Recreational noise from clubhouses and parties has emerged as a contributor to hearing loss, according to medical experts marking World Hearing Day.
Health professionals are raising concerns as many people remain unaware of the risks associated with prolonged exposure to loud music in social settings.
An Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) consultant, Dr. John Babarinde of the Oyo State Hospitals Management Board, identified the rising exposure to recreational noise from clubhouses and parties as an emerging cause of hearing loss.
He shared these insights while speaking with newsmen in Ibadan on Monday to mark World Hearing Day.
According to the ENT surgeon, the leading causes of hearing loss in adults include excessive noise exposure, the use of ototoxic drugs, ear infections, and earwax impaction.
He added that other contributing factors include ear trauma, aging, hereditary conditions, and poorly managed chronic diseases like diabetes.
He also highlighted that childhood hearing loss could result from congenital anomalies of the ear, chronic ear infections, and perinatal complications such as birth asphyxia and low birth weight.
He said, “Infections like measles and meningitis can also bring about childhood hearing loss.”
Reiterating the theme of this year’s World Hearing Day, “Changing mindsets: Empower yourself, Make Ear and Hearing Care a Reality for All,” Babarinde described it as a powerful call to action.
He said, “Despite the increasing burden of hearing loss, ear and hearing care remain underprioritized in many African countries. Individuals and communities are, therefore, encouraged to take charge of their hearing health by adopting preventive measures and advocating for better access to care.
“If hearing loss is not addressed on time, it can hinder speech development, academic progress, and economic opportunities. Hearing loss can ultimately lead to social isolation, stigmatization, and a reduced quality of life.”
He also noted that people experiencing hearing loss often struggle to understand conversations, frequently ask others to repeat themselves, and require others to speak more clearly and loudly. They may also feel the need to turn up the volume on televisions and radios, sit very close to speakers, and rely on lip-reading during conversations.
Babarinde underscored the urgent need for the government and stakeholders to establish functional national ear and hearing care programs.
He stressed that education and awareness campaigns should be implemented to improve access to hearing care in rural communities while also combating stigma and misconceptions about hearing loss.
“There is a need to strengthen national policies to integrate hearing care into primary healthcare. The government and stakeholders are advised to invest in assistive devices to ensure that hearing aids, cochlear implants, and other technologies are available and affordable for those in need,” he stated.
Expressing concern over the number of people who may have some degree of hearing loss without realizing it, Babarinde emphasized the importance of awareness and early detection.
“Awareness of ear problems that lead to hearing loss, along with early detection and appropriate care, will benefit society. Perfect hearing is essential for effective communication, quality education, gainful employment, and good interpersonal relationships within the community,” he said.
He further noted that addressing hearing loss requires significant efforts to ensure access to quality ear and hearing care for all. He urged individuals to be informed about the symptoms, causes, and effects of hearing loss and to adopt proactive health-seeking behaviors.
