indicating a decrease in permissible exposure time with increasing noise levels. This is particularly relevant for children, with specific permissible noise exposure levels defined.
Some studies reported associations between gaming and self-reported hearing loss, hearing thresholds, or tinnitus, highlighting potential health risks. Additionally, one study estimated that over 10 million people in the USA might be exposed to 'loud' or 'very loud' sound levels from video or computer games.
Further investigations revealed that daily sound exposure from video games could be close to the maximum permissible levels, potentially placing gamers at risk of permanent hearing loss or tinnitus.
Despite acknowledging limitations in the available data, such as the inclusion of studies dating back to the early 1990s, the researchers stress the need for preventive measures and global policy initiatives. Key gaps in evidence, including the impact of esports, geographic region, sex, and age on hearing loss, highlight the importance of further research to inform public health interventions.
In light of these findings, the researchers suggest prioritizing initiatives focused on education and awareness to promote safe listening practices among gamers.
The World Health Organization 'Make listening safe' initiative aims to ensure everyone can protect their hearing while listening. More information can be found here.
