Doctors should warn against hearing loss

NASHVILLE, July 14 (UPI) -- The media is the most informative source about hearing loss prevention and the healthcare community is the least likely source, U.S. researchers found.

Study leader Dr. Roland Eavey of the University of Vanderbilt in Nashville said the study participants said they would change behavior if a healthcare professional alerted them to the problem.

"Since our last study we have learned that enough people still are not yet aware, (that loud music or sound can permanently damage hearing) but that more are becoming aware, especially through the help of the media," Eavey said in a statement.

"We have learned that the audience does use public health behaviors like sunscreen, designated drivers and seat belts and that the healthcare community is the least likely source of informing patients about hearing loss, so we have an excellent opportunity to start educating patients."

Doctors can alert patients that hearing loss from excessive sound volume is preventable but once it happens, the loss is permanent and cannot be reversed, Eavey said.

The findings are published in the journal Pediatrics.