Are Noise-Cancelling Headphones Contributing to Young People's Hearing Problems?

G. Mudalige, Jadetimes Staff

G. Mudalige is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Technology & Innovation

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Image Source : AFP

The widespread use of noise-cancelling headphones has revolutionized how people experience sound, offering a sense of tranquility in an increasingly noisy world. However, concerns are emerging about whether prolonged use of these devices may be linked to auditory processing issues, particularly among young people. With more individuals reporting difficulties in distinguishing sounds in noisy environments, experts are calling for further research into the potential effects of noise isolation on the brain's ability to process sound.

One such case is Sophie, a 25-year-old administration assistant from London, who was diagnosed with auditory processing disorder (APD) after struggling to comprehend sounds in everyday environments. Despite having normal hearing, she often found herself unable to identify the source of a noise or focus on speech in crowded places. Sophie, like many young people, regularly wears noise-cancelling headphones for up to five hours a day, leading her audiologist to question whether excessive reliance on these devices may have contributed to her condition.

APD is a neurological disorder in which the brain struggles to interpret sound, even when hearing function is normal. It is commonly found in individuals who are neurodivergent, have suffered a brain injury, or experienced middle-ear infections as children. However, a growing number of cases do not fit these traditional categories, prompting audiologists to investigate whether external factors, such as noise-cancelling headphones, could be influencing auditory development. The issue is becoming more apparent, with multiple NHS audiology departments in the UK reporting an increase in young people seeking help for hearing difficulties, only to find their auditory function intact while their ability to process sound is impaired.

Experts suggest that prolonged use of noise-cancelling headphones may create a "false auditory environment", conditioning the brain to filter out background noise entirely rather than learning to manage and process it. This can make it difficult for individuals to distinguish relevant sounds in real-world settings, such as conversations in crowded rooms or alarms in public spaces. Claire Benton, vice-president of the British Academy of Audiology, warns that high-level listening skills continue developing into the late teens, and if young people primarily rely on noise isolation during this critical period, it could potentially delay their ability to process speech and noise effectively.

Despite these concerns, noise-cancelling headphones are not without benefits. Their ability to reduce exposure to harmful high-frequency sounds can protect long-term hearing health, and they are particularly valuable for individuals who experience sensory sensitivities or anxiety in noisy environments. Many models also feature transparency modes, allowing some ambient noise to pass through while still minimizing overwhelming sound levels. However, experts recommend limiting headphone usage, incorporating background noise into daily life, and engaging in auditory training exercises to strengthen the brain’s natural sound-processing abilities.

The lack of comprehensive research on this topic highlights the need for further investigation into the potential long-term effects of noise isolation. Dr. Amjad Mahmood, head of audiology at Great Ormond Street Hospital, emphasizes the growing demand for APD assessments, particularly among school-aged children struggling to hear speech in noisy classrooms. With more young people opting to watch videos with subtitles, even when audio is available, and wearing noise-cancelling headphones for extended periods, the shift in auditory habits could have significant implications for future generations.

While noise-cancelling headphones are not definitively proven to cause APD, their overuse may contribute to weakened auditory processing skills, making it harder for individuals to adapt to real-world sound environments. As technology continues to shape the way people interact with sound, striking a balance between noise control and auditory stimulation will be essential in maintaining healthy hearing and cognitive processing.