iPods hearing loss

Users of Apple's iPod should be cautious about hearing problems, according to one study. Results of research by the National Acoustic Laboratories are expected tommorrow from the Australian Federal Government, providing evidence that up to 25 percent of people caused by listening to their iPods at "excessive and damaging" levels. The research also predicts rising levels of tinnitus – ringing in the ears – and loss of hearing because people can't maintain "responsible" listening habits. The Minister for Ageing, Julie Bishop, advised people to turn down the volume of their MP3 players, according to The Sydney Morning Herald. About 20 percent of Australians over the age of 15 already have some degree of hearing difficulties, and consistent exposure to loud noises is the most common cause of hearing damage.

by MacNN Staff