Usage of Earphone and Its Impact on Hearing Health Among College Students

Author: Preethi , Deepa , Aby Thankachan , Helen Elizabeth , Rekha , Narmatha , Saraswathi , Samrutha

Published On: 2026-05-30

DOI: https://doi.org/10.70127/irjedt.vol.9.issue05.773

Theheadphone usage is a significant risk factor for hearing loss, especially among college students. Aims and objectives: The increasing use of personal audio devices has raised concerns about hearing health, particularly among college students. This study investigates earphone usage patterns, awareness of safe listening practices, and associated hearing risks among college students. This descriptive study aimed to assess earphone usage and its impact on hearing health among college students. Materials and method: A quantitative approach with a descriptive research design was adopted and totally 250 students from nursing, allied health science and occupational therapy were selected by using convenient sampling technique. Hearing capacity test was done through hearWHO mobile application followed by data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings suggest out of 250 students, 70% was female students, 230 (92 %) were used earphones. 174 (69.6%) was used Bluetooth. 136 (54.4%) were used < 1 hour duration daily. whereas 60 % of students experienced at least one symptom on using earphones. Out of 250 students, 3 (1.2%) students had Normal hearing capacity, 39 (15.6%) students had Mild impact of hearing capacity, 121 (48.4%) students had Moderate impact of hearing capacity, 80 (32%) students had Severe impact of hearing capacity, 7 (2.8%) had High impact of hearing capacity. This variation suggests that while some students maintain good hearing, others may already be at risk of hearing impairment. Conclusion: The study highlights the need for increased awareness and early intervention strategies to prevent hearing impairment among college students. Keywords: Earphone usage, impact, noise induced hearing loss, safe listening practices, hearing capacity