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The great irony of being a musician is that the sound produced- the very essence of the musical experiences-represents a long-term health risk to the artist. This overview examines the lack of sufficient evidence-based studies on this at-risk population, which is particularly important in light of the low level of compliance to hearing-loss prevention programs among musicians. The review explores the number of musicians at risk, the five most common types of hearing loss affecting them, and the necessary components of a hearing-loss prevention program, including measurement, education, and acoustic modifications to the work environment. Hearing protection devices designed specifically for performing musicians are explored in depth, including the proper use of spectrum-neutral high-fidelity earplugs with in-ear monitoring systems as tools to control sound levels without detracting from the quality of musical performance. Med Probí Perform Art 2009; 24:103-107.
The risk of hearing loss as a result of exposure to unsafe loudness levels in the music industry has been well documented. Despite a few conflicting studies on the issue of what is now referred to as music-induced hearing loss (MIHL), most investigators have agreed that there is a risk of MIHL for both acoustic and amplified instruments.1-4
The purpose of this review is not to argue whether or not live music is responsible for damage to the hearing mechanism of countless performers; rather, it is to investigate the research regarding MIHL beyond the debate of its actual existence. This review discusses the number of people who may be at risk, other types of hearing disorders caused by overexposure in addition to or besides actual loss of hearing, the types of preventative tools and prevention strategies that are currently being employed, and the lack of evidence-based research demonstrating the success of these strategies.
MUSICIANS AT RISK
The subject of MIHL presents many challenges. For instance, there has been a surprising scarcity of research on strategies for hearing loss prevention and its effectiveness, especially considering the potential size of the population that may be at risk. While there is no accurate measurement of the number of at-risk musicians, one source available for riie number of musicians is the US Census. The following are the total numbers for the occupation category "musicians and composers" as published by...