by Daniel Fink, MD, Chair, The Quiet Coalition
This report from New Zealand states that loud music is just as addictive as smoking.
The only quibble I have with the report is that it states that hearing loss begins at an 85 decibel exposure and that 85 decibels is a safe volume limit for children. Neither statement is correct. Both I and the NIOSH Science Blog have written about how the 85 decibel standard is an occupational standard that should not be used a a safe noise exposure standard for the general public.
But the basic premise of the report--that noise exposure from personal music player use by children is causing hearing loss--is sound.
So break the habit, and lower the volume. Your ears will thank you.
