A recent study published in Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, the journal of the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery Foundation (AAO-HNSF), has found that by age 18, 12.9% of adolescents show signs of probable noise-induced hearing damage and 6.2% experience sensorineural hearing loss.
The research was part of the Generation R Study, a large birth cohort from Rotterdam, Netherlands, which tracked 3,347 adolescents with standardized hearing tests at ages 13 and 18. Although overall rates of hearing loss remained relatively stable over five years, bilateral hearing notches became more frequent. Among those who already had high-frequency hearing loss at age 13, further deterioration was observed by age 18.
“Our longitudinal study shows that while the overall prevalence of hearing loss in adolescents remains relatively stable from ages 13 to 18, the severity of both sensorineural and noise-induced hearing loss increases over time,” said Stefanie N. H. Reijers, MD, corresponding author from Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam. “These findings highlight the importance of early monitoring and prevention, as even mild changes in hearing during adolescence may have long-term consequences.”
Researchers used audiometric testing to identify patterns linked to noise exposure such as distinctive notches in hearing thresholds—a typical sign of noise-induced damage. Sources contributing to this include personal music players, gaming devices, and loud venues.
Noise-induced hearing loss occurs when loud sounds damage inner ear hair cells responsible for transmitting sound signals to the brain. These cells cannot regenerate once damaged. The AAO-HNSF notes that up to 17% of teens aged 12-19 display features suggesting noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) in one or both ears.
Prolonged exposure to sounds above 85 decibels can result in temporary or permanent damage. Devices like portable music players often play at about 100 dB; concerts can reach between 90 and 122 dB; other sources such as fireworks or sirens may exceed these levels.
Adolescent hearing loss can affect communication skills, academic performance, cognitive development, social interaction, quality of life, and may increase risk for age-related decline later on. Early symptoms are subtle—typically impacting high-pitched sounds first—and can progress without noticeable volume changes but reduced sound clarity.
The authors stress increased awareness among parents and youth about everyday risks is essential since most cases are preventable with proper intervention strategies such as regular screenings during adolescence.
They call for further studies into specific recreational noise sources and why some youths are more susceptible than others.
More information is available through resources such as ENThealth.org’s articles on Noise Induced Hearing Loss in Children and Your Ear Gear and Hearing Health, along with educational videos on understanding NIHL in children.
The full study appears in the December 2025 issue of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery.
