People may often be cautious about the impact of loud noises on a child’s health, however, the use of headphones and earbuds introduces a challenge for parents to monitor the noise levels their children are exposed to.
Researchers from a recent national poll advise parents to be aware of potential health risks linked to extended use of audio devices, as their findings indicate a notable increase in usage among children.
According to the University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health, 2 in 3 parents say their child uses headphones or earbuds. Among those children using headphones or earbuds, 16% use their audio devices for at least 2 hours a day, while 24% listen to them for one to two hours.
A higher percentage of parents with children between the age of 9-12 years (79%) report their child using headphones or earbuds compared to parents with children aged 5-8 years (53%).
“Over recent years we’ve mostly been concerned about teens overusing audio devices. But earbuds have become increasingly popular and prevalent among younger kids, exposing them to more intense noise on a regular basis,” said Dr. Susan Woolford, co-director of the Mott poll.
“Noise exposure risks to young children have historically involved loud singular events like concerts or fireworks, but parents may underestimate the potential harm from excessive use of listening devices. It may be difficult to know whether their child’s exposure to noise is healthy,” Woolford cautioned.
The results of the poll show that only half of parents tried to limit their child’s usage of audio devices, using strategies such as asking the child to take a break or keeping set hours or timers while using them.
Researchers warn about the potential negative health hazards associated with noise exposure, including the risk of sleep disruption, heightened stress levels, and potential hearing loss.
“Noise exposure among children can affect their sleep, academic learning, language…
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