Patterns and perceived risks of personal auditory device use among medical students: a cross-sectional study

92% of students reported using PADs. A majority used them daily, with an average duration of nearly five hours. Many participants reported listening at high volumes and perceived ear and hearing health problems as a result. Notably, almost half of the users felt unable to discontinue their PAD use despite acknowledging potential adverse effects. There was a significant association between the daily duration of PAD use and the perception of adverse ear and hearing health effects. The continuous, prolonged, and high-intensity use of PADs among medical students is a significant issue that could escalate into a public health concern regarding ear and hearing health.