Gamers risk permanent hearing loss, study warns

If you’re a fan of video games, pay close attention. People who regularly play games risk hearing damage, a new study warns. The sound levels they are exposed to gamers potentially dangerous to the extent that it may cause permanent hearing loss or tinnitus – constant ringing in the ears.

Analysis based on review 14 investigations involving more than 50,000 people. Overall, the average sound levels tested were nearly or directly above healthy sound exposure limits, according to the study published in the journal BMJ Public Health.

There are two variables to consider regarding the risk of permanent hearing loss: sound intensity and time of exposure to sounds. gamers. The World Health Organization (WHO) notes that adults can safely tolerate noise levels of 80 decibels (dB) for 40 hours a week. This noise is equivalent to the sound of a doorbell. Above this level, the risk of hearing loss increases dramatically.

Adults, for example, should only be exposed to 85 dB for a maximum of four hours per week. If it is 90 dB, WHO guidelines set the limit to one hour and 15 minutes per week.

For children the thresholds are even lower. They can hear the sound 83 dB is safe for about 6.5 hours per week. The safe limit for 92 dB sound is 45 minutes, and for 98 dB sound it is only 12 minutes per week.

gamers They should turn down the volume or play less to avoid hearing loss.

gamers those who participated in these investigations played on average about three hours per week. And on the verge of a healthy limit. For example, one of the studies reviewed in the analysis found that average levels Headphone noise in four shooting games ranged from 88.5 to 91.2 dB.. Another found that impulsive sounds—short, loud explosions similar to gunshots—reached 119 dB.

Some of these studies have established a direct link between video games and hearing loss in children. gamers. Others have linked this action to tinnitus. These studies used self-report data and tests to assess hearing.

The analysis also found that three separate studies found that Boys played video games more often than girls. They were exposed to higher volumes for longer periods of time, making them more vulnerable to possible hearing loss.

“The data collected in this review suggests that games are a likely source of insecure eavesdropping,” the researchers said. “Interventions such as initiatives aimed at education and awareness of potential risks need to be prioritized,” they add.

The team acknowledges, however, that data on hearing loss in gamers is very limited and new research efforts need to be undertaken. Some of the studies reviewed date back to the 1990s. cybersport, geographic region, gender and age. In the meantime, just in case, turn down the volume.