Assessment of the impact on health associated with earphone usage among medical students: a questionnaire-based cross-sectional study

Background: The use of earphones has become ubiquitous, especially among medical students, due to their utility in academic and recreational activities. However, prolonged and improper usage has raised concerns about auditory and systemic health effects. This study examines earphone usage patterns and their associated health impacts among medical students in Mumbai, India. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 747 MBBS students using a structured online questionnaire. Participants provided data on earphone usage patterns, hygiene practices, and health outcomes. Statistical analysis, including logistic regression, was performed to identify risk factors for adverse health effects, with a significance level of p<0.05. Results: All participants reported regular earphone use, with Bluetooth earphones being preferred by 62.7%. Adverse auditory outcomes were reported by 89.3%, including ear pain (48.3%) and tinnitus (43.1%). Systemic effects such as headaches (68%) and blood pressure changes (47.1%) were prevalent, with wired earphone users at higher risk. Psychological impacts included reduced memory recall (30%) and mental fatigue (49.1%). The 58.2% of participants were found to clean their earphones. Conclusions: Earphone usage among medical students is associated with significant auditory, systemic, and psychological health impacts. Promoting safe listening practices, including limiting usage duration and prioritizing hygiene, is essential. Further longitudinal studies are warranted to establish causation and to develop evidence-based interventions.