A systematic review and meta-analysis published in Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery has found that musicians are at a greater risk of developing tinnitus, hearing loss, and hyperacusis compared to non-musicians. The study combined data from 67 studies, which included more than 28,000 musicians from 21 countries.
According to the findings, 42.6% of musicians reported experiencing tinnitus, while only 13.2% of people in control groups reported the same condition. Hearing loss was present in 25.7% of musicians, compared to 11.6% among controls. Hyperacusis was noted by 37.3% of musicians versus 15.3% in non-musicians.
Of those musicians who experienced tinnitus, most (76.3%) described their symptoms as occasional rather than permanent; only 15.6% said their tinnitus was constant. Regarding hearing loss, about 63% of cases were self-reported by musicians and only around 37% were confirmed through audiometric testing, indicating that actual rates may be underreported.
The research also found no significant difference in the prevalence rates of these conditions between classical and pop/rock musicians, suggesting that factors other than genre—such as instrument played, seating position during performances, room acoustics, and use of hearing protection—may have a larger impact on auditory health risks.
"
