Earphone usage and its implication on health among college going students in Puducherry: A cross sectional study

Abstract

Introduction: Popularity of using earphones/headphones is being increased dramatically over a period of time. Sound exposure for longer duration will affect the ear and will not recover soon. Objectives:To study the sociodemographic profile and the pattern of usage of earphones during day, night, while driving and sleep & to determine the impact on hearing. Materials and Methods: A cross – sectional study was conducted in a private engineering college, from February to April 2019.Data was collected from 200 students using a pre-designed closed end questionnaire. Result: Most of the students especially day scholars (66%) are using earphones when compared with the hosteler (34%). Female usage of earphone (62%) is more when compared with the male(38%). 17% have prior ear associated disease and still continuing the usage, and 12% reported accident on usage of earphones. Conclusion: In order to safeguard the future generation proper health education and attention must be sought there to.