dc.description.abstract | While earplugs have been identified as
an effective way for patrons of loud
music venues to mitigate the risks
from noise exposure, such hearing
protectors are rarely worn. Time and experience may
change that, though, we showed in this study.
We gave regular music patrons (clubbers) earplugs
and explored their experience of wearing them.
By the end of the 16-week study, most participants
had developed a positive view of the hearing protectors.
The results are encouraging because they suggest
that experience with earplugs can lead to sustained
positive attitudes toward the devices, which
has the potential to reduce the chance of future hearing
loss and tinnitus in this at-risk group of music
venue patrons. | en_US |