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Nine out of 10 young people show signs of hearing damage after a night spent listening to loud music at a club or pub, a British survey shows.
The RNID, a charity representing nine million people who are deaf or hard of hearing, said those affected suffered from ringing in their ears or dullness of hearing and yet did nothing to prevent it.
Audiences at rock concerts can be exposed to 125 decibels - compared with 110 decibels from a pneumatic drill.
Chief executive John Low urged the Government to set a recommended noise exposure level for audiences attending music venues.
"We're all familiar with messages about practising safe sex and using sunscreen," Dr Low said. "But the lack of any guidance on loud music means this generation of music lovers could be facing a hearing loss timebomb."
More than half of the 1381 people surveyed said they visited a bar each week where they had to shout to be heard over the music.The RNID said people should consider wearing special ear plugs, take five-minute breaks from the noise and stand well clear of speakers.
- Reuters
