EXPERTS are calling for greater awareness over the impact of excessive noise exposure – reminding Londoners how important it is to look after your ears in noisy environments, including those we encounter every day.

Excessive noise exposure is the main cause of preventable hearing impairment worldwide, accounting for more than a third of all cases of hearing loss in industrialised nations.[i] It’s estimated that over 11 million people are affected by some level of hearing loss in the UK alone.[ii]

Dr Rebecca Dewey, senior research fellow at the University of Nottingham, has teamed up with Specsavers to remind the public to look after their hearing health.

She is currently undertaking a major study investigating the long-term effects of noise exposure, and believes it is a serious public health issue.

Dr Dewey says: “Many people are frequently exposed to noise that’s dangerously loud, through both occupational and recreational activities, such as attending music events, using power tools, or even riding a motorbike, which could lead to temporary or even permanent hearing damage. Noise-induced hearing loss can significantly impact your quality of life – therefore excessive noise exposure is a serious public health issue that warrants more comprehensive investigation.”

Some of the most common sources of everyday noise exposure include live music, listening through earphones or headphones, sporting events, night life, DIY noise or engine noise[iii] – which typically involve exposures in excess of 87dB, the level at which repeated or long exposure can cause permanent hearing damage. However, these activities can sometimes involve exposures so far in excess of recommended safe levels, that damage can happen over relatively short periods of time.

In addition, noise exposure can damage more than just our hearing. Another major impact is sleep deprivation, which is linked to a wide range of health issues. According to the WHO, noise pollution can not only cause sleep disturbance, but also cause cardiovascular effects, poorer work and school performance, as well as hearing loss.[iv]

In response, Specsavers is urging all people to take action to prevent noise-induced hearing loss, by wearing hearing protection such as ear plugs in noisy environments, and to get their hearing tested regularly, especially if they’ve noticed a change in their hearing.

Research released earlier this year by Specsavers revealed almost one in three (29%) adults believe that working in noisy environments such as factories, clubs, or construction is to blame for their current hearing issues.[v] In a separate survey however, they also found two-thirds (65%) have never gone for a hearing test – despite 68% having experienced some symptoms which could indicate hearing difficulties.[vi]

Gordon Harrison, chief audiologist at Specsavers says: “Hearing loss affects people of all ages and unfortunately the longer we leave hearing issues, the worse they can become. That’s why it is so important to look after your hearing, by wearing hearing protection when exposed to excessive noise, as well as having regular hearing checks, which can help identify and manage hearing loss symptoms more effectively and minimise their long-term impact.

“I would always recommend wearing hearing protection when you think your hearing may be affected. The general rule is, the higher the volume, the less time you should be exposed to it.”

Gordon adds: “Everyone’s hearing is different. Age-related hearing loss is the most common, but we’re seeing more noise-induced impairment. If you have any concerns about your hearing, don’t wait any longer. Expert advice and support is available at Specsavers.’

If you’re worried about your hearing, or have experienced any hearing loss symptoms, visit your local Specsavers store to book a free hearing test. For more information visit https://www.specsavers.co.uk/hearing.