2022 NHCA Annual Virtual Conference

Hearing loss and damage to the auditory system as a result of loud sound exposure is well documented. Musicians are particularly at risk for hearing loss and damage to the auditory system and are a unique population in which the detriments of this damage affect not only their quality of life, but also their careers. University faculty, staff, and student musicians are uniquely situated to be educated on the risks of music-induced hearing loss (MIHL) as well as preventative measures for healthy hearing behaviors. In this study, the hearing health behaviors of university student, faculty, and staff musicians will be surveyed. Survey topics include awareness of MIHL in musicians, use of hearing protection devices, symptoms of hearing loss, loud sound level exposure history, as well as education on the effects of loud sound levels and hearing health. Analysis of survey results will reveal whether this population will require hearing conservation education as well as potentially determine if the hearing health behaviors of faculty and staff influence the behaviors of students.