KEY POINTS:
New research shows seven out of 10 under 30 year olds are experiencing symptoms of permanent hearing damage after listening to loud music.
The study by the National Foundation for the Deaf showed just six per cent bothered to take precautions against loud music.
The foundation said the young people had symptoms including dullness of hearing and ringing in the ears (tinnitus) - both early signs of irreversible hearing damage.
The results of the study of 10000 New Zealanders was released to mark the start of the foundation's Deaf Awareness Week with the message: "Don't Lose the Music".
Foundation executive manager Marianne Schumacher said New Zealanders were being encouraged to look after their ears now so they could enjoy music - and other sounds they love - forever.
"This research confirms our concerns that the MP3 generation is facing a hearing epidemic," said Ms Schumacher.
"Hearing loss through over-exposure to noise develops so slowly and insidiously that we often don't know it's happened until it's too late.
"The most frustrating thing for us is that it is preventable, and the precautions people can take are simple and easy to adopt."
The foundation is urging music lovers wear reusable earplugs at clubs and concerts that would will reduce the volume but not the quality of music.
People should also stand away from loud speakers in clubs and try to spend some time in quieter zones to give ears a break.
The foundation advises people with MP3 players to turn down the volume by a notch and avoid using the volume to drown out background noise.
The research showed that of the under-30 year olds with hearing problems, listening to loud music was given as the number one cause.
"We want to ensure people take sensible precautions now so they can enjoy the sounds they love forever," said Ms Schumacher."
New Zealand musicians including Dave Dobbyn, Mike Chunn, Hollie Smith, members of Salmonella Dub and members of Goldenhorse are endorsing the Don't Lose the Music campaign.
- NZPA
