One in ten 30-year-olds will need hearing aids by 2020. That’s the stark message being sent out by health group the Cubex Hearing Centre, which blames iPods and other personal music players, as well as loud concerts for the problem.
The organisation is organising a series of events in central London next week in an attempt to persuade young people to change their listening habits before it’s too late, and they end up with tinnitus or hearing loss, which usually isn’t reversible.
From 26th – 30th April, Cubex will be measuring the level at which people use their iPods/MP3s with the help of Ed and Edwina (two ‘interactive acoustic mannequins’, whatever they are) and offering guidance on hearing protection and hearing loss, as well as tips on how to enjoy music without putting your hearing at risk, free earplugs and free hearing tests.
Ironically, there’s also a prize draw to win an iPod touch, with Sennheiser noise cancelling headphones and custom-made ear plugs.
Adam Shulberg, Cubex Managing Director, said: “Cubex is urging people to be aware of the risks to hearing from over exposure to loud music in clubs, at concerts and from their iPods/MP3s so they can continue to enjoy their favourite music.”