Assessment of Hearing in Medical Students with Exposure to Personal Audio Devices

Background: The prevalence of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) among youth is rising, largely attributed to the growing use of personal audio devices (PADs). Unsafe listening behaviors and inadequate awareness contribute significantly to this public health challenge. Objectives: This study aimed to estimate hearing impairment among medical students exposed to PADs, identify high-risk listening patterns, and evaluate knowledge regarding safe practices. Methods: In a cross-sectional survey in a Tertiary Care Centre at Puducherry, 224 third and fourth year students were recruited. Structured questionnaires assessed demographic data, listening habits, device type, duration, and awareness. Pure tone audiometry (PTA) measured hearing thresholds. Results: Over 90% of students demonstrated at least mild sensorineural hearing loss (bone conduction threshold ≥5 dB), with risk elevated in males, senior students, and those with prolonged, high-volume exposure. Most participants (>58%) exceeded recommended daily use. In-ear earphones predominated, while awareness of safe listening standards was poor. Conclusions: The findings reveal an urgent need for routine screening, curriculum-based education, and policy interventions to limit preventable NIHL among young adults.