Music to Define a Generation: Factors Associated With Hearing Protection Use at Music Venues

Abstract

Objectives Excessive noise levels in music venues can negatively impact long-term hearing health. We investigated the prevalence, characteristics, and factors associated with hearing protection use among music event attendees. Study Design Cross-sectional cohort. Methods Adult participants (2,352) from online music forums completed a questionnaire assessing attendance at music events, hearing protection (HP) usage, type, and frequency, along with history of hearing-related symptoms and medical history. Primary outcome was defined as HP use at music venues. Data were characterized using descriptive statistics, paired t tests, and Pearson's chi-squared tests. Multivariable regression analysis elicited factors associated with any and regular HP use. Results Our 2,352 respondents were primarily male (61.3%) and on average 28.7 years old (SD = 7.0). Of the respondents, 60.6% reported using HP, and 33.2% reported regular use; high-fidelity earplugs were the most used HP type (57.5%). HP use was associated with significantly fewer reports of negative hearing-related symptoms. In a multivariable regression model, factors associated with less likelihood of HP use included being female (vs male, OR = 0.74, CI = [0.55–0.98]), less concern about effects on hearing (OR = 0.53, CI = [0.45–0.61]), and pop music event attendance (vs EDM, OR = 0.40, CI = [0.22–0.72]). Increased attendance frequency in the past year was associated with higher likelihood of regular HP use (OR = 1.07, CI = [1.04–1.09]). Decreased attendance duration was associated with decreased likelihood (OR = 0.09, CI = [0.03–0.33]). Conclusion HP use prevalence was high, while frequent use remained low. HP use was significantly associated with reduced hearing-related symptoms. Demographic factors, otologic symp-tomology, and attendance-related characteristics were associated with HP use. These findings may guide interventions to increase adoption at music venues. Level of Evidence 4