An Application-Based Hearing Assessment Among Medical Students Using Personal Listening Devices in a Private Medical College in South Chennai

Personal listening devices (PLD) like headphones and ear buds have become ubiquitous in our daily lives. Unfortunately, recreational noise-induced hearing loss (RNIHL) caused by over exposure to loud noise is gradual, without warning signs and irreversible, making prevention paramount. Addressing hearing loss remains crucial among the young population, especially the medical professionals. The study aims to estimate the prevalence of hearing impairment using a smartphone-based tool among medical students, analyze the difference in hearing acuity between noise-canceling and indigenous earphone users, and explore attitudes related to hearing, hearing loss, and hearing protection among university students. This cross-sectional study was conducted among medical students using PLD. A sample size of 295 was studied using the WHO Hear app and a self-administered questionnaire. A stratified random sampling method was used. Data analysis was performed using MS Excel and Epi info A total of 64% were found to use PLD for both recreation and education purposes. A total of 26.7% of them were likely to be having hearing loss, and 43.3% should be screened regularly for hearing impairment. A statistically significant association was found between smokers, family history, etc. This study introduces the applicability of the new technology in an Indian setting where hearing healthcare is facing challenges.