An academic study sheds light on the risks of hearing loss and tinnitus that video game players face and whose impact was previously unclear.
The question of hearing problems linked to the world of video games has been raised for years, and clearly, researchers seem to have found the beginning of an answer. Gamers could indeed suffer permanent hearing loss and tinnitus due to potentially dangerous sound levels. This is what emerges from a study published in BMJ Public Health, itself based on 14 previous reports, involving more than 50,000 people. And while players can turn down the volume, the high exposure time seems to be a key factor.
Risks of hearing loss linked to exposure time
According to the previous studies included, the prevalence of gaming ranged from 20 to 78%, with average sound levels often exceeding permitted limits. For example, four of the five studies focusing on the links between gaming and hearing loss reported significant associations. The researchers say there is now a need to raise awareness of the risks, and recommend educational and regulatory interventions.
While gamers obviously have the ability and freedom to reduce the volume during play, the study suggests that exposure duration is crucial. The World Health Organization (WHO) safety thresholds indicate that adults can listen to 80 dB for 40 hours per week without putting themselves at risk. But beyond this threshold, the safe exposure time decreases rapidly. Let’s imagine that in addition, certain shooting games reach noise levels sometimes reaching 88.5 or even 91.2 dB.
University researchers have also noticed that boys play more frequently and for longer than girls, and at higher volumes. For the authors, it becomes urgent to explore the impact of electronic sports, geographic region and age on these hearing risks.
The risk of hearing loss linked to gaming is real and calls for more awareness
Some studies examined date from the 1990s, and obviously, at that time, video games were not the ones we know today. The authors recognize the need for additional research to strengthen the links between gaming and hearing loss, particularly considering changing gaming practices.
The study also highlights the need for educational and awareness initiatives similar to those deployed for live music and headphones. Experts encourage the gaming industry to take responsibility and decide on measures to promote safe listening among gamers.
While evidence that games are harmful to gamers’ ears is limited, the study suggests that video games could be a common source of exposure to potentially damaging noise. Researchers call for immediate actions to raise awareness of the risks and promote healthier listening.
Source : BMJ Public Health
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